16 Best-smelling Sunscreens That Promise Utmost Sun Protection

Written by Anoushka Sinha, Skincare Coach & Writer
Updated on Feb 13, 2024
Best-smelling Sunscreens That Promise Utmost Sun Protection
The products curated for this article are independently chosen by the editorial team. If you make a purchase through the links mentioned below, we may receive a commission. Check out our product research & curation process

Sun safety habits are of utmost importance especially when your delicate skin is more prone to painful sun tans and burns. Masking your skin with sunscreen is important especially when your skin is more prone to sunburns, and tans. And, relying on one of the best smelling-sunscreens is always a good idea. High-grade sunscreens or sunblocks have a certain amount of sun protection factor popularly known by its initials “SPF”. SPF determines the ability of the sunscreen to block ultraviolet rays and shield the skin. They not only lay a blanket of sun protection on your skin but also guard it against harmful environmental toxins, the blue light emitted from digital gadgets, and other pollutants. And, good-smelling sunblock creams are like a bonus. They exude mesmerizing aromas to make you feel refreshed throughout the day. 

Justin Ko, MD, a Clinical Assistant Professor of Dermatology at Stanford Healthcare, says, “The number of skin cancer cases are increasing among the older folks as when we get older we certainly have an increased risk of skin cancer. But over the past few decades there also has been an increase in the cases among younger women due to the changes in the environment. When I talk to my patients, I always recommend sunscreen. We need a full shock glass size of sunscreen in order to cover our entire skin. People also use sunscreen sprays that are a good 60 seconds of spray getting the entire skin glistening.”

Athletes, fitness enthusiasts, and outdoorsy people must incorporate sunscreen into their day-to-day skincare regime. However, it is not meant to be applied before sun exposure rather it is advised to apply it even when at home. With numerous active and inactive ingredients, these creams keep skin cancer at bay and slow down premature aging. So, keep scrolling and get your hands on the best sunscreen lotion, cream, or sprays.

16 Best-smelling Sunscreens

Trust us on this — this state-of-the-art sunscreen formula by Coola literally feels like a nourishing drink of pina colada to your skin on a hot, sunny day! The fragrance consists of tropical, fruity, and coconut-y notes that soothe your senses and make you feel fresh and confident. Speaking of its formula, the product consists of organic UV filters such as avobenzone, homosalate, octisalate, and octocrylene that absorb the harsh impact of the sun and prevent that from penetrating into your skin. Plus, your skin gets additional protection from environmental aggressors as the product leverages its antioxidant properties.

Pros
  • Broad-spectrum SPF 30
  • Vegan and cruelty-free
  • Non-GMO, organic ingredients
  • Hypoallergenic
  • Water-resistant and humidity-safe
  • Ultra-sheer finish
  • Reef-friendly
Cons
  • Aerosol spray is not environment-friendly
  • Best Overall

    Sun Bum Original SPF 50 Sunscreen Lotion

    Sun Bum Original SPF 50 Sunscreen Lotion
  • This Original SPF 50 Sunscreen Lotion from Sun Bum is a premium moisturizing sunscreen lotion that you can rely on for everyday use. It is enriched with the antioxidant vitamin E and free from reefs like octinoxate and oxybenzone. In addition, this best-smelling sunscreen lotion is water-resistant for up to 80 minutes. It protects your skin from harmful UVA and UVB rays and neutralizes free radicals which is the major reason behind premature aging of the skin. This hypoallergenic lotion has a summery fragrance that will make you feel refreshed all day long.

    Pros
    • Vegan
    • Oil-free
    • Cruelty-free
    • Non-greasy
    • Non-comedogenic
    • Excellent coverage
    • Ideal for all skin types
    Cons
    • Might itch eyes if applied carelessly

    Quick Tip

    Apply Sun Bum SPF 50 Sunscreen liberally 15 mins before sun exposure. Reapply every 2 hours. Its reef-friendly formula with vitamin E is ideal for the beach.

