11 Best Spray Sunscreens for a Quick Splash of Sun Protection

Written by Anoushka Sinha, Skincare Coach & Writer
Updated on May 24, 2024
Best Spray Sunscreens
Best Spray Sunscreens
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Sun protection is essential for maintaining healthy skin and preventing sun-related damage. From a variety of sunscreens available on the market, the best spray sunscreens offer a convenient, quicker, easier, and more effective way to shield your skin from harmful UVA and UVB rays. They guarantee comprehensive protection while you enjoy every outdoor adventure or activity fearlessly. Whether you plan a day at the beach, go hiking, or simply aim to run errands, the even coverage and ease of application provided by spray sunscreens, undoubtedly, make them a popular choice for skincare junkies of all ages.

Be it a drugstore sunscreen or a high-end mineral-based one, the one featuring a spray-on style is bound to save time with regard to application and reapplication every two hours. Plus, it is an ideal choice for full-body application, as it feels incredibly lightweight and has a non-greasy feel. Also, they are enriched with essential minerals and natural sunscreen ingredients to keep your skin utterly hydrated and supple. 

After extensive research, we invite you to explore some of the top-rated spray sunscreens on the market, serving you with valuable and authentic insights to make an informed choice for your sun protection needs.

11 Best Spray Sunscreens

Sun Bum’s Moisturizing Sunscreen Spray is a must-have skincare product for all the good reasons. This spray is loaded with the goodness of skin-loving ingredients and SPF 50 for utmost protection from the sun's harmful UVA and UVB rays. What makes it earn the title of the safest spray sunscreen is its octinoxate and oxybenzone free formula. If you are someone who loves summer and outdoor adventures, then this water-resistant and oil-free broad-spectrum sunscreen is absolutely meant for you. 

Key Ingredients: Vitamin E, avobenzone, homosalate, octocrylene, and octisalate 

Skin Type: All

Size: 6 oz

Pros
  • Vegan
  • Gluten-free
  • Cruelty-free
  • Effortless application
  • Dermatologically tested
  • Reasonably priced
  • Non-comedogenic
Cons
  • Fragile sprayer
  • Best Breathable Formula

    Banana Boat Sport Ultra SPF 30 Sunscreen Spray

    Banana Boat Sport Ultra SPF 30 Sunscreen Spray
  • Moving on, it's the Sport Ultra SPF 30 Sunscreen Spray from Banana Boat that deserves applause for its splendid lightweight and breathable formulation. It promises to lend you maximum sun protection so that you can frolic around in utmost merriment for hours. The reason behind it being one of the favorite sunscreens among users is its non-greasy feel. Additionally, it is a really good spray sunscreen to rely on for superior endurance against sweat and water. For those who have an active lifestyle — this oil-free sunscreen spray is meant to be your BFF! 

    Key Ingredients: Avobenzone 2.0%, homosalate 6.0%, and octocrylene 6.0%

    Skin Type: All

    Size: 6 oz each

    Pros
    • Pack of 2
    • Easy to use
    • Long-lasting
    • Water-resistant
    • Oxybenzone-free
    • Smells good
    • Lasts long
    Cons
    • Not reef-friendly
  • Best Oil-free Sunscreen

    Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Body Mist Sunscreen

    Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Body Mist Sunscreen
  • With SPF 70 and Dry-Touch technology, Neutrogena’s Body Mist Sunscreen will never let the skin-aging UVA and UVB rays bother your skin. Whether you love gardening, hiking, or biking under the sun, a spritz of this sunscreen will reduce the risk of sunburn and sun damage. Secondly, this top-rated spray sunscreen features a weightless and quick-absorbent formula, eliminating greasiness and irritation. It is also non-comedogenic, hence, there is no chance of your pores getting clogged! 

    Key Ingredients: Avobenzone 3%, homosalate 15%, octisalate 5%, and octocrylene 10%

    Skin Type: All

    Size: 5 oz each

    Pros
    • Unscented
    • Oil-free
    • No-mess application
    • Water-resistant for 60 minutes
    • Recommended by dermatologists
    • Protects against early signs of aging
    Cons
    • Unsatisfactory packaging
  • Most Cost-effective

    Coppertone Sport 100 4-in-1 Performance Sunscreen Spray

    Coppertone Sport 100 4-in-1 Performance Sunscreen Spray
  • As long as you have Coppertone’s Sunscreen Spray in your skincare regime, UV rays will never hamper the quality of your skin. All credit goes to its whooping SPF 100, which promises maximum sun protection. Plus, it is resistant to sweat, heat, and straight water! Right at the first spritz, you will admire its weightless, non-greasy, and breathable formula.

