Spray sunscreen works as well as lotion for kids

What the research found

No trials comparing how well spray and lotion sunscreens protect children's skin were found. The one trial found tested a tear-free SPF50 product for eye and skin irritation, not for how well it prevents sunburn. It reported an estimated eye irritation score of 0.0 for the lotion and 3.6 for the spray lotion, though no eyelid inflammation, tearing or conjunctival irritation was seen in human eye studies (2008).

Australian regulator guidance says aerosol sunscreens are mixed with propellant, so they are more dilute than the same volume of lotion. You need to use more to get the same coverage. About a third of an average can is needed to cover the whole body once.

The same guidance says even light wind can mean most of the spray misses the skin. It advises holding the can 10 to 15 cm away and spraying until the skin looks and feels wet. It also says not to spray directly onto the face, because of the risk of accidental inhalation.

What it doesn’t mean

• This does not mean spray is unsafe or useless. It means it is easier to under-apply, and the guidance says most people already do not use enough sunscreen.
• Sunscreen should not be the only protection. Child health guidance also recommends clothing, a hat, shade and sunglasses, and says kids can burn in as little as 10 minutes.
• Patch test any new sunscreen on a small area of skin, especially for young children. For babies under 6 months, sunscreen use should be minimised, so check with a healthcare professional. Talk to a pharmacist or GP if your child has a skin reaction.