From SPF sticks and scalp mists to mineral SPF powders and lip oils, next-gen sun care formats are revolutionising scalp, hair, lip, and skin protection.
As the sun care category evolves, formulation formats are getting smarter, sleeker, and more specialised.
The shift toward sustainability and daily SPF use is not only changing what’s inside the bottle, but what the bottle even looks like.
Following on from the demand for reef-safe and eco-conscious sunscreens, brands are rethinking how sun protection is delivered. SPF is moving into unexpected categories such as hair sunscreens, SPF lip oils, scalp mists, and SPF powders, driven by both consumer convenience and the growing ‘skinification’ of hair and beauty categories. But what’s driving this shift and how are natural ingredients keeping these next-gen formats effective, stable, and sensorially satisfying?
From SPF sticks and scalp sunscreens to lip oils and powders, why SPF formats are diversifying
A new generation of consumers are looking for more than just broad-spectrum protection. They want SPF that fits seamlessly into their existing routines without disrupting texture, finish, or convenience. Some of the formats include:
On-the-go SPF sticks for easy reapplication
Invisible SPF for scalp and hair that won’t weigh down hair
SPF powders for the scalp that mattify without residue
Lip oils with SPF that combine UV protection with a high gloss feel
SPF-enhanced haircare as sun damage becomes a talking point for hair health
This rise in category crossovers is an opportunity for formulators to adapt SPF to formats with very different performance demands and often without the water, emulsifiers, or synthetic bases traditionally used.
This shift not only pushes the boundaries of formulation science but also opens the door to more personalised, versatile, and consumer-friendly sun protection solutions. Throughout this blog, we will explore how these trends are shaping the future of SPF, the technical hurdles formulators face, and the exciting possibilities that lie ahead as sunscreen evolves into a truly multifunctional category.
SPF sticks for face, lips, and body
SPF sticks have become a standout format due to their mess-free application, convenience, and targeted sun care capabilities. They make reapplication easy and enjoyable, especially for delicate areas like under-eyes, noses, and lips that traditional creams might miss. Their compact nature is key, addressing the common issue of forgetting to reapply throughout the day. Some innovations even include dual-ended designs, blending clear SPF with tint or blemish coverage, further blurring the lines between skincare and sun care.
Formulating mineral SPF sticks presents unique challenges as they are typically anhydrous and must maintain their solid structure while melting seamlessly on skin. They also need to carry high levels of UV filters without feeling greasy. Key considerations when formulating include:
A stable carrier with excellent oxidative resistance.
Trend insight
Stick innovations are becoming more sophisticated, with playful shapes, refillable SPF stick cartridges, and biodegradable packaging. Brands like Lancaster and Dr.Jart+ are integrating SPF with colour cosmetics, while eco-conscious brands are embracing plastic-free and refillable options. These advancements make SPF not just functional, but also fun and social-media ready, encouraging better daily SPF habits.
SPF for scalp and hair – sunscreen mists, powders, and sprays
The scalp, often overlooked, is now recognised as a critical area for sun protection. Like other skin, it’s prone to sunburn, irritation, premature aging, and skin cancers. Hair offers some UV protection, but it’s often insufficient for partings, thinning hair, or receding hairlines. Scalp damage can also impact follicle health, leading to dryness and inflammation, making protection essential for both skin and hair longevity.
Consumers are increasingly seeking smarter, skin-like care for their scalp, driving innovation in hydrating scalp mists, SPF scalp sprays, and sunscreen scalp mists. Some formulation considerations include:
Weightless texture
Absorbs quickly without greasy residue or flattening hair.
Non-comedogenic ingredients
Prevents pore clogging and irritation.
Discreet delivery with scalp and hair mist SPF options
Mists and sprays allow for even application without disturbing hairstyles or leaving a white cast.
A natural, plant-derived astringent that tones and refreshes.
Trend insight
The market for scalp sunscreens and SPF for hair and scalp is growing steadily, valued at $200.49 million in 2023 and projected to reach $285.13 million by 2031, in America alone (Verified Market Research).
Products such as Monpure’s invisible SPF 50 face/scalp hybrid and SunBum’s SPF Scalp & Hair Mist SPF 30 are gaining popularity for their dry touch feel. Texture inclusivity is also vital, ensuring products work with diverse hairstyles like braids, wigs, and weaves without disruption. Powder SPF for scalp is becoming a key component of comprehensive sun protection, preserving hair and scalp health from the root up.
