Any dermatologist will tell you: Wearing sunscreen every day is essential, no matter the season. Spray sunscreens make reapplication quick and easy, whether you’re cycling, heading to the beach, or just staying indoors. The trick—as with sunscreen sticks—is applying enough product to get proper protection.
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
Dr. Arjun Dupati, a board-certified dermatologist, prefers spraying sunscreen into his hands first before applying it. “This avoids inhalation and lets me see exactly where I’ve applied it,” he explains. He recommends SPF 30 or higher for daily use and SPF 70+ for intense sun exposure, like beach days. (His personal pick? Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Body Mist.)
Quick Tips:
– Spray sunscreens work well if applied properly.
– Use travel sizes to test different brands before committing.
– Reapply often, especially after sweating or swimming.
### Best for Workouts: Supergoop! Play Antioxidant Mist
Why We Love It:
Dermatologists love this SPF 50 mist for active days—it’s water-resistant and packed with antioxidants like vitamin C, green tea, and acai to fight sun damage. The fine mist works on wet or dry skin, making reapplication a breeze.
Key Details:
– Type: Chemical (avobenzone, homosalate, octisalate, octocrylene)
– Water-Resistant: Yes
– Size: 6 oz
Pros: Antioxidant-rich, fragrance-free, easy to apply.
Cons: Some find it slightly greasy.
### Best Over Makeup: Habit No. 41 Floral Botanic Mister
Why We Love It:
This ultra-fine mist is perfect for touch-ups over makeup. With SPF 41 and a botanical formula, it won’t smudge your look—just spritz and go.
Key Details:
– Type: Chemical
– Water-Resistant: No
– Size: 2.5 oz
Pros: Lightweight, no rubbing needed, great for on-the-go.
Cons: Not water-resistant.
Remember: No matter which spray you choose, reapply regularly for full protection!If you enjoy sunscreen that smells like a spa day, this formula is worth trying. Its floral-botanical blend features geranium, rosemary, and lavender. Vogue contributor Akili King used this SPF all summer, taking it from the tennis court to home and back. “It instantly cooled my skin after playing tennis on a scorching afternoon,” she wrote. “Beyond protecting against skin cancer and hyperpigmentation, that refreshing feel gave me even more reason to reapply throughout the day.”
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
Size: 0.9 oz
Love It: Works well over makeup (no white cast), chic packaging, pleasant scent
Leave It: SPF is on the lower side, not ideal for body use
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### Best for Antioxidants: Soleil Toujours Clean Conscious Set + Protect Micro Mist
Price: $42 (Dermstore)
Why We Love It: If you prefer a more organic SPF, this one delivers. Enriched with algae extracts for hydration, green tea to fight free radicals, and aloe vera to soothe, Dr. Collins says, “This reef-safe formula is packed with antioxidants—great for sensitive skin seeking clean, protective ingredients.” Designed to set makeup while shielding skin, the 70% organic formula has a matte finish that keeps shine in check, even on sweaty 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 (80 minutes)
SPF Level: 30
Spray Type: Micro-mist
Size: 1.7 fl oz
Love It: 70% organic, water-resistant, weightless feel
Leave It: Small size, face-only, relatively low SPF
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### Best for Sensitive Skin: La Roche-Posay Anthelios Spray Lotion Sunscreen
Price: $27 (Amazon)
Why We Love It: “Dermatologist-trusted, this spray offers strong SPF 60 protection in a non-greasy, fast-absorbing formula,” says Dr. Collins. “Infused with thermal spring water, it’s ideal for sensitive or acne-prone skin.” Featuring Cell-Ox Shield Technology—a mix of UVA/UVB filters and antioxidants—this French favorite works for face and body. It’s water-resistant for 80 minutes, making it perfect for beach or pool days.
