With More Outings Near Home... Buying Sun Spray Instead of Sunscreen

[Asia Economy Reporter Yujin Cho] As outings near home have increased due to the novel coronavirus infection (COVID-19), sun spray or sun stick products that can be easily sprayed or applied without using hands are gaining popularity instead of traditional sun creams.

According to Olive Young on the 15th, from the beginning of last month when the heatwave started (June 1 to 30), sales of stick or spray-type sunscreens increased by 24% and 14% respectively compared to the same period last year. Sales of cream or lotion-type sunscreens showed single-digit growth rates and were relatively sluggish. During a similar period on Auction, only spray-type sunscreens increased significantly by 219%, while sun cream sales grew by just over 2%. Considering the increase in product numbers, this is essentially stagnant.

June, when the UV index is highest during the year, is usually a period of rapid increase in sunscreen sales, but this year the situation is somewhat different. Due to the impact of COVID-19, outings themselves have decreased, causing sales of some products like sun cream to decline or remain similar to last year, while sales of quick and convenient sun sprays or sun sticks have relatively increased. An industry insider explained, "After COVID-19, with the 'untact' (contactless) trend leading to longer times spent indoors, demand for sunscreens itself has decreased, and there is a higher preference for products that can be used hygienically."

Currently, top-selling items include Plantnara Oxygen Water Waterproof Sun Spray, IOPE UV Shield Sun Stick, and AHC Natural Perfection Pro Shield Sun Stick. An Auction representative said, "Sun sprays are gaining attention even during the COVID-19 era because they can be quickly and easily applied during short-distance outings and reapplied anytime, anywhere with ease," adding, "As wearing masks makes it difficult to frequently reapply sunscreen when going out, products that can be applied conveniently without touching hands are popular."

Besides sun sticks and sun sprays, products such as lotions and foundations that can be applied conveniently without touching hands are also popular. L&P Cosmetic's color brand Makeheal launched the 'OnePL Foundeizer,' which features an applicator with a handle allowing use without getting the contents on hands. Mentholatum's 'Relaxing Roll-On Lotion,' equipped with a rolling plate to easily spread on the skin without hand contact, has been gaining popularity since its launch, recording double-digit sales growth.