Hair sunscreens and the skinification of haircare
Sun protection is extending beyond skincare, into haircare as consumers realise that UV rays can compromise hair’s strength, colour, and vitality. This movement ties into the skinification of scalp and hair, treating the scalp and strands with the same attention as the face. UV radiation causes oxidative damage, breaking down hair’s moisture barrier and increasing porosity and brittleness. This, combined with exposure to saltwater, chlorine, and pollution, can lead to dryness, breakage, and dullness. Colour-treated hair is especially vulnerable, as UV rays accelerate pigment fading.
Haircare is evolving from reactive to proactive, blending UV defence with hydration, colour retention, frizz control, and even bond repair. Key formulation considerations include:
Photostable, non-greasy UV filters that don’t weigh hair down.
Lightweight sunscreen for the hair that won’t disrupt styling.
Compatibility with colour-treated and textured hair.
Hydrating, antioxidant-rich ingredients to counter oxidative stress.
Mimics scalp’s natural sebum and boosts barrier function.
Trend insight
Driven by the skinification trend, consumers are now viewing haircare through a skincare lens, focussing on prevention and long-term health. This has led to new-generation products incorporating skincare ingredients like hyaluronic acid, peptides, ceramides, and SPF for scalp and hair.
SPF lip oils
Lips lack melanin and have thin skin, making them susceptible to sunburn, chapping, and premature aging. SPF lip oils reframe SPF as a desirable beauty experience rather than a chore.
Once a niche hybrid, lip oils are now a beauty mainstay, celebrated for their glossy, non-sticky finish and nourishing benefits. In 2025, SPF lip oils are rapidly gaining traction, offering protection, pigment, and shine in one. SPF lip oils offer a luxurious alternative to traditional waxy lip balms, integrating SPF into beauty routines without compromising on texture or style. Brands like Rodial, Bloomeffects, Naked Sundays, and Mama Sol are leading this trend, transforming lip care into an indulgent, ritual-worthy step. Formulation considerations include:
Non-sticky gloss
Delivers shine and slip without tackiness.
SPF lip balm stick formats without an unpleasant taste
Actives must be masked or neutral to avoid unpleasant flavours.
Shade-inclusive tint
Subtle colour enhances wearability across skin tones.
Calms and soothes the delicate lip area, especially after sun exposure.
Trend insight
Lip oils with SPF are a triple-duty hybrid, offering protection, pigment, and performance. Brands are blending mineral SPF with upcycled natural ingredients in wearable shades and combining cushioned textures with 100% mineral protection. Despite high SPF lip oil testing costs, this category is growing rapidly as part of the sunification of body care and beauty.
SPF powder for scalp and face
SPF powders are revolutionising on-the-go sun care, offering a mess-free, no-rub solution. These finely milled powders, often containing mineral filters such as zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, provide broad-spectrum protection with a lightweight, breathable finish that won’t weigh down hair or leave skin greasy.
They are ideal for dusting over hairlines, scalp partings, or over makeup, making reapplication simple and encouraging better sun habits. Formulation considerations include:
Fine particle size
Ultra-finely milled for smooth, invisible coverage.
Stable mineral SPF filters
Provide broad-spectrum protection without chemical irritants.
Non-comedogenic, lightweight
Avoids clogging pores or leaving residue.
Multi-functional
Many offer oil control, pore blurring, and makeup refreshing.
A highly concentrated form of Aloe Vera, known for its soothing, calming, and subtly refreshing properties. It can help alleviate potential irritation and enhance the overall comfort of the SPF powder on the skin.
Trend insight
SPF powders are gaining popularity for their stylish and fuss-free approach to sun protection. Their dual use as setting powders appeals to beauty enthusiasts seeking multipurpose products. Brands are expanding shade ranges and packaging options, making them more accessible and inclusive. Dermatologists recommend them for quick reapplication and scalp protection, making SPF powders an essential in modern sun care and with increasing shade ranges, face powders with SPF are becoming more inclusive and widely used.
O&3 Thoughts…
The surge in sun care format innovation reflects an industry-wide commitment to making SPF an effortless part of daily life. Each new format demands a rethinking of functionality and ingredients, where natural ingredients play a crucial role, offering versatile solutions for innovative products.
At O&3, we believe the future of SPF isn’t just more environmentally friendly, but is smarter, more wearable, and more inclusive of everyday beauty moments. Whether you’re creating a scalp sunscreen, mineral SPF stick, SPF lip oil, or powder SPF, we’re here to help you choose the right oils for performance and planet.
Please note that the views/opinions expressed in this blog are solely our own. It is the responsibility of our clients to conduct the necessary testing to substantiate any claims and ensure compliance with industry standards for every ingredient. We will not accept any liability for claims made based on our content.
