Different types of sunscreen—and how to apply them correctly

May 5, 2026

Key takeaways:

No matter what type of sunscreen you use, it should be broad spectrum with SPF 30+.
Lotion is the most common sunscreen, but you can also use sprays, powders, sticks, creams, gels and even wipes.
Make sure you apply on all exposed areas of your skin, including scalp, ears, hands and feet.

Gone are the days when lotion was the only form of sunscreen. Now there are a variety of methods to apply sunscreen—including sprays, powders and sticks. But are all these methods effective at protecting your skin and reducing your risk of سرطان الجلد? Let’s break down the different methods and tips on application.

What sunscreen should I use?

No matter what type of sunscreen you use, it should be broad spectrum with SPF 30+. Broad spectrum means it protects against both UVA and UVB rays (UVA rays may also damage your skin’s DNA, UVB rays primarily cause sunburn; overexposure to either can cause skin cancer). Also look for water and sweat resistant sunscreen if you plan to be active, sweat or get in the water. Make sure the sunscreen is not expired as its effectiveness declines past the expiration date.

How much sunscreen do I need?

One benefit to using sunscreen lotion is that it’s easier to eyeball that you’re using enough sunscreen. Most adults need at least an ounce of sunscreen—about the amount a shot glass would hold—to cover exposed skin.

What are the different types of sunscreen?

While lotion is the most common sunscreen, you can now find sprays, powders, sticks, creams, gels and even wipes. Some people prefer one type over another, or parents may find that children are more cooperative with certain types. As long as the sunscreen is broad spectrum with SPF 30+ and you reapply every two hours, any of these types should work, but there are tips to make sure you are applying most effectively.

What are the most effective ways to apply different types of sunscreen?

The type of sunscreen you choose to apply often comes down to personal preference, your plans for the day or the areas of your body you’re applying the sunscreen. Sprays and sticks are often used by parents on fidgety kids or when reapplying at the beach or at the pool. Sprays can also be helpful to cover hard-to-reach areas like the center of your back if no one is around to help you.

Make sure you apply on all exposed areas of your skin, including scalp, ears, hands and feet. Ask a friend to apply in the center of your back if you can’t reach. And don’t forget to reapply every two hours or after sweating or getting in the water.

ال الأكاديمية الأمريكية للأمراض الجلدية (AAD) cautions that when using a spray, it can be difficult to know if enough is being applied. AAD advises holding the nozzle close to the skin and spraying generously until the skin glistens, then rubbing the spray in to make sure all exposed skin is covered. It’s best to avoid applying sunscreen with sprays around the face. Avoid using sprays on windy days when it’s harder to direct the spray.

For stick sunscreen, AAD recommends applying four passes back and forth for each area of skin to make sure you are applying enough. Stick sunscreen can be especially helpful for applying around the eyes or on the scalp.

Powder sunscreen should be used only for reapplication or touch-ups after a lotion or cream has already been applied. It can be hard to apply enough powder sunscreen to fully protect the sun’s harmful rays.

Are there any sunscreen application types that are not recommended?

ال Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved sunscreen lotion, cream, stick, gel, oil, butter, paste, spray and powder to be sold in the United States. Other forms including wipes, towelettes, body washes and shampoos are not currently FDA-approved and may not be as effective at protecting your skin. The AAD does not recommend using sunscreens with insect repellent since sunscreen needs to be re-applied more often than repellent.

Whichever sunscreen application method you choose, the most important thing is to wear it and take other steps to reduce your risk of skin cancer, including avoiding the sun between 10 a.m. – 4 p.m., wearing protecting clothing, avoiding tanning beds and getting an annual skin check.