    We also glanced through the review section and here is what a user has to say, “The best sprayable sunscreen, you can hardly tell that I spent a week on vacation at a beach destination, sunbathed without worries and it didn't affect my skin.”

    Key Ingredients: Avobenzone, homosalate, octisalate, and octocrylene

    Skin Type: All

    Size: 5.5 oz

    Pros
    • Cost-effective
    • Hassle-free sprayer
    • Water-resistant upto 80 minutes
    • Moisturizes the skin
    • Dye-free
    Cons
    • Might peel off

    Quick Tip:

    Shake well before each use and apply liberally 15 minutes before sun exposure. For better results and added protection reapply after every 2 hours.

  • Best Lotion-like Texture

    La Roche-Posay Anthelios Spray Lotion Sunscreen

    La Roche-Posay Anthelios Spray Lotion Sunscreen
  • For anyone inclined toward using lotions to keep their skin moisturized and protected from the sun, La Roche-Posay’s Anthelios Spray Lotion Sunscreen can be your ideal pick. With SPF 60 and UVA/UVB filters, it not only promises to shield your skin from UV rays but also aims to protect it from free radicals.

    Secondly, it is enriched with Cell-Ox Shield antioxidant technology to provide broad-spectrum protection. Because of its lasting comfort and non-greasy finish, users and skincare enthusiasts label it as the best spray sun lotion.

    Key Ingredients: Vitamin E, glycerin, and dimethicone, and  La Roche-Posay Thermal Spring Water

    Skin Type: All

    Size: 5 oz

    Pros
    • Oil-free
    • Non-comedogenic
    • Allergy-tested
    • Fragrance-free
    • Water-resistant
    • Suitable for sensitive skin
    Cons
    • Little thick in texture
  • Best Hypoallergenic Formula

    Coola Classic Sunscreen Spray

    Coola Classic Sunscreen Spray
  • This Classic Sunscreen Spray, introduced by Coola, is a vegan and cruelty-free sunscreen packed with a luxe blend of organic ingredients. With broad-spectrum SPF 30, it aids in shielding your skin from harmful UV rays. Since it is ultra-light in weight, it flawlessly hydrates and nourishes your skin.

    What we like the most is the fact that it smells like a tropical cocktail and refreshes the mood with every spritz. A happy user shares, “It’s great that it is reef-safe, which was very important to me! I always strive to find environmentally safe products, and this was perfect!

    Key Ingredients: Avobenzone, octisalate, and octocrylene 

    Skin Type: All

    Size: 6 oz

    Pros
    • Gluten-free
    • Vegan
    • Paraben-free
    • Reef-friendly
    • Hypoallergenic
    Cons
    • Scent may not appeal to all
  • Most Moisturizing

    Hawaiian Tropic Silk Hydration Clear Spray Sunscreen

    Hawaiian Tropic Silk Hydration Clear Spray Sunscreen
  • If you are among those who seek a moisturizing sunscreen, then Hawaiian’s Tropic Silk Hydration Clear Spray Sunscreen is your best find! It promises to offer up to 12 hours of moisturize along with SPF 15 to safeguard your skin from harmful UV rays of the sun.

    What’s the best part? It is completely light in weight and dries invisible. The reason behind it seizing a place in the category of the best sunblock spray is its fast-absorbing formula and light coverage. 

    Key Ingredients: Avobenzone, homosalate, octisalate, and octocrylene 

    Skin Type: Not mentioned 

    Size: 6 oz

    Pros
    • Oxybenzone-free
    • Pack of 2
    • Light tropical scent
    • Tested by dermatologists
    • Mess-free application
    Cons
    • Prone to leakage
  • Best Smooth Finish

    Bare Republic Clearscreen

    Bare Republic Clearscreen
  • Enriched with natural ingredients, Bare Republic Clearscreen works towards providing high-performance sun protection with its transparent finish and invisible formula. Adding to that, its non-greasy texture and antioxidant properties bowled us over. We also appreciate how the sunscreen spray is proudly free of synthetic fragrances and harsh chemicals.

