What Is a Sunscreen Applicator?

Applying sunscreen shouldn’t feel like a chore or leave your hands sticky, sandy, or covered in greasy residue. Yet for many of us, that’s exactly what happens. Traditional sunscreen application can be messy, wasteful, and difficult to apply — especially when you're chasing kids at the beach, reapplying during sport, or trying to reach your own back!

That’s where a sunscreen applicator comes in.

A sunscreen applicator is a clever tool designed to make applying sunscreen faster, cleaner, and more convenient. Whether it’s a refillable sunscreen brush, roller, or sponge-style wand, these devices help distribute SPF smoothly and evenly — without the mess.

In recent years, sunscreen applicators have become a favourite for families, athletes, carers, and anyone who wants a smarter way to stay sun-safe… without the sticky hands or wasted product.

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What Is a Sunscreen Applicator?

A sunscreen applicator is a reusable or refillable tool that stores sunscreen inside a built-in canister and applies it directly to the skin through a brush, roller, or sponge tip. Instead of squeezing sunscreen into your hands and rubbing it in, the applicator delivers just the right amount with each stroke — making it ideal for on-the-go use, wriggly kids, or hard-to-reach areas.

Some popular types of sunscreen applicators include:

• 🖌️ Brush-style applicators (like SUNNYBOD™)
• 🎨 Rollers (ball-style distribution and then rub in with hands)
• 🧽 Sponge wands (dab and blend)

Brush applicators are growing in popularity because they feel like makeup brushes — soft to the touch, gentle on sensitive skin, and fun for kids to use. They are also popular because they don't suck up and hold excess product, leading to waste, and are great for applying sunscreen to tricky areas like the ears and around the eye — which roller-style applicators can’t do.

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How Does a Sunscreen Applicator Work?

A brush-style sunscreen applicator (like the SUNNYBOD™ Refillable Sunscreen Brush) dispenses sunscreen through soft, built-in bristles. You simply:

1. Fill the canister with your favourite sunscreen (SPF 30+ or higher recommended)
2. Press the button on the base to release a controlled amount of sunscreen into the brush head
3. Glide the brush over your skin for smooth, mess-free coverage

The soft bristles distribute SPF evenly and help avoid missed patches — like around the ears, scalp, or neck. Because it’s hands-free, there’s no sticky residue and no need to wash your hands after every application.

Applicators like SUNNYBOD™ use synthetic, latex-free, hypoallergenic bristles — gentle enough for babies, toddlers, and those with eczema-prone or sensitive skin.

It’s sunscreen, reimagined for real life.

👉 Shop the SUNNYBOD™ Refillable Sunscreen Brush — the mess-free way to apply sunscreen for the whole family.

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Why Use a Sunscreen Applicator?

1. Bye-Bye Greasy Fingers and Mess

We’ve all been there — you squeeze too much sunscreen, it slides between your fingers, and drips on your clothes… and suddenly you’re rubbing SPF into your skin and everything you touch.

A refillable sunscreen brush solves this instantly. No sticky fingers, no wasting product, and no more sandy, greasy chaos after reapplication. The brush applies sunscreen directly to the skin without you needing to rub it in. The brush does all the work.

2. Kids Actually Enjoy It

Ask any parent: applying sunscreen to kids can feel like a full-contact sport. They wiggle. They whine. They run.

But when sunscreen starts to feel like painting or playing “makeup”, everything changes. With its soft, sensory-friendly bristles, the SUNNYBOD™ brush turns sunscreen into a predictable part of the day. Kids feel the soft brush on their skin and suddenly… applying sunscreen is fun. No tears. No tantrums. Just sun safety — made simple.

3. Hygienic, Washable & Refillable

Unlike sticky tubes, messy rollers, and leaky squeeze bottles, a refillable sunscreen applicator brush keeps sunscreen contained and protected. It’s reusable, travel-friendly, and family-approved.

Each part of the SUNNYBOD™ brush — from the canister to the bristles — can be disassembled, washed, and refilled. Use the Silicone Cleaning Bowl and FREE Canister Cleaning Brush (included in every order) to keep it fresh. Swap your brush head with their replacement brush heads every 30 days.

4. Reaches Every Spot

Applying sunscreen to your back is nearly impossible, especially without help. And kids often miss the ears, neck, shoulders, and hairline. A brush applicator solves this by giving you full control, even one-handed.

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Why Choose a Refillable Sunscreen Applicator?

Some single-use or disposable versions are uncomfortable, wasteful, or hard to clean. Others aren’t designed for sunscreen at all — like makeup brushes, which end up sticky and sandy after a beach trip.

A high-quality, refillable brush is the smarter, more sustainable choice. Unlike cheap imitations that shed bristles or leak, the SUNNYBOD™ SPF applicator is:

• 🌱 100% recyclable via TerraCycle® Zero Waste Box™
• 🐰 Vegan & cruelty-free
• 🧴 Compatible with most SPF lotions, creams, and moisturisers
• 🧽 Easy to disassemble, clean, and refill endlessly
• 🧒 Hypoallergenic and gentle for sensitive skin

And because it’s refillable, you can cut down on plastic waste and save money by buying sunscreen in bulk.

👉 Shop Refillable Sunscreen Applicators — protect your skin and the planet.

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How to Use Your Sunscreen Brush

1. Fill

Unscrew the brush head from the canister. Fill with your favourite sunscreen.

2. Secure

Twist the brush head back into place. Press the button until sunscreen appears at the tips of the bristles.

3. Apply

Use gentle, sweeping motions for even coverage. Apply at least 20 minutes before sun exposure.

