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Ask any board-certified dermatologist, and they’ll agree: A daily dose of SPF is a must year-round, and the easier it is to reapply, the better. The best spray sunscreens are a handy addition to any skin-care stash, offering a convenient, refreshing way to spritz your way to sun safety all throughout the day, whether you’re biking, beach-bound, or wanting to stay protected indoors. The key with this type of SPF—as with, say, sunscreen sticks—is to make sure you’ve applied enough.
Vogue’s Top Spray Sunscreens:
- Best for Workouts: Supergoop! Play Antioxidant Mist, $24
- Best for Sensitive Skin: La Roche-Posay Anthelios Spray Lotion Sunscreen, $27
- Best for Beach Days: Vacation Classic Spray, $19
- Best Over Makeup: Habit No 41 Floral Botanic Mister, $30
- Best Drugstore Classic: Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Body Mist Sunscreen, $40 (pack of 3)
- Best for the Scalp: Coola Scalp Hair Mist Sunscreen, $28
“My favorite way to apply spray sunscreen is to spray it into my palm and then spread it over sun-exposed skin,” says Arjun Dupati, MD, a double board-certified dermatologist and Mohs surgeon in Michigan. “This has two benefits: First, I don’t have to inhale any of the sunscreen directly. Secondly, I can see the sheen of the spray and gauge how much coverage I ve achieved, so I intuitively know the areas to apply more.”
According to Dr. Dupati, the best sunscreen sprays have an SPF of 30 or above; for days with intense sun exposure, such as beach days, he recommends a formula with SPF 70 or above for maximum UVA and UVB protection. (Dr. Arjun, himself, carries Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Body Mist Sunscreen in his beach bag all summer long.) “A great way to test out which spray sunscreen is ideal for you is to buy travel sizes of different brands and apply them on different days,” Dr. Arjun says. But if you want to cut right to the chase with a full-size buy, rest assured that dermatologists approve each of the sunscreen sprays below.
In This Article:
Whether you want a little tint with your SPF, are longing for sun protection that won’t mess up your makeup look, or have a summer of outdoor workouts ahead, the list below has the right spray sunscreen for you. Just remember to reapply!
Best for Workouts: Supergoop! Play Antioxidant Mist
- Why We Love It: “This is a dermatologist-favorite for active days. It offers broad-spectrum SPF 50, water-resistance, and it includes antioxidants like vitamin C to help combat free-radical damage from sun exposure,” says Kristina Collins, MD, FAAD, a double board-certified dermatologist and Mohs surgeon in Austin, Texas. In addition to vitamin C, the antioxidant-packed chemical sunscreen formulation is enhanced with green tea and acai extracts to protect the skin from sunburns and other sun damage. “The continuous mist makes it easy to apply and reapply, especially for families on the go,” Dr. Collins notes. And to make it even easier to apply—even immediately post-swim—the formula works on wet or dry skin.
- Chemical or Mineral: Chemical (avobenzone 2.8%, homosalate 9.8%, octisalate 4.9%, octocrylene 9.5%)
- Key Ingredients: Vitamin C, green tea extract, acai extract
- Water-Resistant: Yes
- SPF Level: 50
- Spray Type: Non-aerosol
- Size: 6 oz
| Love It | Leave It |
|---|---|
| Antioxidant-packed, water-resistant, fragrance-free | Some users find the texture slightly greasy |
Best Over Makeup: Habit No. 41 Floral Botanic Mister
- Why We Love It: “This is a chic option for SPF touch-ups, especially for the face,” Dr. Collins says. “The ultra-fine mist offers a botanical-infused formula with SPF 41, perfect for layering over makeup without disturbing your look.” Better yet—especially for those with a delicate face of glam—there’s no need to rub the touchless formula in once it’s applied. And if you like your sunscreen to smell like a spa day, that’s an added incentive to test out this formula. Its floral-botanical scent mixes notes of geranium, rosemary, and lavender. For one well-protected summer, Vogue contributor Akili King toted the winsome SPF from court to home and back again. “It gave my skin an instant cooling boost after playing tennis on a scorching hot afternoon, giving me even more of a reason—on top of avoiding skin cancer, hyperpigmentation and other unwanted skin issues—to keep using it throughout the day,” she wrote.
