Dermatologists Say These Are The 15 Best Spray Sunscreens Out There

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Summer is nearly here—school is out, the vacations are planned, and the sun is shining. A facial sunscreen should be part of your daily skincare routine, but so should a body sunscreen, and it's super important to make sure you're applying and reapplying your SPF throughout the day. That’s where spray sunscreens enter the chat.

I personally hate rubbing in SPF lotion all over my body—especially in those hard-to-reach areas. It’s way easier to apply (and reapply) with a mist. And, experts agree. "Many spray sunscreens have a lightweight formula and do not feel as heavy as sunscreen lotions,” says dermatologist Dr. Brendan Camp, MD.

Best spray sunscreens

Spray sunscreens also absorb way faster than other forms of sunscreen, yet they’re still made with mineral or chemical filters, says dermatologist Marisa Garshick, MD. So even though they feel really lightweight, spray sunscreens still use active ingredients to protect your skin from UV radiation. They're just as effective in helping to reduce your risk of sunburn and skin cancers as other sunscreen formulations.

What to consider

With all the available brands of spray sunscreen on the market, you're probably wondering where to begin. Before you shop, here are a few things to look out for.

Ingredients

In a mineral sunscreen, look for zinc and titanium. "These ingredients sit on the skin's surface and reflect UV radiation," says Dr. Camp. Dermatologist Blair Murphy-Rose, MD, also says to look for zinc oxide, since it creates a barely-visible barrier against UV rays, making it one of the best ingredients to look for in a sunscreen. Chemical sunscreens, on the other hand, contain oxybenzone, avobenzone, octisalate, octocrylene, homosalate, and octinoxate. "These ingredients are absorbed into the skin and convert UV radiation to heat that is then emitted off the skin surface," says Dr. Camp.

Other than filters that protect against UVA and UVB, look for hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid and glycerin. "Some sunscreen formulas also contain antioxidants to help protect against free radical damage," Dr. Garshick says.

Broad spectrum

If you've ever asked yourself what broad spectrum means on your sunscreen, you're not alone. The label indicates that the product provides protection from both UVA and UVB rays. This is especially important because it helps prevent everything from sunburn and skin cancer to wrinkles and aging spots, per the American Academy of Dermatology Association.

Water-resistant

If you spend a lot of time outdoors during the summer, you'll definitely want a water-resistant sunscreen. Maybe you like going on long runs and hitting the beach, or perhaps, you tend to sweat more during warmer months. Either way, it'll be a huge help. Keep in mind, however, that a water-resistant formula isn't the same as waterproof. No sunscreen is waterproof explains dermatologist, Dr. Joshua Zeichner, MD. "Resistance means that it will remain active on the skin for a specified amount of time, even in the presence of water," he says.

With that in mind, he suggests reapplying sunscreen every two hours, especially if you're toweling off post-sweat or swim. "Chemical sunscreens are inactivated as they react with UV rays, so over time they are not as effective at protecting you as they originally are when they are applied," says Dr. Zeichner. On the flip side, he notes that mineral sunscreens clump on the skin, especially when they mix with sweat and oil.

SPF

No matter what form you're getting your sunscreen in, it should have a minimum of SPF 30 with the words "broad spectrum." "That ensures that the sunscreen will provide adequate protection against both sunburn-causing UVB rays as well as cancer-causing UVA rays," says Dr. Zeichner.

How we selected

For the past year, Women’s Health editors, including assistant love and life editor Addison Aloian and editorial assistant Sabrina Talbert tested the bestselling, most popular, and top-rated spray sunscreens. Our team consulted four dermatologists and a group of anonymous testers. We then evaluated thousands of customer reviews and ratings to narrow down the best 16 spray sunscreens for a wide range of skincare needs and preferences.

Anthelios Spray Lotion Sunscreen

This spray is recommended by the Skin Cancer Foundation, and also dermatologists we spoke with, including Dr. Garshick and Dr. Camp. We love that it applies as a visible lotion, but absorbs very easily. Plus, it has a "360-degree spray, making it easy to use and great for someone doing outdoor activities," Dr. Garshick says.

Its SPF level is 60, and Dr. Camp says that the thermal spring water offers the added benefit of antioxidant protection. Testers with sensitive skin say this formula doesn't cause irritation. Some point out that it leaves somewhat of a white cast, so you might have to really rub it in if you want to avoid it.

Moisturizing Sunscreen Spray

This formula, recommended by Dr. Garshick, is ultra-sheer and absorbs extremely quickly, so it won’t leave any greasy residue behind. "It also contains vitamin E to help protect against free radical damage and is oil-free and cruelty-free," she says.