Chemical or Mineral: Chemical (avobenzone, homosalate, octisalate, octocrylene, oxybenzone)
Key Ingredients: Cell-Ox Shield Technology, thermal spring water
Water-Resistant: Yes (80 minutes)
SPF Level: 60
Spray Type: Lotion spray
Size: 5 oz
Love It: High SPF, water-resistant, soothing for sensitive skin
Leave It: Some users report uneven spray
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### Best for Beach Days: Vacation Classic Spray SPF 30
Price: $19 (Blue Mercury, Nordstrom)
Why We Love It: With retro ’80s packaging and a coconut-banana scent that evokes poolside nostalgia, this spray isn’t just fun—it’s functional. “Beyond the scent, it provides reliable broad-spectrum coverage in an easy mist,” says Dr. Collins. “Lightweight and water-resistant, it’s perfect for the beach.” The formula includes hydrating coconut oil, softening shea oil, and banana extract for extra antioxidants (and that tropical pina colada aroma).
Dr. Rachel Day, a board-certified dermatologist, adds: “I love this sunscreen because it’s effective without feeling heavy or sticky.”
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Protection—It’s packed with hydrating oils that leave skin feeling soft, not sticky. She adds that the formula sprays on lightly 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: Classic tropical scent, generously sized
Leave It: Relatively low SPF level
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### Best for Outdoor Activities: Shiseido Ultimate Sun Protector Spray
Shiseido Ultimate Sun Protector Spray
$38 at Nordstrom
Why We Love It: “This sunscreen spray adapts to heat and water exposure, making it great for outdoor activities,” Dr. Collins says. “It also includes skincare benefits like hydration and antioxidants, which helps skin health over time.” The formula contains Shiseido’s SuperVeil-UV 360 Technology, designed to spread SPF evenly for full UVA/UVB coverage. Another key ingredient, the patented NatureSurge Complex, includes green tea extract to protect 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: Packed with botanical antioxidants, hydrating, dermatologist- and ophthalmologist-tested
Leave It: Some users find it a bit difficult to wash off
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### Best for Acne-Prone Skin: MD SolarSciences Quick Dry Body Spray
MD SolarSciences Quick Dry Body Spray
$24 ($18 at Amazon)
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’s a clean, non-comedogenic option that’s great for acne-prone or sensitive skin,” she adds. The sunscreen also contains phytic acid, which gently exfoliates, brightens, and boosts the formula’s antioxidant effectiveness. The non-aerosol spray delivers even 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: Lightweight, gentle on sensitive skin, packed with antioxidants
Leave It: Some notice a slight alcohol smell at first, but it fades as the product dries
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### Best for the Scalp: Coola Scalp & Hair Mist Sunscreen
Coola Ocean Salt & Sage Hair Mist
$28 at Nordstrom
Why We Love It: “Many people forget to protect their scalp from the sun. Coola’s Scalp & Hair Mist SPF 30 is a smart, non-greasy solution that shields this exposed area without weighing hair down,” Dr. Day says. With hydrating antioxidants like monoi oil, it protects against UV damage while supporting scalp health, Dr. Collins adds. “It’s a great daily choice, especially for those with thinning hair or visible part lines.” Plus, it has a refreshing ocean-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 for even misting
Size: 2 oz
Love It: Protects hair and scalp
Leave It: SPF is on the lower side—not a full face-and-body solution
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### Best for Dry Skin: Sun Bum Premium Moisturizing Sunscreen Spray
Sun Bum SPF 50 Sunscreen Body Spray
$18 ($14 at Amazon)
Why We Love It: “With its nourishing formula and pleasant scent, this spray provides effective…”
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Broad-spectrum protection with moisturizing ingredients like vitamin E and aloe, says Dr. Collins. It’s great for dry or sun-exposed skin. Dr. Jeannette Graf, a board-certified dermatologist in New York, also recommends the banana-scented sunscreen. This Sun Bum formula is enriched with vitamin E and hydrating ingredients, so it won’t dry out your skin like some spray sunscreens can, she explains. It’s perfect for families or anyone looking for reef-safe, non-comedogenic sun care.
Type: Chemical (avobenzone 3%, homosalate 15%, octisalate 5%, octocrylene 7%)
Key Ingredients: Vitamin E
Water-Resistant: Yes, for 80 minutes
SPF: 50
Spray Type: Free of chemical propellants, dispensed via a B.O.V. (bag-on-valve) system
Size: 6 oz
Pros: Tropical scent, moisturizing, water-resistant
Cons: Some users find the texture slightly greasy
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### Best Tropical Scent: Sol de Janeiro Radiance SPF 50 Body Spray
Why We Love It: This sunscreen gives a luminous glow while providing SPF 50 protection, says Collins. It’s ideal for those who want a subtle shimmer along with strong sun defense, and the scent makes reapplying feel luxurious. Graf also praises the formula: This is a great choice for anyone who wants extra radiance with sun protection. She notes that the shimmer is subtle, not glittery, and the broad-spectrum SPF 50 formula includes nourishing ingredients like niacinamide and antioxidants. You get skincare benefits while wearing it, she adds. The Chierosa 87 scent—a blend of tuberose, coconut milk, and warm sand—evokes a beachside cabana vibe.