- Chemical or Mineral: Chemical (avobenzone 2.9%, homosalate 9.8%, octisalate 4.9%, octocrylene 9.5%)
- Key Ingredients: Bisabolol, lavender oil, rosemary leaf oil
- Water-Resistant: No
- SPF Level: 41
- Spray Type: Ultra-fine mist atomizer
- Size: 0.9 oz
| Love It | Leave It |
|---|---|
| Face sunscreen works well over makeup (it doesn’t leave a white cast); comes in chic packaging, and has a pleasant scent | SPF level is on the lower side, not ideal for the body |
Best for Antioxidants: Soleil Toujours Clean Conscious Set + Protect Micro Mist
- Why We Love It: Looking for a more organic SPF? Mission accomplished. Infused with algae extracts to moisturize, green tea to neutralize free radicals, and aloe vera to calm the skin, “This formula is both reef-safe and packed with antioxidants,” Dr. Collins says. “It’s great for sensitive skin types looking for a clean option with skin-care-grade ingredients that soothe and protect.” Designed to set makeup and shield the the face with sun protection, the 70 percent organic formula has a matte finish to keep shine at bay even on the sweatiest of summer days.
- Chemical or Mineral: Chemical (avobenzone 3%, homosalate 7.5%, octisalate 5%)
- Key Ingredients: Algae extracts, green tea, aloe vera, hyaluronic acid
- Water-Resistant: Yes, for 80 minutes
- SPF Level: 30
- Spray Type: Micro-mist
- Size: 1.7 fl oz
| Love It | Leave It |
|---|---|
| 70% organic, water-resistant, weightless feel | Size is rather small, designed for the face only, SPF level is relatively low |
Best for Sensitive Skin: La Roche-Posay Anthelios Spray Lotion Sunscreen
- Why We Love It: “Trusted by dermatologists, this spray lotion delivers powerful SPF 60 protection in a non-greasy, fast-absorbing texture,” says Dr. Collins. “Formulated with the brand’s signature thermal spring water, it’s ideal for sensitive or acne-prone skin.” Also infused with the brand’s Cell-Ox Shield Technology, which combines UVA and UVB sun filters with antioxidants, the beloved French formula can be used on both body and face. Bring it to the beach or the pool—it’s water-resistant for 80 minutes.
- Chemical or Mineral: Chemical (avobenzone, homosalate, octisalate, octocrylene, oxybenzone)
- Key Ingredients: Cell-Ox Shield Technology, thermal spring water
- Water-Resistant: Yes, for 80 minutes
- SPF Level: 60
- Spray Type: Lotion spray
- Size: 5 oz
| Love It | Leave It |
|---|---|
| High SPF, water-resistant, soothing on sensitive skin | Some users report an uneven spray delivery |
Best for Beach Days: Vacation Classic Spray,
- Why We Love It: With 1980s-inspired packaging and a coconut-banana scent that channels pool days of yore, Vacation Classic Spray isn’t all about throwback fun. “Beyond its nostalgic scent, this spray offers reliable broad-spectrum coverage in an easy-to-use mist,” Dr. Collins says. “The lightweight feel and water resistance make it a fun, yet functional, pick for beach days.” In addition to chemical sun protection, the formula is enriched with skin-loving ingredients like coconut oil, which hydrates the skin, and shea oil, which keeps it soft and supple. It also has a nip of banana extract for extra antioxidant protection, and more of that banana-pina-colada smell. Rachel Day, MD, a board-certified dermatologist and the Chief Medical Officer at Zest Health, says: “I love this sunscreen because it goes beyond protection—it’s packed with hydrating oils that leaves skin feeling soft, not sticky.” She adds that the formula sprays on light and absorbs quickly, giving the skin a subtle glow while keeping it moisturized. “It’s sunscreen that feels like self-care,” she says.