  • Best Non-greasy Formula

    Australian Gold INSTANT BRONZER SPRAY GEL SUNSCREEN - SPF 40

    Australian Gold INSTANT BRONZER SPRAY GEL SUNSCREEN - SPF 40
  • To prevent your skin from getting burnt under the sun, check out this Instant Bronzer Spray Gel Sunscreen from Australian Gold. This non-greasy and cruelty-free sunscreen lends you a broad spectrum of SPF 4 coverage. It moisturizes and protects your skin to the fullest. It is crafted from sunflower seed oil, cocoa seed butter, olive fruit oil, vitamin C, and tea tree oil for 100 percent skin nourishment. The mesmerizing ingredients exude a fragrance of coconut, vanilla, and orange making you smell delectable.

    Pros
    • Lightweight
    • Self-tanner
    • Reef-friendly
    • Oxybenzone-free
    • Fights off free radicals
    • Water-resistant for 80 minutes
    Cons
    • Stains clothes

    Quick Tip

    Apply Australian Gold Spray Gel Sunscreen generously to enjoy instant bronzing, hydration, and SPF 40 protection.

  • Best Weightless Sunscreen

    Hawaiian Tropic Silk HYDRATION Lotion Sunscreen - SPF 30

    Hawaiian Tropic Silk HYDRATION Lotion Sunscreen - SPF 30
  • This sheer sun protector from Hawaiian Tropic is one of the best-smelling sunblocks that comes with broad spectrum SPF 30. It has a weightless and silky formula that hydrates your skin thoroughly straight up to 12 hours. This lotion is made up of exotic island botanicals and hence smells divine. With the ability to provide utmost sun protection, this sunscreen is power-packed with a nourishing formula to leave your skin smooth and supple. Loaded with the magical powers of mango, papaya, aloe vera, and guava, this skincare essential will never disappoint.

    Pros
    • Easy-to-apply
    • Dermatologist tested
    • Best suited for dry skin
    • Free from oxybenzone and octinoxate
    Cons
    • Not suitable for sensitive skin
  • Best Smelling Sunscreen Spray

    alba BOTANICA hawaiian sunscreen

    alba BOTANICA hawaiian sunscreen
  • Alba Botanica hawaiian sunscreen’s alluring coconut scent hooks your senses and makes you and your skin feel refreshed in a jiffy. This mist spray is surely one of the best-smelling sunscreen sprays that actively shield your skin from UVA and UVB rays. It is resistant to water for 80 minutes and cruelty-free. This spray is specially crafted for those who always skimp off heavy sunscreen. It features a very broad spectrum of sun protection i.e SPF 50. Aloe vera, coconut, avocado, and safflower oils being the key ingredients, this spray is apt for laying a blanket of SPF on hard-to-reach areas.

    Pros
    • Pack of 2
    • Non-greasy
    • Air-powered
    • Quick drying
    • Mineral-based
    • Protects against skin cancer
    Cons
    • Contains alcohol
  • Best for Daily Use

    Supergoop! PLAY Everyday Lotion - SPF 50

    Supergoop! PLAY Everyday Lotion - SPF 50
  • Protect your skin with this fantastic Supergoop! Play Everyday Lotion that is packed with SPF 50. It is enriched with clean ingredients like rosemary and sunflower leaves extracts. These two key ingredients aid in protecting your skin from all sorts of environmental elements hampering the quality of your skin. The best part of this sunscreen is that it doesn’t leave behind a white cast. It glides seamlessly onto your skin and its refreshing scent calms you down. The cream is also light in weight, non-sticky, plus meant for all skin types.

