So it turns out you can get cancelled for more than just your old tweets. Dermatologist Natasha Cook is taking aim at one particular form of sunscreen for giving users a “false sense of security” and accusing companies of “preying on consumers with these very deceptive forms of sun protection systems”. The particular product on blast? Spray-on and aerosol sunscreens.
Of course, when selecting an SPF, it’s important to factor in how it will layer underneath makeup or behave on acne-prone skin. But the box-ticking doesn’t end there.
In a post shared on her Instagram, Dr. Cook told followers that when it comes to adequate protection from SPF, “application is everything.”
What are Dr. Cook’s concerns with aerosol sunscreens?
“There is an essential relationship between the thickness of the SPF-based product you put on and the level of SPF protection you actually get,” she explained.
However, in this case, “spray on [sunscreens] are actually tested before the aerosol is added. Yes, before it’s diluted then sold to the consumer,” she said.
In general, Dr. Natasha explained that most people unknowingly underapply SPF. And when combined with a diluted formulation? Users are at risk of applying less than half of what’s required and in some instances, “possibly not even a quarter.”
Throw in a spray nozzle and your sunscreen may “literally blow off so you feel like you are wearing nothing (because you are).”
What comes next? “Risking your skin health when it comes to skin cancer, sun damage, pigmentation and ageing,” she warned.
Check out her complete post below.
What is your favourite SPF? Do you use an aerosol sunscreen?
I use a cream type sunscreen and apply thickly as I am prone to burning quickly
I don’t have a favourite sunscreen right now, but I have used spray sunscreen in the past as it’s so quick to apply
I prefer the spray sunscreen but maybe I need to reevaluate my need for convenience over effectiveness
I use a spray for re-applying sunscreen on my body.
Yeah I’m keen to try the Naked Sunday’s spray for re-applying.
I remember hearing about this awhile back. I’ve never really used aerosol SPF, it’s always been the ones you had to spray or pour out
I prefer the roll on. It’s interesting what they say about the aerosol ones, they should test them after the aerosol is added to get an accurate result.
I don’t use aerosol sunscreens.
I refer this method only purely out of convenience.
I use a stick or powder to re-apply now.
Interesting to know.
Although I have tried an aerosol sunscreen in the past and never went back . I totally agree there isn’t much coverage at all and that the consistency is too thin.
plus the cost is high relative to amount of product
I use a nivea kids roll on SPF 50, fragrance free and effective, not just for kids despite being labelled as kids sunscreen. Handy for travelling too.
That sounds like an easy way to apply especially on kids
Wow, I just used an aerosol based sunscreen today
I wouldn’t want to inhale that anyways. Only using spf rarely, so not really big on them anymore.
When you spray something it does go all over and you would inhale if spraying onto your face. Never thought of that. Not a fan of Spraying sunscreen anywhere really
Good article with valuable information -Thank You
Aerosols are so annoying, who wants to breath that in! Can’t be good for your lungs.
Have never used Spray On Sunscreen have always used Creams always 50 plus.
I’ve never used them. I’ve seen people around me use them and I would see the sunscreen getting sprayed into the wind.
That’s true. A lot is wasted.
I don’t use aerosol sunscreens. I like a lotion type sunscreen for my face and a cream for my body.
Me too, much nicer than aerosol or oil
totally agree
I always get burned when using aerosols
I prefer lotion sunscreen. Never even considered those spray on ones. I don’t like “spray on” anything.
I’ve never used a spray-on sunscreen and won’t now after reading this article.
I once read its like a good spoonful per area, i mean you cant apply that much when you are going to work
I’ve never tried an aerosol sunscreen because I had the same concerns.
I agree, I don’t use this format of sunscreen.
Spray on sunscreen can be useful for a quick top up
Yes and I would use it often in that situation -still better that nothing
I use sunscreens from online stores such as Nourished Life, Flora and Fauna etc. I don’t recall seeing a spray-on sunscreen from those types of retailers.
To be honest I didn’t know there were aerosol sunscreens on the market.
I prefer Nivea.Suitable for whole family.
I don’t like the aerosol ones either
My concern about aerosol sunscreens is breathing it in!
That’s a good point Sydneyswans910
I only use a cream sunscreen
I don’t find this surprising advice. I’m a bit suspicious of spray on sunscreen.
I used to have neutrogena spray on but after it was recalled I have steered away and now use cream.
Wow that is so good to know!!
Never liked the idea of spray on or oil. Prefer a cream
My kids use to like spray-on sunscreen but they always burned when they used it so this makes a lot of sense.
I’m enjoying Bondi Sands’ sunscreen at the moment. Very lightweight and spreads easily.
good to know -I also read an article that said don’t rely totally on make up SPF as often your make up is no thick enough and no testing is done by the appropriate authorities. Use this as an extra cover
Makes sense
They r good to refresh but not for base for me
I’ve always thought the sprays were a bit awkward. I use a cream.
I’ve always thought aerosols weren’t as effective
I use a cream like sunscreen but this seems amazing