- Chemical or Mineral: Chemical (avobenzone 2.9%, octisalate 4.9%, octocrylene 7.6%)
- Key Ingredients: Coconut oil, vitamin E, aloe vera, shea oil
- Water-Resistant: Yes, for 80 minutes
- SPF Level: 30
- Spray Type: Continuous-spray mist
- Size: 6 fl oz
| Love It | Leave It |
|---|---|
| Classic tropical scent, generously sized | Relatively low SPF level |
Best for Outdoor Activities: Shiseido Ultimate Sun Protector Spray
- Why We Love It: “This sunscreen spray adapts to heat and water exposure, making it excellent for outdoor activities,” Dr. Collins says. “It also includes skin-care benefits like hydration and antioxidants, which is a win for skin health over time.” The formula contains Shiseido’s SuperVeil-UV 360 Technology, which was designed to help the SPF spread evenly over the skin for UVA/UVB coverage that doesn’t miss a spot. Another key ingredient, the patented NatureSurge Complex, contains green tea extract to guard the skin against pollution.
- Chemical or Mineral: Chemical (avobenzone 2.3%, homosalate 10.0%, octisalate 5.0%, octocrylene 5.0%)
- Key Ingredients: Grapeseed oil, licorice root extract, green tea extract
- Water-Resistant: Yes, for 80 minutes
- SPF Level: 40
- Spray Type: Invisible spray
- Size: 5 oz
| Love It | Leave It |
|---|---|
| Packed with botanical antioxidants, hydrating, dermatologist and ophthalmologist-tested | Some users report that the formula is a bit difficult to wash off |
Best for Acne-Prone Skin: MDSolarSciences Quick Dry Body Spray
- Why We Love It: “Formulated by dermatologists, this quick-dry spray contains zinc oxide and antioxidants,” Dr. Collins says. Infused with free-radical-fighting Indian gooseberry and vitamin C, “it provides a clean, non-comedogenic option that’s great for those with acne-prone or sensitive skin,” she adds. The sunscreen also contains phytic acid, which gently exfoliates the skin, offers a brightening touch, and enhances the efficacy of the formula’s antioxidants. Featuring non-aerosol technology, the spray mists the skin with an even dose of sun protection
- Chemical or Mineral: Chemical (avobenzone 3%, octisalate 5%, octocrylene 2.75%)
- Key Ingredients: Indian gooseberry, vitamin C, phytic acid
- Water-Resistant: Yes, for 80 minutes
- SPF Level: 40
- Spray Type: Non-aerosol, 30-degree continuous mist
- Size: 6 oz
| Love It | Leave It |
|---|---|
| Lightweight, gentle on sensitive skin, packed with antioxidants | Some users notice a slight alcohol smell at first, but it vanishes as the product dries down |
Best for the Scalp: Coola Scalp Hair Mist Sunscreen
- Why We Love It: “I often see patients overlook their scalp when it comes to sun protection. Coola’s Scalp Hair Mist SPF 30 is a smart, non-greasy solution that protects this often-exposed area without weighing down the hair,” Dr. Day says. With hydrating antioxidants like monoi oil it not only shields against UV damage but also supports scalp health, Dr. Collins says. “It’s a great daily addition, especially for those with thinning hair or part lines,” she concludes. What’s more, it has a summery, ocean-spray-and-sage scent.
- Chemical or Mineral: Chemical (avobenzone 2.5%, homosalate 6.0%, octisalate 5.0%, octocrylene 7.0%)
- Key Ingredients: Panthenol, cica oil, monoi oil
- Water-Resistant: Yes, for 80 minutes
- SPF Level: 30
- Spray Type: Targeted spray nozzle distributes an even mist
- Size: 2 oz
| Love It | Leave It |
|---|---|
| Protects the hair and scalp | Its SPF level is on the low side, not a one-and-done solution for face and body |
Best for Dry Skin: Sun Bum Premium Moisturizing Sunscreen Spray
- Why We Love It: “With its nourishing formula and pleasant scent, this spray provides effective broad-spectrum protection while moisturizing with ingredients like vitamin E and aloe,” Dr. Collins says. “It’s perfect for dry or sun-exposed skin.” Jeannette Graf, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in New York, also approves of the banana-scented salve. “This Sun Bum sunscreen is enriched with vitamin E and other hydrating ingredients, so it won’t dry out your skin like some sunscreen sprays can,” she says. “It’s an ideal option for families or anyone who wants sun care that is both reef-safe and non-comedogenic.”