    Pros
    • Reef-safe
    • Rich in antioxidants
    • Safe for sensitive skin
    • Sweat and water-resistant
    • Suitable for face and body
    Cons
    • Expensive
    • Very large pump
  • Sun Bum Day Tripper

    Sun Bum Day Tripper
  • For those who are always on their toes right under the sun, Sun bum brings to you this premium travel kit called Day Tripper. It contains three sun care essentials namely SPF 30 sunscreen that is gluten-free, vegan, water-resistant, and a rich source of vitamin E. Additionally, it has a SPF 30 lip balm for maximum lip protection and a cool down soothing aloe lotion. Incorporate these three products into your skincare regime and we bet you need not look for anything else prior to or post-sun exposure.

    Pros
    • Non-oily
    • Very handy
    • Paraben-free
    • Lovely coconut scent
    • Comes in a zippered pouch
    • Perfect for a beach vacation
    Cons
    • Not meant for very sensitive skin
  • innisfree Daily UV Defense Sunscreen

    innisfree Daily UV Defense Sunscreen
  • Get ultimate sun protection from UVA and UVB sun rays with this Daily UV Defense Sunscreen introduced by innisfree. It is a good-smelling sunscreen with great coverage of SPF 36 that is extremely light on the skin. Its water-based formulation never makes you encounter those embarrassing white casts. The hydrating sunscreen is packed with a luxurious blend of cica, sunflower seed oil, and fragrant green tea. And, that is from where it derives its lovely scent.

    Pros
    • Soothing
    • Matte finish
    • Spreads evenly
    • Hydrates the skin
    • Good for sensitive skin
    • Layers well under makeup
    Cons
    • Hard to scrub off
  • HAWAIIAN TROPIC Everyday Active Sunscreen Lotion

    HAWAIIAN TROPIC Everyday Active Sunscreen Lotion
  • To keep your skin looking beautiful and glamorous, try this Everyday Active Sunscreen Lotion from Hawaiian Tropic and head out fearlessly in the sun. This high-performance sunscreen smells like tropical coconut and safeguards your skin against the ultraviolet rays of the sun. For radiant, quick, and even coverage, you ought to add this lotion to your skincare kitty. Infused with the effectiveness of mango fruit extracts and of course, coconut, this lotion delivers what it claims.

    Pros
    • Breathable
    • Doesn’t clog pores
    • Lightweight formula
    • Available in SPF 15, 30, 50
    • Recommended by Skin Cancer Foundation
    Cons
    • Sticky
  • TULA SKINCARE protect+glow daily sunscreen gel broad spectrum SPF 30

    TULA SKINCARE protect+glow daily sunscreen gel broad spectrum SPF 30
  • In addition to UV rays, this sunscreen gel also keeps the damaging effects of blue light and pollution at bay. That’s all because Tula Skincare’s protect+glow daily sunscreen gel not only wraps your skin with necessary sun protectors but also pampers it effectively. It evens out skin tone and pumps up your skin to provide a natural glow. The broad-spectrum SPF 30 gel makes your skin feel a lot healthier and softer. The credit also goes to its potent ingredients such as papaya, wild butterfly ginger root, pineapple, and probiotic extracts.

    Pros
    • Reef-safe
    • Mild scent
    • Non-greasy
    • Smoothes skin
    • Non-comedogenic
    • Suits all skin types
    • Leaves no white caste
    • Can be used as a primer
    Cons
    • Might clog pores
  • CōTZ Flawless Complexion Tinted SPF 50

    CōTZ Flawless Complexion Tinted SPF 50
  • This Flawless Complexion Tinted SPF 50 from CōTZ consists of a powerful yet beautiful amalgamation of active and inactive ingredients that get absorbed into your skin instantly. With high UV protection and SPF 50 broad spectrum coverage, this tinted cream leaves your skin dewy and soft. All thanks to its moisturizing abilities that prevent your skin from over-drying. Zinc oxide is the most potent active ingredient that gets absorbed deeply and also calms down your skin from consistent heat stress.

