Are Spray Sunscreens Harmful to the Environment? What to Know and Safer Ways to Protect Your Skin

3 minute read

By Jonathan Lee

Quick Answer

Spray sunscreens can negatively impact the environment due to certain chemical UV filters linked to harm in aquatic life and coral reefs, propellants that may contribute to air pollution, and packaging waste. Choosing mineral formulas, avoiding reef-harming filters, using protective clothing, and applying lotions instead of sprays near water can reduce harm while maintaining UV protection [1] [2] .

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Why the Question Matters

Outdoor recreation has surged, and sunscreen use is essential for skin cancer prevention. Yet what washes off our skin or sprays into the air can reach rivers, lakes, and oceans, where ingredients interact with sensitive ecosystems. Current science and policy discussions increasingly evaluate the environmental profiles of both chemical and mineral UV filters, as well as the delivery system of sprays themselves [1] [2] .

How Spray Sunscreens May Affect the Environment

1) Chemical UV filters and aquatic life

Evidence reviewed by the U.S. National Academies (summarized by NOAA) indicates that specific chemical UV filters used in some sunscreens can harm aquatic organisms, including corals. The report calls for comprehensive ecological risk assessment across UV filters. Mineral sunscreens (zinc oxide or titanium dioxide without chemical UV filters) are considered to have fewer effects on aquatic organisms, and UV-protective clothing is encouraged as a non-chemical option [1] . Beyond marine systems, research notes UV filters can reach freshwater bodies via wastewater pathways, where conventional treatment may not fully remove them, extending potential exposure to lakes, rivers, and even drinking water sources [2] .

Real-world implication: When spray sunscreen is applied at the beach or pool, overspray may settle on sand or water. Rinsing and swimming can carry filters into surrounding waters, adding to environmental loads. In wastewater-connected settings, showering after sunscreen use may still allow certain filters to pass through treatment into receiving waters [2] .

2) Aerosol propellants and air quality footprint

Many spray sunscreens use aerosol propellants that can emit volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Some propellants, such as isobutane blends, have been associated with smog formation and global warming potential in consumer aerosol discussions. While one person’s use is small, population-wide use can add up; brands increasingly tout lower-impact propellants to mitigate this footprint. Checking labels for more earth-friendly propellant claims may help reduce air-quality impacts, although third-party verification varies and users should prioritize authoritative environmental criteria where available [3] .

3) Packaging waste and end-of-life

Spray formats often rely on mixed-material aerosol cans and plastic components that can be harder to recycle, especially if local facilities won’t accept pressurized containers or small-format plastics. Improperly discarded packaging can contribute to marine debris if it enters waterways. Users can reduce waste by finishing products fully, following local guidance on aerosol disposal, and opting for refillable or widely recyclable formats when possible [2] .

What the Science Says About Reefs and Aquatic Systems

NOAA summarizes a 2022 National Academies review: specific chemical UV filters in some sunscreens can harm corals and other aquatic organisms, and more comprehensive risk assessment is needed. Mineral sunscreens without chemical UV filters, and UPF-rated clothing, are suggested as better environmental choices where feasible [1] . Broader research shows UV agents enter waters both directly (swimming) and indirectly (wastewater), and may degrade into by-products with additional risks; some nanoparticle mineral filters can form reactive oxygen species under certain conditions, though coatings and formulations aim to limit this. Wastewater plants may not fully remove all UV agents, contributing to environmental persistence [2] .

Actionable Ways to Reduce Environmental Impact Without Sacrificing Protection

1) Choose lower-impact protection

– Prefer **mineral formulations** using non-nano or coated zinc oxide and/or titanium dioxide when suitable for your skin and activity, and verify the ingredient list. Mineral options are considered to have fewer effects on aquatic organisms compared with chemical UV filters, per NOAA’s summary of current evidence [1] . – Consider **UPF clothing** (long-sleeve rash guards, hats, leggings). This reduces total sunscreen needed and avoids ingredient release into water [1] . – If you use chemical sunscreens, avoid applying just before entering natural waters; allow time for absorption away from shore, and consider lotion formats to curb overspray.

2) Apply smarter to limit overspray

– Apply sprays **indoors or away from shore** when possible, and avoid windy conditions to reduce drift into sand and water. – Spray onto your hands first, then rub on skin to minimize airborne loss and inhalation risk. This also improves coverage and reduces product waste. – Use the **minimal effective amount** and reapply as directed based on time and water exposure rather than frequent top-ups near the waterline.