- Chemical or Mineral: Chemical (avobenzone 3%, homosalate 15%, octisalate 5%, octocrylene 7%)
- Key Ingredients: Vitamin E
- Water-Resistant: Yes, for 80 minutes
- SPF Level: 50
- Spray Type: Free of chemical propellants, spray is dispensed via a B.O.V. (bag on valve)
- Size: 6 oz
| Love It | Leave It |
|---|---|
| Summery scent, moisturizing, water-resistant | Some users feel the texture is a tad greasy |
Best Tropical Scent: Sol de Janeiro Radiance SPF 50 Body Spray
- Why We Love It: “This sunscreen adds a luminous glow while delivering SPF 50 protection,” Collins notes. “It’s great for people who want a little shimmer along with serious sun defense, and the scent makes reapplication feel indulgent.” Graf praises the shimmery formula as well, noting: “This is a good option for those who want an added glow and sun protection.” She likes that its shimmer is subtle and not glittery, and that the formula is broad-spectrum SPF 50. “It also contains nourishing ingredients, like niacinamide and antioxidants, so you get a body care boost while wearing it,” Dr. Graf says. The formula’s Chierosa 87 scent is also a standout. Melding notes of tuberose, coconut milk, and warm sand, it evokes a luxe cabana on the beach.
- Chemical or Mineral: Chemical
- Key Ingredients: Niacinamide, coconut water, pitanga extract, pongamia seed extract
- Water-Resistant: Yes, for up to 40 minutes
- SPF Level: 50
- Spray Type: Non-aerosol
- Size: 6.7 oz
| Love It | Leave It |
|---|---|
| Generously sized | Some users report that the nozzle doesn’t always work well |
Best Drugstore Gem: Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Body Mist Sunscreen
- Why We Love It: “A drugstore staple, this dermatologist-recommended formula delivers reliable protection with a feather-light, dry finish that won’t clog pores or irritate sensitive skin,” Dr. Collins says. This is also the go-to spray sunscreen for Dr. Dupati. “The scientists at Neutrogena developed an absolute winner with the Ultra Sheer Body Mist Sunscreen,” he says. “The gentle feel on the skin with the added benefit of being a great fit for all skin types makes this an easy choice for sun protection.” He speaks from experience: Dr. Dupati uses this very formula for beach days or outdoor running. Dr. Graf is another pro who’s quick to recommend the product to patients. “Neutrogena’s Ultra Sheer line is a favorite among derms,” she attests. “It’s lightweight, non-comedogenic, and water-resistant. Its non-greasy formula makes it a good option for most skin types.”
- Chemical or Mineral: Chemical (avobenzone, homosalate, octisalate, octocrylene)
- Key Ingredients: Vitamin E, Helioplex
- Water-Resistant: Yes, for 80 minutes
- SPF Level: 70
- Spray Type: Lightweight, non-greasy mist
- Size: 5 oz
| Love It | Leave It |
|---|---|
| Widely available, dermatologist-approved | Some report that it leaves a slightly shiny finish |
Best Over Makeup: Naked Sundays Hydrating Glow Mist Top-Up Spray
- Why We Love It: “Designed for reapplication over makeup, this product includes hyaluronic acid for hydration and delivers a dewy glow,” Dr. Collins says. “It’s a convenient option for SPF maintenance throughout the day.” Graf seconds the recommendation. “This is a good option for SPF reapplication over makeup,” she says. “If you’re on the go or wear makeup daily, I recommend finding a mist SPF like this that can make touch-ups throughout the day easy, without disturbing your makeup or needing a mirror.” The hydrating formula is enriched with hyaluronic acid. It also has kakadu plum, which can minimize signs of aging and reduce puffiness, and moisturizing watermelon extract that contributes to its sweet, juicy scent.