    Pros
    • Soft finish
    • Gluten-free
    • Sheer-texture
    • Ideal for oily skin
    • Preservative-free
    • Suits all skin tones
    Cons
    • Leaves white cast
  • hint Pineapple SPF 30 Sunscreen Spray

    hint Pineapple SPF 30 Sunscreen Spray
  • Sunscreen sprays are the most convenient skincare essentials if you spend the majority of your time under the sun. The SPF 30 formula of this fruitilicous hint Pineapple SPF 30 Sunscreen Spray gets spritzed evenly. It is an air-compressed spray that lives up to your skin protection needs and necessities. It is easy to apply and resistant to water. This 6-ounce bottle is handy and created without the presence of parabens and oxybenzone.

    Pros
    • Dries quickly
    • Ideal for all skin types
    • Can be applied to wet & dry skin
    • 360-degree spray-on application
    Cons
    • Unsatisfactory dispenser
  • HydroPeptide Solar Defense Non-Tinted SPF 50

    HydroPeptide Solar Defense Non-Tinted SPF 50
  • This distinctive non-tinted solar defense sunscreen from HydroPeptide is loaded with skin-friendly ingredients like hyaluronic acid, cucumber, acai extracts, and calendula. This sunblock guards your skin against UV and infrared rays while enhancing your look. It is a reef-friendly product that seamlessly nourishes the skin and relieves it from the damage caused by free radicals. Not to forget, its soothing cucumber fragrance makes it a win-win skincare product for everyday use.

    Pros
    • Convenient size
    • Sheer matte finish
    • Antioxidant protection
    • Targets sensitized skin
    • Promotes a clear complexion
    Cons
    • Pricey
  • REEF REPAIR Suncream SPF 50

    REEF REPAIR Suncream SPF 50
  • Natural, coral-friendly, and biodegradable are the three impressive features of Reef Repair Sunscream which come with a dollop of SPF 50. It is cruelty-free, reef-safe, and a moisturizing sunscreen that smells fantastic. Plus, it does not leave a white cast behind. It lends you the strongest protection from the damaging effect of UV rays without making your skin sticky or greasy. With the goodness of zinc oxide and red raspberries, this cream makes your sunscreen application aromatic anywhere anytime.

    Pros
    • Safe for kids
    • Travel-friendly
    • Non-oily texture
    • No harmful chemicals
    Cons
    • Difficult to spread
  • Geologie Moisturizing Morning Cream with SPF15

    Geologie Moisturizing Morning Cream with SPF15
  • This Geologie Moisturizing Morning Cream with SPF15 is what you need at your hands for an impeccable sun-kissed glow without the fear of sun damage. It contains 3% niacinamide, 2% hyaluronic acid, and 1% argan oil for 100% sun protection and skin moisturization. Along with these, it is also infused with the powerhouse of hydration —  sodium hyaluronate that keeps your skin plump, supple, and soft to the maximum. Incorporate this cream into your morning routine and frolic all day long under the sun with no fear of sun damage.

    Pros
    • Mattifying formula
    • Reduces blemishes
    • Improves the quality of the skin
    • Reduces the visible signs of aging
    Cons
    • Greasy
  • MISTINE AQUA Base Sunscreen Lotion- SPF 50

    MISTINE AQUA Base Sunscreen Lotion- SPF 50
  • Here comes another best-smelling sunblock lotion that offers double sun protection with its lightweight and watery formula. It actively blocks 98% of UVA and UVB rays and simultaneously boosts the hydration levels of your skin. This scented sunblock essential works well on normal, dry, oily, as well as combination skin. With the power of glycerin and nymphaea alba extracts, it gently penetrates into your skin and prevents the loss of moisture. If you ask us, this screen leaves no space for complaints or disappointments.

    Pros
    • Water-resistant
    • Sweat-resistant
    • Nourishes the skin
    • Exerts anti-aging effects
    • Reduces fine lines and wrinkles
    Cons
    • None

    We hope you enjoyed glancing through our list of aromatic sunscreens that lives up to your expectations and guarantee the utmost sun protection. To make every penny count, we have jotted some of the most unignorable factors related to sunscreens. So, roll your eyes and dive deeper into the world of UVA and UVB fighters.