    Plus, this effective, easy-to-use, and super convenient sun protection solution is environmentally friendly. The cherry on top — it smells divine, doesn’t leave residues behind, and never stains clothes! 

    Key Ingredients: Avobenzone, homosalate, octisalate, octocrylene, Vitamin E, and raspberry

    Skin Type: Not mentioned

    Size: 6 oz

    Pros
    • Cruelty-free
    • Water-resistant
    • Pack of 2
    • Paraben-free
    • Dermatologist-tested
    • Invisible finish
    Cons
    • Little pricey
  • Best Non-sticky Texture

    EltaMD UV AOX Mist Broad Spectrum SPF 40

    EltaMD UV AOX Mist Broad Spectrum SPF 40
  • This face and body sunscreen mist from EltaMD works wonders on the skin —  with its broad-spectrum SPF 40, it helps reduce premature photo-aging along with protecting your skin from UVA/UVB rays. Based on user feedback, this is the best spray sunscreen for the face and body which is easy to apply and with no white cast visible.

    A reviewer on Amazon also shares, “This sunblock is spray on and takes just a little to cover a lot. It blocks out all the burning rays so you don’t have to worry about your skin. I have awful skin damage from years on my body, but this really does work. Try it, you’ll like it”

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

    Skin Type: All

    Size: 5 oz

    Pros
    • Non-sticky
    • Doesn’t clog pores
    • Travel-friendly
    • Unscented
    • Excellent coverage
    Cons
    • Leaves a white cast

    Quick Tip:

    Avoid spraying it directly on your face. Spray the sunscreen into your hands and then rub it onto your face, avoiding your eyes and mouth.

  • Best for Sheer Protection

    MDSolarSciences Quick Dry Body Spray SPF 40

    MDSolarSciences Quick Dry Body Spray SPF 40
  • Here comes yet another fast-drying sunscreen body spray from a renowned brand, MDSolarSciences. It is mindfully developed by dermatologists, and hence, you need not worry about its formulation. It is bound to deliver the results while taking due care of your skin. What’s worth noticing? This spray is equipped with a non-aerosol 360-degree continuous spray that guarantees even application. Moreover, with adequate sun protection, it also shields your skin from free radicals. We also appreciate the fact that it is vegan, hypoallergenic, and lightweight.

    Key Ingredients: Avobenzone, octisalate, and octocrylene

    Skin Type: All

    Size: 6 oz

    Pros
    • Vegan
    • Non-sticky finish
    • Sustainable packaging
    • Water-resistant for up to 80 minutes
    • Cruelty-free
    Cons
    • Prone to leakage
  • Supergoop! Play Antioxidant Body Mist

    Supergoop! Play Antioxidant Body Mist
  • Lastly, we recommend Supergoop! Play Antioxidant Body Mist, which is powered with SPF 30 for utmost sun protection and skin care. It is one of the best non-aerosol sunscreens, which has managed to impress thousands of skincare enthusiasts with its high-performance and feel-good formula. Right at the first use, you will really adore the sunscreen’s non-greasy feel and quick-absorbent texture. Another standout feature is its unique bag-on-valve technology, which works on air so that you also get to indulge in the last drop of SPF. The best part — it is resistant to sweat and water and can be applied on wet skin!

    Key Ingredients: Vitamin C, avobenzone, homosalate, octisalate,  and octocrylene 

    Skin Type: Dry

    Size: 6 oz

    Pros
    • Vegan
    • Hydrates the skin
    • Doesn’t feel greasy
    • Absorbs easily
    Cons
    • Fragile sprayer

    That was our comprehensive list of the best spray sunscreens. Now, let us run you through a detailed buying guide.

    How to Select the Best Sunscreen Spray?

    Here are a few aspects that you should consider before splurging on the best spray-on sunscreen:

    Skin Type: Make sure you analyze your skin type before investing in the best mineral sunscreen spray or a chemical one. Understand your skin sensitivity and then make a decision. If you have oily skin, get your hands on an oil-free and non-comedogenic sunscreen. Likewise, for those who have dry skin, a hydrating or moisturizing sunscreen can be a great choice to consider.

