Spray sunscreen is a popular alternative to traditional lotions, offering quick, mess-free application. This convenience, however, is tied to the product’s aerosol delivery system, which introduces several drawbacks and safety concerns not present in cream or stick formulations. Experts caution against their widespread use because the application method compromises the product’s safety and effectiveness. Issues with spray sunscreens include potential health risks from inhaling the fine mist, compromised sun protection, and physical dangers from the can’s contents.
The Primary Health Risk of Inhalation
The most significant concern unique to spray sunscreens is the risk of inhaling the product’s ingredients. Aerosolization creates a fine mist containing tiny particles easily suspended in the air, making inhalation difficult to avoid during application. Once inhaled, these particles can travel deep into the lungs, potentially causing irritation and respiratory issues. This is worrisome for individuals with pre-existing conditions like asthma, as the ingredients can act as irritants and trigger an attack.
The long-term effects of inhaling common sunscreen components, including mineral ingredients like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, are not fully understood. While these minerals are safe when applied topically, their inhalation risks are under ongoing investigation by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The FDA warns against using these sprays on children, who are prone to squirming and whose developing lungs are vulnerable to irritants. The safest practice is to avoid spraying the product directly onto the face or near the mouths and noses.
The Problem of Uneven Coverage and Efficacy
The convenience of spray sunscreen often leads to a false sense of adequate protection because application is frequently insufficient and uneven. Unlike lotion, which provides a visible layer, the clear mist of an aerosol spray makes it nearly impossible to judge how much product is landing on the skin. Studies show that users often apply far less than the necessary amount, delivering only 20 to 50 percent of the required density to achieve the listed Sun Protection Factor (SPF).
Achieving the promised SPF requires continuous spraying until a visible, wet sheen appears, and the product must still be rubbed in thoroughly. Most users apply a quick spritz and skip the rubbing, resulting in compromised sun protection and missed spots. Environmental factors like wind also reduce efficacy, as a large percentage of the aerosolized sunscreen is blown away before reaching the skin. This loss means the entire body may not receive the uniform layer needed to block harmful ultraviolet radiation.
Fire Hazards and Propellant Safety Concerns
Aerosol spray sunscreens introduce a physical safety risk due to the highly flammable propellants needed to dispense the product. These propellants are often volatile hydrocarbons, such as butane, propane, and isobutane. Product labels contain warnings against using the spray near open flames, sparks, or intense heat sources.
The flammability hazard is not limited to the moment of application; the risk can persist even after the product has been applied and the skin feels dry. Documented incidents show that residue on the skin ignited when the person came into contact with a flame, such as lighting a cigarette or standing near a grill. This ability of the residue to catch fire highlights a serious danger associated with the aerosol delivery mechanism.