10 Best Setting Sprays with SPF to Protect Your Skin from UV Rays

Written by Sayantani Deb, Makeup & Beauty Writer
Updated on Feb 23, 2024
best spf setting spray
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

Sunscreen is a must, but reapplying sunscreen is also crucial! However, it becomes quite difficult at times when it comes to the latter part, especially above makeup. When researching about this, I came across some of the best setting sprays with SPF that are raging the market, and let me tell you — they are absolute godsends! These are not only excellent for shielding the face from harmful UV rays, pollutants, free radicals, and whatnot. And oh the best thing is that some of ‘em are even reef-friendly, which means your exotic beach vacays are absolutely in safe hands! These products are lightweight and easy to use, and in most cases, don’t leave any white cast on your face.

Based on what dermatologists across the world can’t stop emphasizing, as well as my personal experience, sunscreen should never be skipped. However, keeping everything in check right after makeup is much of a hassle, plus the reapplication process can sometimes be tiring for people who like to keep it fuss-free. Also, sometimes people skip sunscreen when they see the makeup consists of SPF. In that case, the extra protection that you get from the setting spray is an additional benefit undoubtedly. Furthermore, these products are excellent for keeping your makeup intact for the longest possible time, thanks to their waterproof and sweatproof formula. Now, without wandering around further, let's dive into the product descriptions.

10 Best Setting Sprays with SPF

Milani has been my absolute favorite when it comes to base makeup! Well, the sunscreen setting spray has been on my shelf for quite a long time, and I give some credit to it for my long-lasting makeup along with some UV protection. With SPF 30 protection, the setting spray promises an unwavering healthy shine as it hydrates the face from within. The ultra-lightweight and non-sticky formula primes the face as well as locks the makeup for better results.

Size: 2.02 Fluid ounces

SPF: 30

Sunscreen Type: Chemical

Key Ingredients: Garden Nasturtium and glycerin

Pros
  • Prevents smudging
  • 16-hour wear
  • Cruelty-free
  • Available in 4 different finishes
  • Protects from environmental aggression
  • Doesn't leave residue
Cons
  • Unsettling smell
  • Best Reef-friendly Formula

    Sun Bum Original SPF 45 Sunscreen Face Mist

    Sun Bum Original SPF 45 Sunscreen Face Mist
  • Sun Bum offers a sunscreen face mist that is reef-friendly, i.e., octinoxate, gluten, paraben, and oxybenzone-free, which gives it extra brownie points from beach lovers. Along with SPF 45, the sunscreen face mist also consists of witch hazel, which is known to shrink down the pores and work excellently as a toner for your face. And if you have oily skin like me, this protective formula that also offers extra care is exactly what you should get for your makeup session.

    Size: 3.4 Fluid ounces

    SPF: 45

    Sunscreen Type: Chemical

    Key Ingredients: Witch hazel and vitamin E

    Pros
    • Sheer finish
    • Oil-free formula
    • Lightweight
    • Non-comedogenic
    • Water-resistant
    • Dermatologically-tested
    • Cruelty-free
    • Pleasant scent
    Cons
    • Contains a lot of alcohol
    • May slightly sting around the eyes
  • Best Dermatologically-tested Formula

    COOLA Organic Makeup Setting Spray

    COOLA Organic Makeup Setting Spray
  • Made of aloe vera and cucumber fruit extract, the sun protection shields your face from the harmful UV rays of the sun. Other than that, it also sets your base makeup and hydrates your face at the same time for a healthy glow. I love how the dermatologically-tested formula is alcohol-free which makes it way more suitable for people with oily skin to use. This is also a reef-friendly formula that is perfectly ready to go in your suitcase for your next beach vacation!

    Size: 1.5 Fluid ounces

    SPF: 30

    Sunscreen Type: Organic/chemical

    Key Ingredients: Peony leaf, juniper berries, and phoenix leaf stem cells

    Pros
    • Non-GMO
    • Paraben-free
    • Vegan-friendly
    • Boosts hydration
    • Excellent for dry skin
    • Soothing properties
    • Water-resistant
    • Gluten-free
    Cons
    • Unsettling smell
  • Best Naturally-scented

    Supergoop! (Re)setting Refreshing Mist

    Supergoop! (Re)setting Refreshing Mist
  • Along with the super-cute and compact packaging, the first thing I admired about the refreshing mist is how the mist helps filter pollution as it protects your skin from the harmful UV rays of the sun. The sunscreen setting spray comes with a weightless formula and gives you a matte finish as you spray it on your face right after makeup. Plus, it offers you a subtle aroma of rosemary and mint to elevate your user experience. Ready to feel good with this antioxidant-rich formula that will also soothe your skin? You're welcome!