    Ingredients: Check the list of key ingredients before buying a spray sunscreen. Mineral sunscreen sprays are infused with zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, which further form a broad spectrum filter. On the other hand, chemical sunscreens are typically enriched with chemicals, including oxybenzone, octinoxate, homosalate, and avobenzone to block UV rays. You will also come across sunscreen sprays loaded with vitamin C, antioxidants, and natural ingredients like coconut, Indian gooseberry, coconut, aloe vera, etc. Such sunscreens are hydrating and safe for your skin type. 

    Choose the Right SPF Level: When it comes to sun protection, checking the SPF level is of great importance. If you are someone who spends the majority of the time under the sun, then pick a sunscreen spray that has high SPF levels and provides broad-spectrum protection, for say 40, 50, 70, or even 100. On the contrary, if you require minimum to moderate sun protection coverage, choose water-resistant sunscreens ranging between 15 to 35 with no health risks.

    Formula: Always pay heed to the formula of the sunscreen spray. It is advisable to pick the one that is sweat and water-resistant, featuring a non-greasy and quick-absorbent formula. 

    Other Features: Check for some additional features like fragrance, skin hydration, or whether it dries invisible. 

    After taking note of the above-mentioned aspects, get to know a few tips for applying the best sunscreen spray for the face.

    Tips And Tips to Use a Spray Sunscreen

    Make sure that you don’t spray the sunscreen directly on your face. It may irritate or burn your eyes. 

    Protect your lungs, as breathing a sunscreen spray excessively can cause adverse effects. 

    Avoid spraying the sunscreen directly on the skin of your kids. They may inhale or squirm it when sprayed. Spray it into your hands and then rub it onto your child’s skin.

    Ensure that you hold the nozzle at an appreciative distance from your skin. Spray generously without leaving any spots or areas. Don’t hold it too far or too close. 

    Rub it in thoroughly, at least for 10 seconds, for an even coverage. 

    Avoid sprays on windy days, as the sunscreen may get lost in the air. Consider spraying it on your hands in such cases.

    Conclusion

    With one of the best spray sunscreens at your disposal, protecting your skin from harmful rays will be a matter of seconds. Whether you prefer a moisturizing formula, non-greasy application, or high SPF levels, spray sunscreen is going to work just like ordinary SPF-infused creams and lotions. 

    Prioritizing sun protection is crucial for maintaining healthy and radiant skin, especially when you have an active lifestyle. Hence, we created this fanciful list of spray sunscreens for you. We considered texture, formula, and ingredients, and also analyzed the ratings and customer reviews to help you make a wise decision. From the list, it was Sun Bum Premium Moisturizing Sunscreen Spray, that seized the top-most position with its exceptional way of working. So, without further ado, get yourself one and plan exciting outdoor activities without any fear of the sun.

    FAQ's

    Is a spray sunscreen as effective as lotion?
    Yes, as long as you use a spray sunscreen effectively, it works just like your lotions with SPF.
    Is there a spray sunscreen that is safe to use?
    Yes, a spray sunscreen is safe to use, but due to excessive use or inhalation, it may cause lung irritation.
    Is a spray sunscreen water-resistant?
    Yes, most spray sunscreens are water-resistant for up to 80 minutes.
    How long does spray sunscreen take to dry completely?
    It depends on the formula of the spray sunscreen. Some may dry quickly whereas a few can take time.
    How often should one reapply a spray sunscreen?
    You should reapply spray sunscreen every 2 hours for adequate protection.
    Do you have to rub the spray sunscreen?
    For even coverage, you can rub the spray sunscreen.
    Can you use a spray sunscreen over lotion or cream?
    Yes, you can use a spray sunscreen once the lotion or cream is fully absorbed.
    Is a mineral spray sunscreen better than a chemical one?
    Mineral spray sunscreens are better than chemical ones, as they do not contain any kind of chemicals. Also, if you possess sensitive or acne-prone skin, mineral sunscreens are better and safe to use.
    Do dermatologists recommend spraying sunscreen?
    Yes, dermatologists do recommend spraying sunscreen as it is quicker and easier to use.

    Why Trust Pinkvilla

    Our certified skincare expert, Anoushka, has meticulously researched the best sunscreen sprays that are easy to use, effective, and convenient. She believes that a spray sunscreen, be it mineral or chemical is as effective as creams and lotions with SPF. From the above list, Banana Boat Sport Ultra SPF 30 Sunscreen Spray got her attention for the longest time. Its weightless and breathable formula left her completely impressed. You can go through the rest of her top picks and incorporate the best one into your regime. 

    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