3) Reduce VOC and packaging footprint

– When selecting a spray, look for brands that disclose **lower-impact propellants** or alternative delivery systems; be aware that such claims vary in verification. Some companies publicly discuss ultra-low global warming potential propellants to lessen aerosol impacts [3] . – Prefer **pump sprays or lotions** packaged in readily recyclable containers per your local program. – Dispose of empty aerosols according to local guidelines; never puncture. Where recycling isn’t accepted, ensure safe trash disposal to prevent littering.

4) Time and place matter

– Before snorkeling, surfing, or visiting reef areas, plan to use **UPF clothing and mineral lotions** applied well before water entry. This approach aligns with current guidance emphasizing reduced chemical UV filter release near sensitive ecosystems [1] . – After outdoor activity, shower at home or in facilities connected to effective wastewater treatment when possible, recognizing that treatment may not fully remove UV agents but can still lower immediate concentrations in nearshore zones [2] .

Step-by-Step: A Lower-Impact Sun-Protection Routine

  1. Plan coverage first. Pack UPF clothing (hat, long-sleeve top, neck gaiter). This reduces the amount of sunscreen needed while maintaining high protection levels [1] .
  2. Pick products. Select a mineral lotion with zinc oxide and/or titanium dioxide. If you prefer a spray for convenience, choose one with transparent propellant disclosures and consider using it away from shore. Confirm water resistance based on activity [1] [3] .
  3. Apply correctly. For sprays, spritz into your hands and rub onto skin to avoid drift. For lotions, apply a generous, even layer 15 minutes before sun exposure. Reapply every two hours and after swimming or sweating.
  4. Be water-wise. In reef areas, rely more on clothing and mineral lotions. Avoid spraying near the waterline and in windy conditions to limit environmental dispersion [1] .
  5. Dispose responsibly. Finish containers fully. Follow local rules for aerosol disposal and recycling. Keep empty packaging out of beach bins that can overflow and spill into waterways [2] .

Common Questions

Are all spray sunscreens equally harmful?

No. Environmental impact varies by ingredients, propellants, and packaging. Current evidence highlights concerns with specific chemical UV filters and recommends broader risk assessment, while mineral options are considered to have fewer effects on aquatic organisms. Delivery via aerosol can add VOC-related and drift concerns; careful application can mitigate some of these issues [1] [3] [2] .

Is “reef safe” a regulated term?

In many markets, “reef safe” is not strictly regulated, and formulations can vary. Because authoritative reviews still call for comprehensive risk assessments across UV filters, it’s prudent to combine strategies: UPF clothing, mineral formulas when feasible, and mindful application away from sensitive waters [1] .

What about nanoparticle minerals?

Some research indicates that under certain conditions, nanoparticle TiO2 can generate reactive oxygen species and form agglomerates with potential toxicity to biota; coatings and formulation strategies aim to mitigate these effects. Consumers seeking to avoid such uncertainties may choose non-nano or coated mineral options and rely on clothing to further reduce usage [2] .

Practical Buying and Use Checklist

Key Takeaway

Spray sunscreens are not universally “bad,” but their environmental impact can be higher due to ingredient release into aquatic systems, aerosol VOCs, and packaging challenges. You can significantly lower your footprint by favoring mineral lotions and UPF clothing, applying away from water, minimizing overspray, and disposing of containers responsibly-while still protecting your skin effectively [1] [2] .

References

[1] NOAA (2024). Skincare Chemicals and Coral Reefs. [2] Chatzigianni et al. (2022). Environmental impacts due to the use of sunscreen products. [3] Blue Lizard Sunscreen (2021). 9 Things to Know Before You Buy Spray Sunscreen.

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Contributor

Jonathan Lee is a passionate writer with a keen eye for uncovering emerging trends and thought-provoking discussions. With a background in journalism and digital media, she has spent years crafting compelling content that informs and engages readers. Her expertise spans a variety of topics, from culture and technology to business and social movements, always delivering insightful perspectives with clarity and depth. When she's not writing, Tessa enjoys exploring new coffee shops, reading historical fiction, and hiking scenic trails in search of inspiration.