    Size: 1 Fluid ounce

    SPF: 40 PA++

    Sunscreen Type: Chemical

    Key Ingredients: Bisabolol, peppermint oil, spearmint oil, and rosemary oil

    Pros
    • Refreshing and soothing
    • Water-resistant
    • Resists melting away
    • Shields from pollution
    • Delivers ultra-fine mist
    • Sets makeup perfectly
    • Works for most skin types
    • Travel-friendly
    Cons
    • May slightly sting around the eyes
    • Contains a lot of alcohol
  • Best for Long-term Skin Damage

    YOURS Sunny Side Up SPF 30 Mist

    YOURS Sunny Side Up SPF 30 Mist
  • What if I tell you that a setting spray will protect your skin from harmful UV rays and will provide you with an anti-aging benefit? Well, yeah, you heard that right! This sunscreen setting mist by YOURS not only shields your skin from harmful pollutants and sun rays, but also fights the pigmentations, wrinkles, sunburn, and even the early signs of skin cancer. And if you are afraid of the white cast and greasiness, let me tell you that I have never faced this problem with this product!

    Size: 1.4 Ounces

    SPF: 30

    Sunscreen Type: Organic

    Key Ingredients: Buddleja officinalis, buddleja davidii, soliberine, phenyl benzimidazole sulfonic acid, and vitamin E

    Pros
    • Hydrates skin
    • Protects skin from free radical activity
    • Protects against blue light
    • Prevents long-term skin damage
    • Lightweight
    • Cruelty-free
    Cons
    • Bad pump
    • Formula could be leaner
  • Provides the Best Matte Finish

    Kate Somerville UncompliKated SPF 50 Setting Spray

    Kate Somerville UncompliKated SPF 50 Setting Spray
  • This setting spray is a game-changing addition to your makeup routine as it gives you a skin-like finish! The daily use of sunscreen plus makeup fixer ensures to set your makeup while giving a subtle matte effect without leaving a cast. And, let me tell you one intriguing part — it is fortified with light diffusing silicone powder that takes the charge to smoothen fine lines and wrinkles for a flawless appearance. Other than that, the facial sunscreen mist also hydrates the skin for an even plumping and youthful effect.

    Size: 3.4 Ounces 

    SPF: 50

    Sunscreen Type: Chemical

    Key Ingredients: Hyaluronic acid, Rhodiola rosea, and lavender oil

    Pros
    • Ensures long-lasting perfection
    • Paraben-free
    • Delivers a soft-focused look
    • Works for most skin types
    • Dries down fast
    • Phthalate-free
    Cons
    • May slightly sting around the eyes
  • Best to Reduce Premature Aging Signs

    EltaMD UV AOX Face And Body Sunscreen Mist

    EltaMD UV AOX Face And Body Sunscreen Mist
  • EltaMD’s sunscreen mist not only works on your face but also takes the upper hand at protecting your body from the harmful UV rays of the sun. Equipped with zinc oxide, vitamin E, vitamin C, coconut extract, and aloe vera, the SPF setting spray firmly protects your skin while hydrating and moisturizing it at the same time. Plus, it also resists sweat and water, which further helps keep your makeup in place, making it an excellent choice for humid places. Furthermore, it has a lightweight texture that dries down sheer, so nothing tampers with your makeup look.

    Size: 5 Ounces

    SPF: 40

    Sunscreen Type: Mineral

    Key Ingredients: Vitamins C and E, coconut extract, aloe vera, glycerin, and zinc oxide

    Pros
    • Prevents premature aging
    • Hydrates the skin
    • Provides full coverage
    • Suits most skin types
    • Efficient packaging and dispenser
    Cons
    • A lot of products are required for effective results
    • May leave a slight cast
  • Best Silicone-free Formula

    Pacifica Beauty Glow Baby Makeup Setting Spray

     Pacifica Beauty Glow Baby Makeup Setting Spray
  • The makeup setting spray has been my absolute favorite as it not only protects my skin from sun damage by leveraging SPF 45 but also shields it from the impact of blue light. It has an ultra-lightweight formula that gives an invisible effect on the skin while leaving a beautiful dewy finish. Consisting of sea minerals and sea algae, it generously hydrates the skin as it sits on top of makeup for the whole day. And, being devoid of mineral oil, paraben, and phthalates, it doesn’t do any harm to the skin!

