All About Sunscreen Machines: Is It Recommended For Redheads?

We know sunscreen is the number one way to protect your skin and prevent damage from harmful UV rays, but for most people, applying (and re-applying) sunscreen is half the battle. Well, now there’s a new option. Sunscreen machines are popping up at hotels and resorts around the world. 

These sunscreen machines, typically found near beaches and pools, allow guests to choose their height and preferred SPF, step in for a quick spray, and step out. The most popular brand, SnappyScreen, is found at major hotel chains like the Four Seasons, Rosewood, Fairmont, and Marriott. According to the Snap Wellness website, the sunscreen in these machines is free of alcohol, oxybenzone, fragrance, parabens, and para-aminobenzoic acid. They also assure that the sunscreen is reef-safe, eco-friendly, hypoallergenic, a safe and effective sun protection solution, and water/sweat resistant.

Are sunscreen machines safe — especially for redheads?

SnappyScreens offers SPF 15, SPF 30, and SPF 40, which isn’t a vast range, but it does offer two options, SPF 30 and above, which we know is the minimum necessary for proper sun protection. There doesn’t seem to be much research on how effective these sunscreen machines are, but we must assume that they have been tested and approved for public use. Our biggest concern would be coverage. Spraying sunscreen over your swimsuit might expose all the spots, but what about when your swimsuit shifts? Does wind impact this machine? And is there room for human error? Machine-operated spray, like used in a spray tanning booth, isn’t accommodating for every body shape and size.  

We love seeing more options that encourage sunscreen use and make it more accessible, so we’re pretty happy about this. But just be sure you’re taking proper precautions when using one. If you see a sunscreen machine on vacation this summer, try it out.

But we suggest going through it twice to ensure you get good coverage or applying your sunscreen and using this for an added layer of protection. 

Do your research:

Check out TikTok videos, like the below, that showcase the SPF booths and how they work: 

@snapwellness

Meet SnappyScreen! #trending #sunscreen #fyp #tiktoktravel #travelthrowback #viral #foryou

♬ Sunset Lover – Petit Biscuit

Here are some pros + cons from our research: 

Here are some pros and cons of using sunscreen machines for redheads:

Pros

1. Convenience: Sunscreen machines provide easy access to sunscreen in locations where people might need to remember or run out of their own. This can be particularly helpful for redheads who need frequent reapplication due to their fair skin.

2. Encourages Use: Having sunscreen readily available encourages regular use, which is crucial for redheads to protect against UV damage.

3. Consistent Application: These machines often dispense a measured amount of sunscreen, promoting consistent and adequate application.

4. Hygienic: Automated sunscreen dispensers can be more hygienic than shared bottles, reducing the risk of cross-contamination.

5. Public Awareness: The presence of sunscreen machines can raise awareness about the importance of sun protection, particularly for those with sensitive skin, like redheads.

Cons

1. Quality and Type of Sunscreen: The sunscreen provided by machines may not always be the preferred type or quality (e.g., specific SPF level, water resistance, or formulation for sensitive skin) that redheads might need.

2. Cost: Depending on the location, there might be a fee to use the sunscreen machine, which could deter some people from using it regularly.

3. Availability: Sunscreen machines may only be widely available in some areas, limiting their usefulness.

4. Maintenance and Refills: Machines require regular maintenance and refilling to ensure they are stocked with sunscreen. Poorly maintained machines can become unreliable.

5. Accessibility: In some cases, the placement of these machines might not be easily accessible to everyone, such as children or individuals with disabilities.

For redheads, sunscreen machines offer a convenient and encouraging way to maintain sun protection. However, factors to consider include the variability in the type and availability of sunscreen, potential costs, and maintenance issues.

Would you try one if you saw one?

Rock it like a Redhead! 

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