If you’re already hooked on that iconic Sol de Janeiro scent—sweet, beachy, and basically bottled summer—then you probably already had your eyes on their sunscreen line. I definitely did. And the moment I got my hands on both the Sol de Janeiro SPF Spray and the Sol de Janeiro SPF Lotion, I knew I had to test them side by side.
They both promise SPF 50 protection, that signature Cheirosa 87 fragrance, and that “glow from the gods” finish—but they’re totally different in texture, feel, and how they fit into your day. So if you're trying to figure out which one belongs in your beach bag (or your everyday routine), here's everything I learned after actually using both.
Quick Look
The Spray is super lightweight, cooling, and great for on-the-go use.
The Lotion is thicker, more moisturizing, and works especially well for skin that leans dry or needs calming.
Both offer broad-spectrum SPF 50, smell amazing, and leave your skin glowing—but the feel and finish are totally different.
Spray Texture
Kicking things off with the SPF spray, this one delivers that summer-on-your-skin feeling instantly.
Right out of the bottle, it gives off vacation energy. The mist is super fine and goes on wet (like a cool drink of water for your skin), then sinks in fast. There’s no awkward white residue, and it dries down into a soft, non-greasy sheen.
What really sold me, though, was the glow. The finish isn’t sparkly or oily—it’s more like a natural radiance that makes your skin look healthy and sun-kissed without the sun damage.
Spray Ingredients
The spray features:
- Coconut water for a refreshing, cooling sensation
- Pitanga extract (loaded with vitamin C)
- Niacinamide to help even out skin tone
- Pongamia seed extract for antioxidant support
Spray Highlights
- Water-resistant for 40 minutes
- Leaves a soft glow without stickiness
- Blends evenly with no white cast
- Smells amazing (as expected)
- It’s super simple to top up with this one—even halfway through the day
Lotion Texture
Switching over to the lotion, this version brings a completely different feel.
If the spray is a quick beach day hero, this is your slow beauty moment. It’s a 100% mineral sunscreen, which means it uses zinc oxide instead of chemical filters. That’s great for sensitive skin, but mineral formulas usually feel heavy—this one doesn’t.
It’s creamy, but not greasy. It blends surprisingly well for a mineral lotion, and once it’s on, it leaves your skin feeling soft, hydrated, and protected without any chalkiness.
Lotion Ingredients
The lotion includes:
- Cupuaçu butter to lock in moisture
- Niacinamide for skin-brightening benefits
- The same warm solar tuberose and coconut scent as the spray
The smell is like a dreamy mix of warm sun and coconut cream—soft, sweet, and summery in the best way.
Lotion Highlights
- 100% mineral broad-spectrum SPF
- No greasy or sticky feeling
- Hydrates and softens skin
- Subtle, even glow
- Blends easily despite being mineral-based
What’s Different?
The Spray is ideal for quick mornings, reapplications at the beach, or moments when you want to glow but don’t have time to rub in lotion. It’s super user-friendly and feels like a mist-meets-serum hybrid.
The Lotion, on the other hand, is for when you want SPF that feels like skincare. It’s better for dry skin, or if you prefer a richer feel with more hydration built in.
Also worth noting: the spray is not mineral, while the lotion is 100% mineral. That could matter a lot if you have sensitive skin or prefer to avoid chemical sunscreens.
Who Should Pick What
Go for the Spray if:
- You want something lightweight and fast
- You love how radiant and luminous your skin looks after applying it
- You need a sunscreen that’s quick to refresh and layer throughout the day
- You don’t mind chemical SPF
Go for the Lotion if:
- You have dry or sensitive skin
- You prefer mineral sunscreens
- You want moisture plus sun protection
- You prefer a soft, barely-there glow that looks more natural than dewy
What I Noticed
I wore the spray on a full beach day and didn’t burn once. It didn’t melt off or feel heavy, and reapplying it was actually enjoyable (never thought I’d say that about sunscreen). My skin looked better with it on—more even, glowing, and fresh.
The lotion, on the other hand, came through for me after a long shower or when my skin was feeling dry or overexposed. It feels more nourishing, and I love how soft my skin felt even hours later. It’s also a better pick under clothes, since it doesn’t leave that tacky finish.
My Routine
Honestly? I use both.
The spray lives in my beach tote for sunny days and last-minute outings where I need something quick and effective.
The lotion is my go-to after showers, or when I’m staying out for a while and want my skin to feel protected and moisturized. It’s more of a skincare step than a sun step for me.
Final Thoughts
This brand really got it right with both formulas. They made SPF something I actually look forward to using. You’re getting full SPF 50 protection, beachy fragrance, and skin-loving ingredients either way.
So, whether you want the lightweight SPF spray that glows and goes, or the hydrating SPF lotion that doubles as skincare, you’re going to look good, feel protected, and smell like a tropical dream. Honestly, sunscreen has never felt this good.
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Uma McAllister is the beauty aficionado at ThirtysSix. With years of experience working with top beauty brands and a knack for uncovering skincare secrets, Uma is your guide to achieving that glow. Her approach is holistic, focusing on both inner wellness and external beauty, from clean makeup brands to DIY skincare rituals. Uma’s voice is warm, encouraging, and always empowering, making her readers feel like they’re on a beauty journey together. Whether she’s testing the latest viral product or breaking down the science behind skincare ingredients, Uma’s content is as informative as it is engaging, helping her readers look and feel their best.