    Size: 50 ml

    SPF: 45

    Sunscreen Type: Chemical

    Key Ingredients: Vitamin C, sea algae, and sea minerals

    Pros
    • Can be applied throughout the day
    • Vegan-friendly
    • Has a brightening effect
    • Cruelty-free
    • Excellent packaging
    • Talc-free
    • Silicone-free
    Cons
    • Quite sticky
    • Wouldn’t be ideal for sensitive skin
  • Best Paraben-free Formula

    Vacation Super Spritz SPF 50 Sunscreen Face Mist

    Vacation Super Spritz SPF 50 Sunscreen Face Mist
  • The SPF spray from Vacation takes you to a tropical ambiance as you apply it on your face. Especially suitable for dry skin, the broad spectrum SPF takes credit for its easy application and ease of travel. Designed to work especially over makeup, the spray sunblock for the face soothes your skin while combating sun exposure. Plus, it also fights environmental stressors, blue lights, and pollution for an even better and lasting effect. It dries quickly on your face without leaving a white cast for a gorgeous outcome.

    Size: 45 ml

    SPF: 50

    Sunscreen Type: Chemical

    Key Ingredients: Bisabolol, aloe vera, green tea, algae, caffeine, shea, and ferulic acid 

    Pros
    • Reef-safe
    • Paraben-free
    • Non-comedogenic
    • Water-resistant
    • Allergy-tested
    • Dermatologically-tested
    • Cruelty-free
    • Vegan-friendly
    • Lightweight
    Cons
    • Overpowering smell
    • Better for the body than the face
  • Best Non-comedogenic Formula

    pluxos 47 Sunscreen + Skincare SPF 47 Mist Spray

     pluxos 47 Sunscreen + Skincare SPF 47 Mist Spray
  • This is an unscented face mist spray that also thoroughly moisturizes your face as it protects your skin and sits over your makeup. It also doesn't leave a white cast when you apply it on your skin for an overall glam effect. Other than protecting your skin, it also hydrates and revives skin cells, nourishes, and fights acne which makes it a perfect option for all skin types. The SPF-infused setting spray also takes the upper hand at setting the makeup for 24 hours! 

    Size: 50 ml

    SPF: 47

    Sunscreen Type: Chemical

    Key Ingredients: Hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, sunflower extract, and vitamins C and E

    Pros
    • Fast drying
    • Lightweight
    • Gluten-free
    • Non-comedogenic
    • Vegan-friendly
    • Cruelty-free
    Cons
    • Has an unsettling odor
    • The coverage isn’t great

    SPF setting sprays are indeed one of the best beauty inventions, and now that you are aware of the products, take a look at how you can pick the best one for yourself.

    How to Choose the Best Setting Sprays with SPF?

    Here are the parameters one should consider before getting hands on the best setting spray with SPF:

    Formula: The formula of your setting sprays plays the biggest role. Make sure the product you're picking offers broad-spectrum protection. Make sure that it has at least PA+++ and an SPF rating between 30 to 50 on the label. For the unversed, the former offers protection from UVA rays while the latter blocks UVB rays.

    Finish: The kind of finish you want for yourself depends a lot on the type of skin you have. If you have oily skin, a lightweight formula that gives a matte finish is ideal for you. Similarly, people with dry skin should go for a moisturizing formula that offers a beautiful dewy finish is exactly what you need.

    Ingredients: Picking the right kind of setting spray with SPF with the right kind of ingredients is quite important. If you are planning an exotic vacay, make sure the product you are carrying goes with the compliance of the country where you are visiting. Thus, taking a close look at the ingredient list is of utmost importance for optimal protection from every possible side. A formula free of oxybenzone and octinoxate is ideal for a reef-friendly environment. 

    Now that you have checked out the buying guide, take a look at how you can use it—

    How to Apply a Setting Spray with SPF?

