Sunscreen is available in multiple formats, including lotions and sprays.
Lotions and sprays can be effective if used properly.
However, applying enough spray to all needed areas can be difficult.
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Ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun can cause painfulsunburnand lead to skin cancer.
Sunscreencan also help prevent signs of premature skin aging, including wrinkles and age spots.
It is important to wear sunscreen daily, regardless of the time of year or weather.
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Sunscreen Spray vs.
Lotion
The key to both sunscreen lotion andsprayis applying enough of the product.
With both formats, it is common to use too little, reducing their effectiveness.
This is particularly true of sprays.
Using spray or lotion depends on personal preference and which part of the body you apply it to.
Choose one with a high SPFuse it as directedto ensure adequate coverage.
What Makes an Effective Sunscreen?
Effective sunscreens protect against both UVA (ultraviolet A) and UVB (ultraviolet B) rays.
Some sunscreens are a combination of chemical and physical types.
If you experience a reaction, switch to a sunscreen with a different active ingredient.
Are Both Sunscreen Types Safe to Use?
The standards for OTC sunscreen products are very high and based on scientific evidence.
These include the following.
It just means further investigation has been determined to be warranted.
This is especially important if using the product on children.
Inhaling ingredients and propellants when applying spray sunscreen is a safety concern that is under review.
2022;97(2):204-222. doi:10.1016/j.abd.2021.05.012.
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Straightforward answers to your burning sunscreen questions.
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