- Chemical or Mineral: Chemical (avobenzone, homosalate, octocrylene)
- Key Ingredients: Kakadu plum, hyaluronic acid, watermelon extract
- Water-Resistant: No
- SPF Level: 50+
- Spray Type: Face mist
- Size: 2.53 oz
| Love It | Leave It |
|---|---|
| Moisturizing, dewy finish | Its finish may be too shiny for oily complexions |
Best Reef-Safe: Bask Non-Aerosol Invisible Mist Sunscreen
- Why We Love It: “This clean, reef-safe formula offers broad-spectrum SPF in a non-aerosol pump that still delivers a fine mist,” says Dr. Collins. “It’s great for environmentally conscious consumers and has a weightless, non-sticky finish.” The coconut-vanilla scent was designed to smell like vacation, and the water-resistant formula is perfect for a poolside refresh. It’s also labeled reef-safe, making it ideal for beach-bound escapes.
- Chemical or Mineral: Chemical (avobenzone 3%, homosalate 10%, octisalate 5%, octocrylene 5%)
- Key Ingredients: SD alcohol 40-B, tocopheryl acetate, and VA/butyl maleate/isobornyl acrylate copolymer
- Water-Resistant: Yes, for 80 minutes
- SPF Level: 50
- Spray Type: Non-aerosol, continuous mist
- Size: 5.5 oz
| Love It | Leave It |
|---|---|
| Non-aerosol pump, reef-safe, non-sticky | Some users have said the spray function can malfunction |
Best for Hydration: Kopari Sunglaze Sheer Body Mist Sunscreen SPF 42
- Why We Love It: “With a coconut water base and hydrating ingredients, this mist delivers SPF 42 with a sheer, skin-enhancing finish,” says Dr. Collins. “It s great for dry-skin types or those who want a touch of glow with their sun protection.” Also a fan of the formula, Graf notes: “Kopari’s body mist is a combo of sun protection and body care. It has nourishing ingredients like vitamin C and hyaluronic acid for hydration, plus it leaves behind a radiant glow.” The formula—which sparkles in the bottle with rose-gold flecks of glitter—is made more indulgent yet with its gourman, coconut-milk scent.
- Chemical or Mineral: Chemical (avobenzone 3%, homosalate 0.5%, octisalate 5%, octocrylene 10%)
- Key Ingredients: Vitamin C, vitamin E, hyaluronic acid
- Water-Resistant: Yes, for up to 80 minutes
- SPF Level: 42
- Spray Type: Non-aerosol mist
- Size: 4.7 oz
| Love It | Leave It |
|---|---|
| Hydrating, boosts radiance | Some users have reported malfunctions with the spray mechanism |
Everything You Need to Know
Do spray sunscreens actually work?
“Spray sunscreens absolutely work,” says Dr. Dupati. “While sprays have different textures from lotions and creams, I find myself reaching for 70 to 100 SPF sprays on days that I know I will spend a significant amount of time outside.” He adds that just like any other sunscreen, the key to efficacy with sunscreen sprays is to reapply every two hours to all areas of the skin that are exposed to UV rays. “I generally wear UPF clothing when outdoors for extended periods of time for the added protection,” he notes.
How much spray sunscreen should you be applying?
“For full-body protection, it’s best to spray each area of the body for about six seconds,” Dr. Collins says. “The skin should look visibly wet before rubbing it in to ensure adequate coverage.” She reinforces that reapplication every two hours, especially after sweating or swimming, is crucial.
What to Look for in a Sunscreen Spray
“Look for broad-spectrum protection, an SPF of at least 30, and formulas that are water-resistant if you’re active or swimming,” Dr. Collins recommends. She adds that dermatologists also prefer sunscreens with added antioxidants, hydrating ingredients like glycerin or hyaluronic acid, and minimal fragrance or alcohol for sensitive skin types.
Meet the Experts
- Kristina Collins, MD, FAAD, is a double board-certified dermatologist and Mohs surgeon in Austin, Texas.
- Rachel Day, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist and the chief medical officer at Zest Health, the virtual dermatology clinic specializing in psoriasis and eczema.
- Arjun Dupati, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist and Mohs surgeon in Michigan.
- Jeannette Graf, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist and assistant clinical professor of dermatology at Mt. Sinai School of Medicine.