I Asked a Dermatologist If Spray Sunscreen Really Works—Here’s What She Said

If you've never tried to apply sunscreen to my eight-year-old son before he goes to camp, well, you've had an easier summer than I have. (He even whines loudly about whitecast . One of the hazards of having a beauty-editor mom, I suppose.)

Then again, perhaps you have your own squirmy little one who needs UV protection during the day, and isn't quite having it. And, let's face it: Even as adults, reapplying SPF every two hours—like we're all supposed to be doing, in case you haven't heard—can be messy and, frankly, a little loathesome.

For all of these scenarios, I've always thought spray sunscreen seems like a too-good-to-be-true solution. It's quick, it's cooling, there's a Skylar formula I'm obsessed with that smells like cotton candy—and even my son doesn't meet a spray sunscreen with much disgust. Minor protest, maybe, but he's far more chill with a quick mist than a drippy lotion rub-down.

So, is a spray too good to be true? The good news is, it can work; the bad news is, most people don't apply it quite right. Enter board-certified dermatologist Marisa Garshick, MD , who says you can go ahead and spray your way to sun safety—provided you follow these 4 tips.

1. Don't ditch lotion sunscreen completely—use sprays strategically

Spray sunscreen can absolutely provide effective protection, but there's one important caveat: You have to apply enough of it. "While spray sunscreen is an effective option, you must apply enough for it to be effective," says Dr. Garshick.

Because it can be harder to judge how much product you're applying with a spray, Dr. Garshick recommends using a traditional lotion or cream sunscreen when possible to ensure thorough coverage, then reaching for a spray sunscreen for convenient reapplication throughout the day.

2. Apply enough spray sunscreen that your skin looks shiny

The biggest mistake people make with spray sunscreen? Not using enough. A quick spritz may feel like coverage, but it likely won't deliver the SPF protection listed on the label.

"To achieve the SPF listed on the label, you must apply enough spray sunscreen," Garshick emphasizes. Her trick: Spray generously until the skin has an even, visible sheen, then rub it in to ensure uniform coverage. As she puts it: "If you are glistening, then you are listening."

3. Don't forget to rub it in—and watch for missed spots

Unlike perfume, spray sunscreen isn't meant to disappear into thin air. After spraying, massage it into the skin to help ensure even coverage and avoid patchy protection.

Dr. Garshick says commonly missed areas include the ears, tops of the feet, back of the neck, and scalp. And while spray formulas are convenient for the body, don't spray sunscreen directly onto your face. Instead, spray it into your palms first, then gently press it onto your face.

4. Choose the right formula for your skin and your activities

When shopping for a spray sunscreen, Dr. Garshick recommends looking for a broad-spectrum formula with SPF 30 or higher. If you'll be swimming or sweating, choose a water-resistant option.

For sensitive skin, she recommends considering a mineral spray sunscreen, which is less likely to irritate. She also suggests looking for formulas with ingredients that address your skin's needs, such as hydrating ingredients for dry skin.