Which Sun-Care Format Fits Global Export Best — Lotion, Spray, or Stick

Introduction — A Changing Global Sun-Care Landscape

Global demand for sun-care products keeps growing as shoppers learn more about UV harm and premature aging risks. Shippers and OEM/ODM makers now tackle new issues: Which type moves easiest across borders? Which matches the feel that different areas want?

The top three application methods — lotion, spray, and stick — each handle strength, price, and rules in their own style. Grasping these distinctions lets creators pick ingredients that endure various climates and follow standards from the EU to Asia.

1. Sunscreen Lotion — Versatile and Widely Accepted

Structure and Formulation

Lotion forms the base of the international sun-care industry. It combines water and oil into a gentle emulsion that glides on evenly.

Main UV filters often include:

• BFP-SP EHT (Ethylhexyl Triazone) — a strong UVB blocker providing high E1/1 value (> 1500 at 314 nm), achieving SPF 50 + with small amounts.
• BFP-SP DHHB (Diethylamino Hydroxybenzoyl Hexyl Benzoate) — a UVA protector added to lasting day creams for anti-aging defense and great mixability.

Together, these create broad-spectrum coverage ideal for recipes aligning with the EU Cosmetics Regulation and FDA rules.

OEM Advantages

• Fits smoothly into existing filling and emulsification lines, cutting down on new gear needs. Simple upgrade.
• Easy to adjust for private-label changes (feel, aroma, SPF options).
• Popular in Asia and Europe for routine skincare items.

Export Considerations

• Lotion mixtures could demand cold-chain storage on lengthy transport paths. This keeps them fresh.
• Final items need stability and microbial tests before getting export clearance.

2. Sunscreen Spray — Fast Application and Outdoor Demand

Structure and Performance

Spray styles produce a thin mist that spreads over wide zones quickly — suited for outdoors, athletics, and household use.

They generally blend oil-soluble UV filters with dispersants for steady release:

• BFP-SP S (Tinosorb S) — a broad-spectrum blocker featuring top photostability and teamwork with organic or inorganic types.
• BFP-T10AHS (Titanium Dioxide + Aluminum Hydroxide + Stearic Acid) — a moisture-resistant mineral filter that improves brightness and smoothness in oil formulas.

Benefits for Exporters

• Gives a lightweight texture that draws people in hot or damp zones. It dries fast.
• Delivers even layering and quick touch-ups — a big plus in Western areas.
• Delivers solid production speed on aerosol setups with steady yields.

Compliance and Logistics

• Aerosol goods count as hazardous goods for plane and ship travel and must comply with the EU Aerosol Directive 75/324/EEC.
• Some places require VOC reports and fire-risk tags.
• Increasing call for reef-safe, non-nano sprays in seaside and vacation zones sparks need for zinc oxide or titanium dioxide options.
  

3. Sunscreen Stick — Compact Protection for Travel and Sensitive Skin

Structure and Composition

Sticks are built on a solid wax core that holds active UV filters steady.

They allow precise spreading on exposed areas (nose, cheeks, lips) with no mess — excellent for trip sets and children’s ranges.

One key element is BFP-Z40ST (Zinc Oxide + Silica + Triethoxycaprylylsilane), a nano mineral filter supplying full UVA/UVB coverage, clear look, and soft, non-white residue.

Advantages for OEM Partners

• Stable under heat and humidity, reducing shipping worries. Reliable arrival.
• Skips aerosol curbs and has a lengthy storage life.
• Fits luxury lines stressing clean beauty and reef protection.

Export Positioning

• Favored in Japan and Europe for easy carry.
• Draws stores seeking small, earth-friendly wraps.
• Backs “zero waste” plans with reusable holders.

4. Comparison at a Glance

Tip for buyers: Stick formats offer the highest profit margin per gram of active ingredient due to long shelf life and premium positioning.

5. How to Choose the Right Format for Export

1. Analyze Regional Preferences: Sprays rule in the Americas and Australia, lotions top Asia, while sticks grow in Europe and Japan.
2. Check Regulations: Verify UV filter okay (EHT and Tinosorb S are widely fine; some hit US barriers).
3. Optimize Supply Chain: Select filters suiting your machines and delivery setups. Smart choice.
4. Add Sustainability: Highlight nano mineral grades such as BFP-Z40ST and hydrophobic Titanium Dioxide for environmentally compliant formulations to pull in eco-aware customers.

For OEM projects, BFP advises mixing organic and mineral filters to match SPF value, skin comfort, and regulatory acceptance.

6. BFP New Material — Your Trusted Partner in Sun-Care Manufacturing

Shanghai BFP New Material Co., Ltd. delivers a full lineup for UV filters and sun-care boosters:

• Organic UV Filters: BFP-SP EHT, BFP-SP S, BFP-SP DHHB.
• Mineral UV Filters: BFP-T10AHS, BFP-Z40ST.
• Dispersive Liquids & Whitening Powders for formulation flexibility.

Its GMP-certified factories in Tianjin, Shandong, Jiangsu, and Hubei run on clean energy and strict QC setups to provide dependable, green materials for worldwide OEM work.

The company also offers free samples (freight collect) and technical support for private-label development.

Conclusion — Balancing Performance and Practicality

There is no single winner in sun-care formats.

Lotions remain flexible and affordable, sprays manage large outdoor needs, and sticks deliver worth through high-end ease.

For exporters and OEM buyers, the best strategy is to combine market research, regulatory compliance, and trusted materials from suppliers like Shanghai BFP New Material Co., Ltd. — building sun-care lines that are high-performing, compliant, and ready for global markets.

FAQ — Sun-Care Formats and UV Filters

What is the main difference between chemical and mineral filters?  

Chemical filters absorb UV rays, while minerals like Titanium Dioxide and Zinc Oxide reflect and scatter them.

Can sprays deliver the same SPF as lotions?  

Yes, if proper filter concentration and uniform application are maintained.

Are BFP filters reef-safe and eco-friendly?  

Yes, BFP offers hydrophobic Titanium Dioxide for environmentally compliant formulations.

How do OEM factories test SPF and UVA protection before export?  

They use ISO 24444 and ISO 24442 methods alongside stability and photostability testing.

Which format is most cost-efficient for large-scale production?  

Lotions offer the lowest MOQ and simplest filling process, while sticks achieve higher unit profit in premium segments.