    Let's deep dive into how you can incorporate a setting spray with SPF with ease.

    a) First thing first, do not forget to apply your regular SPF after cleansing, toning, and moisturizing, for that extra layer of protection.

    b) Although there are no such thumb rules on how you should do your makeup, an application of makeup primer helps the makeup stay for the longest possible time. 

    c) Now, take a foundation, according to your skin tone, and apply it all over the face in a dotted manner for an even application.

    d) Take a concealer, and apply it over where you have pigmentations, dark circles, and uneven patches.

    e) Now, take some loose powder or compact powder and lightly set your face so that the base makeup doesn't move.

    f) Now, you can take your blusher, bronzer, and highlighter as per your choices and place them over the points where they are meant to be placed.

    g) Lastly, before you do your eye makeup, take your setting spray with SPF, apply it all over your face with a few spritzes, and let it set your makeup as an extra layer of UV protection.

    Conclusion

    And, here you go with the best setting sprays with SPF that are here to change your makeup and skincare game effectively! Sunscreen is an integral part of our skincare routine, and we cannot stress over the fact that this is an important step to get youthful skin in the long run. Drawing from my experience, Milani Make It Last Sunscreen is best for people who want a long-lasting effect, best for events, and all-day wear. On the other hand, COOLA Organic Makeup Setting Spray is best for people with sensitive skin. Lastly, Kate Somerville UncompliKated Makeup Setting Spray is ideal for people with oily skin and like an airbrushed finish till the end of the day. So, what are you waiting for? Get yours!

    FAQ's

    What is an SPF setting spray, and how does it differ from regular sunscreen?
    An SPF setting spray is a makeup setting spray that comes with a sun protection factor. It locks your makeup and ensures better protection. And also, you can apply it again and again as a reapplication process.
    How often should I reapply an SPF setting spray throughout the day?
    Dermatologists recommend reapplying SPF every 3-4 hours throughout the day.
    Can I use an SPF setting spray on its own without additional sunscreen?
    Well, you can, however, we will still recommend not to skip the sunscreen in your skincare routine.
    What SPF level is recommended in an SPF setting spray for daily use?
    An SPF rating of 30 and above is always recommended to get the maximum benefit. However, if you are a frequent beach visitor, SPF 50+ is what you should get.
    Will an SPF setting spray disrupt my makeup or cause it to smudge?
    No! An SPF setting spray which is lightweight and has a lighter consistency, will not smudge your makeup any day. Also, it is less likely to leave a white cast as well.
    Are SPF setting sprays suitable for all skin types?
    Yes, an SPF setting spray is suitable for all skin types. However, for oily skin people, it is recommended to use a lightweight setting spray that gives a matte finish. For dry-skinned people, it is recommended to use a setting spray that gives a dewy finish.
    Can I use an SPF setting spray with other skincare and makeup products?
    Yes, you can definitely use your setting sprays with other skincare and makeup products.
    Are there any potential side effects or skin reactions to SPF setting sprays?
    No apparent ones. However, if you have sensitive skin or eyes, make sure you read the label before you jump to conclusions.
    Can I use an SPF setting spray on other parts of my body besides the face?
    Yes, why not? You can definitely use your SPF setting spray on the other parts of your body besides your face.
    Will an SPF setting spray make my skin look oily or matte?
    It depends on the finishes it offers! If you have oily skin, picking a formula that gives a matte finish works really well. On the other hand, if you have matte skin, opting for a dewy finish is exactly what you need.
    Can I use an SPF setting spray if I have sensitive or acne-prone skin?
    Yes, you can definitely wear a SPF setting spray if you have acne-prone skin or sensitive skin. Just ensure that the formula is non-comedogenic.
    How do I remove makeup and SPF setting spray at the end of the day?
    Take micellar water in a cotton pad or a makeup-removing wipe and gently wipe your face with either of them to clear all your makeup.
    Are there any tips for maximizing the longevity of SPF setting spray throughout the day?
    Setting spray is the final deal! Although you can lightly puff some powder over it to keep the unwanted shine at bay, you can never add anything else over setting sprays.

    Why Trust Pinkvilla

    Our makeup expert, Sayantani, doesn't mind delving through hundreds of products, to cherry pick and recommend the best ones for her readers. This time, she mindfully curated a list of the best setting sprays with SPF for makeup lovers to get an extra layer of sun protection to ensure long-term benefits. She has considered parameters like formula, texture, consistency, and finish, along with the SPF of the products before concluding her list of recommendations. Some of them are not only sensitive skin-friendly, but also reef-friendly to make your vacations noteworthy.

    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 and 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
    Sayantani Deb
    Makeup & Beauty Writer

    Sayantani is a certified hair and makeup professional turned writer with 2+ years of experience in the same genre. Ap More