    Things to Look for in a Best-Smelling Sunscreen for Women

    Here are a few of the aspects to consider while selecting the best sunscreen. 

    Formulations: Always use good-quality sunscreens that feature skin-friendly formulations. Pick a cream that comes with a lightweight formulation and doesn’t feel greasy or sticky. You may also pick a lotion or gel-like sunscreen that quickie absorbs into your skin and penetrate deeper. 

    Pro Tip

    Seek sunscreens with delightful scents for a pleasant experience. Apply generously and reapply hourly to enjoy both protection and a fragrant experience under the sun.

    Ingredients: It is very important to pay heed to the list of ingredients while purchasing sunscreen for everyday use. Make sure you avoid lotions, creams, or gels that are infused with oxybenzone and octinoxate. A sunscreen enriched with a beautiful amalgamation of active and inactive ingredients such as fruit extracts, green tea, argan oil, and zinc oxide tends to be more effective.

    Sun Protection Factor (SPF): Always choose a sunscreen that promises broad spectrum coverage. There is a wide range of sunscreens featuring varied SPF levels. Some of them contain low SPF levels like 4, 10, and 15 whereas some have SPF of 40 and 50. For utmost sun protection, stick to a smelling sunscreen that is loaded with high SPF levels. 

    No to Toxic Ingredients: Avoid sunscreens with harmful toxins, chemicals, and synthetic fragrances. Choose a preservative-free sunscreen that causes no adverse effects. 

    Skin Type: No matter if you choose a non-smelling sunscreen or smelling sunscreen, you must know your skin type better. There are creams, gels, sprays, and lotions formulated for specific skin types. If you possess sensitive skin, choose a lightweight formula power-packed with naturally-derived and skin-soothing ingredients. 

    Once you consider the above aspects, make sure you read the directions for usage well. For your better understanding, we have penned down the most ordinary steps of using sunscreen. 

    How to Use Sunscreen?

    Following are the steps to use sunscreen. 

    Step 1: To activate the ingredients, shake the bottle of sunscreen. Apply it for at least 25 minutes prior before stepping out under the sun.

    Step 2: Squeeze a sufficient quantity and apply it all over your face, ears, neck, hands, legs, and every area that is going to be exposed to the sun. For hard-to-reach areas, you can use a sunscreen spray. 

    Step 3: Spread the sunscreen gently. 

    Step 4: Reapply the sunscreen after every 2 hours. Make sure you apply it after completing your workout sessions or after swimming. 

    We are sure you must have added the best-smelling sunscreen to your cart. After all, such fragrant creams are the need of the hour. In the constant hustle and bustle of daily life, you might fail to satisfy the needs of your skin. But with the best sunblock moisturizer on your hands, we are sure your skin will never fall prey to sunburns or excessive sun tans. They are indeed your skin warriors that strengthen the barriers and keep your skin healthy and supple.

    Why Trust Pinkvilla

    If there's one skincare product that experts and dermatologists see as a sin to skip, it is a sunscreen! Our skincare coach, Anoushka, has thus taken the matter in her hands, to introduce to you the best smelling sunscreens so that you are a little bit encouraged to never skip the holy grail. She also spent hours of time to round off these products based on their reviews, effectiveness, and ingredients. Let us tell you that these sunscreens with soothing scents not only shield your skin from the harmful rays of the sun, but also calm down your nerves with the tantalizing scent when you use it.

    Our product experts study the specifications of every product we suggest and try them out to bring what’s proven to be worthy of your money, time, and energy. We also have subject matter experts from various fields like Fashion, Skincare, Haircare, Home Decor, and Health & Fitness onboard to make sure our suggestions are credible and trustworthy. You can trust select to be your faithful shopping guide for all the right reasons!

    Author BIO
    reviewer
    Anoushka Sinha
    Skincare Coach & Writer

    Anoushka is certified in Professional Skincare and is a Mass Media (Journalism) graduate from Mumbai University. As a More