Need more proof that this is a dang good sunscreen? WH editors love it too. "This is my all-time favorite," says associate news editor Charlotte Walsh. "It never feels greasy on the skin and has the best coverage—I almost never miss a spot! (And I'm very prone to burns, so I'd definitely know if I did.)" She adds that the coconut scent is always a crowd-pleaser, too.

UV AOX Mist

Both Dr. Garshick and Dr. Camp recommend this spray sunscreen from EltaMD. With a transparent finish, the lightweight spray will leave your skin feeling hydrated, but not greasy. "It has a white-to-clear technology that makes it easy to see how much you're applying but then absorbs easily without a white cast," she adds.

In addition to zinc, Dr. Camp loves that the transparent formula contains Vitamins C and E to provide antioxidant protection. While many testers say this sunscreen is on the pricer side, we think it's worth the splurge. If you have sensitive skin, make sure to do a patch test first, as some testers were left with itchy skin afterwards.

Play Antioxidant Body Mist

Many users know that when it comes to sunscreen, Supergoop is up there on the list of top brands to try. "This non-aerosol spray is both sweat and water-resistant, making it a great option for someone who is active," says Dr. Garshick. Plus, the vitamin C leaves your skin looking radiant, she adds. Dr. Camp also recommends it because it's free of chemical propellants.

With soothing ingredients like vitamin C, green tea, and acai, you can play in the sun stress-free knowing that your skin is being both nourished and protected. Though we did that this product runs out fast, which is why we suggest opting for a two pack like this one, over a single bottle.

Continuous Sunscreen Spray

This water-resistant formula is made with chemical active ingredients such as avobenzone, homosalate, octisalate, and octocrylene that Dr. Camp recommends looking for in a sunscreen. Plus, it has glycerin, a hydrating ingredient that Dr. Garshick recommends.

While this product is listed as fragrance-free, some users say it smells like alcohol, which can be overwhelming. Meanwhile other appreciate that the formula contains jojoba and avocado to prevent irritation and soften the skin. Another bonus: this sunscreen will give you the protection you're looking for minus a white cast.

Beach Defense Sunscreen Spray

This spray from Neutrogena is high in SPF and water-resistant for up to 80 minutes, making it a prime beach sunscreen. "This sunscreen uses Helioplex technology to protect the skin against UVA and UVB, this is especially great for beach days," says Dr. Garshick. "It is lightweight and absorbs easily."

It's oil-free and has over 5,000 Amazon ratings. Testers with sensitive skin also love that it provides protection without causing irritation or breakouts. "This is my go-to for days when I spend most of my time in the water," says Walsh. "It takes over an hour to wear off, which means I don't have to get out, dry off, and reapply."

Read more: Best Sunscreens for Sensitive Skin

Quick Dry Body Spray

This spray comes at the rec of Dr. Garshick. Not only is it lightweight and fast-absorbing (hence the name), but she loves that this spray also contains antioxidants to help protect against free radical damage. Testers say the coverage is fantastic, that it really does dry quickly, and feels high-quality.

The formula also prevents that sticky feeling that you might get with other brands. Those with sensitive skin can also rest easy knowing this dermatologist-developed product is fragrance-free, making it less likely to cause negative reactions.

Sensitive Mineral Sunscreen Spray

Both Dr. Garshick and Dr. Murphy-Rose recommend this Blue Lizard spray. "This fragrance-free spray is especially good for those with sensitive skin," Dr. Garshick explains. "It contains zinc oxide, providing protection against UVA and UVB and is also water-resistant."

This is our fave pic for the best eco-friendly spray sunscreen—it's made with an earth-friendly propellant, which basically means it has a low global warming potential. It's also reef-safe, which is a major bonus who just want to be conscious of the environment.

transparent Zinc Sunscreen

This mineral sunscreen will protect your skin with zinc oxide (a clarifying ingredient derms love) and nourishing sunflower oil. It's also water-resistant and made with 13 (!!!) natural, plant-based ingredients. We also appreciate the soothing affects of the aloe in it, too.

Testers adore it because it has wide spray nozel to make application easy, doesn't feel greasy on the skin, and really protects your skin from getting burnt. We also like that it's fragrance-free and leaves a barely noticeable white cast.

Protecting Scalp & Hair Mist

"The scalp is an area that can easily be overlooked when applying sunscreen," says Dr. Camp. "This product is designed to make it easy to protect scalp skin from burns." This reef-safe, oil-free formula is said to be good for all skin types, according to Dr. Camp. Even better, our testers found that it didn't weight their hair down.

With SPF 30, sea kelp, and algae, you're guaranteed to benefit from the moisturizing properties in addition to great sun protection. Many users also appreciate the light coconut smell, which is light enough to be non-irritating to those who have sensitive skin.

