Sunscreen sprays offer handy and effective sun protection – provided they’re applied right. Here’s how:
Sunscreen sprays offer handy and effective sun protection – provided they’re applied right. Here’s how:
1 USE ENOUGH
For traditional sunscreen lotions and creams, you need a shot-glass-sized amount on your whole body for adequate protection against UV rays – it’s the same for sprays. Since you can’t gauge how much sunscreen comes out of a spray can, it’s important to hold the spray for at least four to six seconds on one area to ensure there’s enough to shield your skin, explains Dr Low Chai Ling, medical director at The Sloane Clinic.
2 RUB IT IN
A spray-on sunscreen is more likely to miss certain spots, and tends to be more concentrated in some areas (like where you started spraying) than others. Rubbing in the sunscreen will ensure moreeven protection. Also, shake the can well before application and hold it 10cm to 15cm away when spraying.
3 DON’T USE IT NEAR AN OPEN FLAME
Open flames and alcohol – not a good mix. So if your sunscreen has alcohol in it, avoid applying it near candles or fire (like at a barbecue).
Orbis UV Cut Sunscreen Cool Shower SPF50/ PA++++, $26.
This delivers a cool treat by supposedly lowering skin temperature (reportedly by 5 deg C). Sebumabsorbing powder keeps the skin fresh and shinefree all day, while hydrating fruit ingredients such as kiwi extract, lemon juice and lime juice help keep the skin moisturised.
La Roche-Posay Anthelios Ultralight Invisible Face Mist SPF50+, $26.90.
No kidding, this is the lightest sunscreen spray we’ve tried. It leaves no white cast (just a light, dewy sheen) and sinks into skin within seconds. Antioxidants such as vitamin E and baicalin (a medicinal herb) help block infrared rays and pollutants.
Bottega Verde Sol Protezione+ Antioxidant Protective Spray Lotion SPF50, $42.90.
This affords many skincare benefits. Antiin flammatory and antioxidant liquorice aids in skin healing, brightening and spot-fighting, while sunflower extracts are said to repel UV rays and protect skin. It goes on white, but turns clear when patted in.
