The salt spray stung my eyes, even through the sunglasses. Another day, another clinic-sponsored beach trip, testing out the latest batch of sunscreens. The irony wasn’t lost on me, a dermatologist, baking in the sun for science. This time, though, I was looking forward to something a little less…clinical. Specifically, the Sun Bum Original SPF 30 Spray.

First impressions? The smell. That signature tropical aroma. It’s a hallmark of the brand, and a welcome change from the antiseptic tang of some high-performance sunscreens. Forget the clinical, this one whispers of vacations, surfing, and, dare I say it, fun. But, as always, performance is key.

The label promises non-comedogenic properties, a critical detail for my patients, especially those prone to acne. Clogged pores and sun exposure? A recipe for disaster. After a week of applications, I’m happy to report zero breakouts. That Vitamin E, likely contributing to the “moisturizing” claim, seems to be doing its job. The spray application, though, did feel a touch uneven at times. This is common, really. You can fix this by using a rub-in motion to make sure you’ve covered everything.

Comparing it to the EltaMD UV Clear Broad-Spectrum SPF 46, a go-to for many of my patients with sensitive skin, the Sun Bum feels much, much lighter on the skin. Yes, the EltaMD provides a higher SPF. But Sun Bum feels less like a layer and more like a… well, a beach day. The broad-spectrum protection is solid, blocking both UVA and UVB rays, which is what matters most. That’s the important thing.

Here’s the thing: if you’re the type who remembers to reapply every two hours, is mindful of direct sun exposure, and doesn’t mind a slightly uneven spray, the Sun Bum SPF 30 is an excellent choice for daily wear. I give it a solid recommendation for anyone prioritizing comfort and fragrance over maximum SPF values. Buy it, enjoy it, and remember: reapply, reapply, reapply.