Advanced Hydration Sunscreen Spray

Eucerin is already a trusted drugstore beauty brand, so it's no surprise that its sunscreen made the list. "Containing hyaluronic acid, this sunscreen helps to protect the skin while also boosting moisture," says Dr. Garshick. "It's also formulated with antioxidants that won’t leave the skin feeling greasy."

This non-comedogenic and hypoallergenic spray is great for all skin types, she adds, and it was developed by dermatologists, so you know it's a solid pick. We love how effective it is, especially at this affordable price point. Plus, we found after using this consistently, it didn't leave any residue

Sensitive Sunscreen Spray

This hypoallergenic zinc mineral sunscreen is great for its gentle feel, according to testers. It doesn't feel greasy, and users with eczema absolutely love it. With no added oils or fragrances, it's the perfect buy for those with sensitive skin.

With an SPF of 50, it'll protect you from both UVA and UVB rays, and it's water resistant for up to 80 minutes—that makes it the perfect sunscreen for sitting by the pool or sweating it out on the pickleball court. Compared to other brands, Banana Boat delivers on quality for a budget-friendly price.

Kids All transparent Mineral Sunscreen Spray

If you're looking for a sunscreen for the whole family, you'll love this options from Thinksport. "This spray contains zinc oxide and is great for all but especially for those who are active and spend a lot of time outdoors," Dr. Garshick says. Plus, it's water-resistant for up to 80 minutes.

Many users like that this product is reef-safe and free of harsh chemicals such as benzene, parabens or phthalates. Some testers also like how soothing the aloe and vitamin E is on their skin.
This mineral spray has an SPF of 50, so it's sure to keep your skin protected even on the hottest days.

Mineral Sunscreen Spray

ICYMI, Alicia Silverstone loves COOLA Sunscreen and our testers do too. This reef-safe mineral spray is made with zinc oxide, an active ingredient that Dr. Garshick loves. But, it's also chemical-free and has a transparent application, giving skin a matte look. Many users love the non-greasy formula and high-quality ingredients in it.

Overall, we think this is a solid option for those who prefer to only use mineral sunscreens. It's water-resistant for up to 80 minutes, which means you may not have to reapply as often. However, that mainly depends on the activity you're doing, if you're toweling off, etc.

Kids Spray & Play Continuous Sunscreen Spray

If you're already a fan of Black Girl Sunscreen, you'll love this version designed for kids. This affordable formula provides protection to any and all of your little ones. It's reef-safe and water-resistant for up to 80 minutes, so the SPF 50 formula will last a while before the kids need to reapply.

The active ingredients (avobenzone, homosalate, octisalate, and octocrylene) are those you'd see in chemical sunscreens, which Dr. Camp recommends. It also has chamomile to fight inflammation and carrot seed oil with vitamins A and E. Testers love the price point of this sunscreen and appreciate the glow it leaves on their skin.

Meet the experts

• Dr. Brendan Camp, MD is a New York-based board-certified dermatologist.

• Dr. Blair Murphy-Rose, MD, is a New York-based board-certified dermatologist.

• Dr. Marisa Garshick, MD, is a New York-based board-certified dermatologist.

• Dr. Joshua Zeichner, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist and associate professor of dermatology at The Mount Sinai Hospital.

Is spray sunscreen as effective as other types?

Sprays are aerosolized products, unlike lotions or powders, says Dr. Camp. For that reason, it may be more difficult to see how much spray sunscreen you're actually applying and whether it's rubbed in. Just be sure you're using it propertly—a.k.a., getting enough product into your skin—as much as you would with any lotion.

What’s the best way to apply a spray sunscreen?

If applying spray sunscreen to the body, hold the nozzle close to your skin to avoid product getting blown away in the wind, then spray it until your skin glistens. Dr. Murphy-Rose recommends spraying it sequentially in rows, like spray paint. Afterwards, rub it in thoroughly so it's applied evenly with no gaps.

If applying spray sunscreen on the face, spray it on your hands, then apply it to your face. Lastly, be sure to reapply it every two hours when you're in direct sunlight or getting wet.

Are spray sunscreens safe?

Generally, yes—spray sunscreens are safe when used correctly.They're flammable, so avoid applying them near heat, an open flame, or while smoking, Dr. Camp says. Also, you'll want to apply enough of the spray sunscreen for it to be effective, Dr. Garshick adds.

However, some products may "contain chemical sun protectants, which may be absorbed into the bloodstream and be hazardous to the environment or to one’s health, though more research is needed to prove that point," says Dr. Murphy-Rose.

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