4. Reapply

Reapply every 2 hours — or after swimming, sweating, or towel drying.

5. Clean

Rinse with gentle soap and water. Use the SUNNYBOD™ Silicone Cleaning Bowl and swap brush heads monthly.

📺 Want to see it in action? Watch the tutorial

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The Future of Sunscreen Is a Brush, Not a Bottle

Sunscreen applicators are making sun safety more accessible, enjoyable, and sustainable. At SUNNYBOD™, we believe sun protection should be easy, mess-free, and fun — every single day.

☀️ Making Sunscreen Fun!
Ready to simplify your sun routine?
👉 Shop the SUNNYBOD™ Brush

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Disclaimer

This information is provided for general guidance only and is not intended to replace medical or professional advice. Always follow sun safety recommendations issued by your local health authorities, and consult your family doctor or healthcare provider if you have questions about sunscreen use, skin sensitivities, or individual needs.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the easiest way to apply sunscreen?

The easiest way to apply sunscreen is with a hands-free applicator like a refillable sunscreen brush. It saves time, avoids messy hands, and allows for seamless application—especially for kids and active adults.

How can I make sunscreen easier to spread?

Using a sunscreen applicator with soft bristles helps distribute sunscreen more easily and gently than by hand. Any liquid based sunscreen can be used, and sunscreen can be applied quickly, without getting sticky residue on your hands and finger. 

What is the three-finger rule for sunscreen?

The three-finger rule means applying three strips of sunscreen along your index, middle and ring fingers, which provides approximately the correct amount for your face, neck, and ears. Sunscreen brushes make it even easier to apply this, especially in the commonly missed areas such as the ears, around the eyes and hairline.

What is the device for applying sunscreen on your back?

Back applicators with long handles or wide brush heads make it easy to apply sunscreen to your back without assistance. A refillable sunscreen applicator brush with soft, flexible bristles works well for reaching tricky areas on your own, or for taking the awkwardness out of having someone apply SPF to you back and places you can't reach on your own. 

Is there a sunscreen applicator for your back?

Yes! There are specially designed sunscreen applicators that make applying SPF to your back easier and less awkward. The two most common types are:

• Long-handled brush applicators – These make it possible to apply sunscreen to your own back without twisting or straining.

• Brush-style applicators – Designed for assisted application, where a friend or partner can apply your sunscreen smoothly and hygienically, without sticky hands or uncomfortable hands-on application.

If you’re looking for a clean, simple way to apply sunscreen to hard-to-reach areas (without the mess), a refillable sunscreen applicator brush is a smart choice. Just fill it with your favourite sunscreen, pump to dispense, and brush it on — perfect for kids, parents, or anyone who wants a stress-free sunscreen routine.

What is the best sunscreen applicator for sensitive skin in Australia?

The SUNNYBOD™ refillable sunscreen brush, made with hypoallergenic, ultra-soft bristles, is an ideal choice for sensitive or eczema-prone skin, especially in Australian climates where strong sun protection is a must.

Do sunscreen applicator kits come with refillable bottles?

Yes—some applicator kits include refillable canisters that make it easy to top up with your favourite sunscreen, reducing plastic waste over time.

Where can I buy a hands-free sunscreen applicator near me?

You can purchase a hands-free sunscreen applicator from sunnybod.com.au with fast Australia-wide shipping, or check for stockists at local family, outdoor, or eco-friendly stores.

Are there affordable reusable sunscreen applicators sold locally?

Yes—reusable applicators like the SUNNYBOD™ reusable sunscreen applicator are affordably priced and designed to last, making them a smart eco-conscious pick for families, kids, and outdoor lovers.

What is the best sunscreen applicator for kids?

The best sunscreen applicator is mess-free, gentle on skin, and fun to use. The SUNNYBOD™ Refillable Sunscreen Brush.  Ask any parent: applying sunscreen to kids is a full-contact sport. They wiggle, run away, or protest every second. But when sunscreen looks like a painting activity or applying makeup, it becomes fun and everything changes.

The sensory-friendly brush and helps make SPF time tear-free and fun. The soft, hypoallergenic bristles are gentle on delicate skin. This makes them perfect for children or sensitive areas like the face, ears, neck, and shoulders. Its also perfect for applying moisturises and lotions to eczema-prone skin.

SUNNYBOD™ applicators turn sun safety into a simple, pleasant sensory experience. Kids love the soft bristles and gentle applicator brush and parents love knowing their children are actually covered from head to toe. It’s sunscreen time without the tears or tantrums.

Can you put any sunscreen in a refillable sunscreen applicator?

Absolutely. Most liquid SPF products work well in a refillable brush-style applicator. However, it's important to seek guidance from and always follow the guidelines of your sunscreen manufacturer. Remember, Sunscreen is only one component of sun protection. Avoid prolonged sun exposure. Always wear a hat, protective clothing, sunglasses and seek shade when exposed to the sun. Reapply frequently.

How do I clean a sunscreen applicator brush?

Disassemble the brush and clean it using warm water and a gentle, antibacterial makeup brush cleanser. Use a canister cleaning tool to reach inside, and swap brush heads every 30 days for best hygiene. For more information click here.

Is it hygienic to share a sunscreen applicator?

For optimal hygiene, assign one brush per person. If sharing among family members, swap out the brush head for a new one or clean the brush bristles in between uses—especially after applying to the face or body. Want a Replacement Brush Head or SUNNYBOD refillable sunscreen applicator for every family member? Visit for SUNNYBOD.com.au to get yours.