Type: Chemical
Key Ingredients: Niacinamide, coconut water, pitanga extract, pongamia seed extract
Water-Resistant: Yes, for up to 40 minutes
SPF: 50
Spray Type: Non-aerosol
Size: 6.7 oz
Pros: Generous size
Cons: Some users report nozzle issues
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### Best Drugstore Pick: Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Body Mist Sunscreen
Why We Love It: A drugstore favorite, this dermatologist-recommended formula offers reliable protection with a lightweight, dry finish that won’t clog pores or irritate sensitive skin, says Collins. Dr. Dupati also swears by it: Neutrogena’s scientists really nailed it with this one—it’s gentle and works for all skin types. He personally uses it for beach days and outdoor runs. Graf agrees: The Ultra Sheer line is a dermatologist favorite—lightweight, non-comedogenic, and water-resistant. The non-greasy formula suits most skin types.
Type: Chemical (avobenzone, homosalate, octisalate, octocrylene)
Key Ingredients: Vitamin E, Helioplex
Water-Resistant: Yes, for 80 minutes
SPF: 70
Spray Type: Lightweight, non-greasy mist
Size: 5 oz
Pros: Widely available, dermatologist-approved
Cons: Some notice a slight shine
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### Best Over Makeup: Naked Sundays Hydrating Glow Mist Top-Up Spray
Why We Love It: Designed for reapplying over makeup, this spray includes hyaluronic acid for hydration and gives a dewy finish, says Collins. It’s a convenient way to maintain SPF throughout the day. Graf also recommends it: If you’re on the go or wear makeup daily, a mist SPF like this is a smart choice.
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Let me know if you’d like any further refinements!Here’s a natural and fluent rewrite of your text while keeping the meaning intact:
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Product 1:
This hydrating sunscreen mist makes touch-ups easy throughout the day without smudging your makeup or needing a mirror. The formula contains hyaluronic acid for moisture, kakadu plum to reduce signs of aging and puffiness, and watermelon extract for a sweet, juicy scent.
– Type: Chemical (avobenzone, homosalate, octocrylene)
– Key Ingredients: Kakadu plum, hyaluronic acid, watermelon extract
– Water-Resistant: No
– SPF: 50+
– Spray Type: Face mist
– Size: 2.53 oz
Pros: Moisturizing, dewy finish
Cons: May be too shiny for oily skin
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Best Reef-Safe Option: Bask Non-Aerosol Invisible Mist Sunscreen
Why We Love It:
This clean, reef-safe sunscreen offers broad-spectrum SPF in a non-aerosol pump that still delivers a fine mist. It’s great for eco-conscious users and has a lightweight, non-sticky finish. The coconut-vanilla scent evokes vacation vibes, and the water-resistant formula is perfect for poolside or beach use.
– Type: Chemical (avobenzone 3%, homosalate 10%, octisalate 5%, octocrylene 5%)
– Key Ingredients: SD alcohol 40-B, tocopheryl acetate, VA/butyl maleate/isobornyl acrylate copolymer
– Water-Resistant: Yes (80 minutes)
– SPF: 50
– Spray Type: Non-aerosol, continuous mist
– Size: 5.5 oz
Pros: Reef-safe, non-sticky, easy-to-use pump
Cons: Some users report spray malfunctions
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Best for Hydration: Kopari Sunglaze Sheer Body Mist Sunscreen SPF 42
Why We Love It:
With a coconut water base and hydrating ingredients like vitamin C and hyaluronic acid, this mist provides SPF 42 with a sheer, radiant finish. It’s ideal for dry skin or anyone who wants a glowing look with sun protection. The formula includes rose-gold glitter for a subtle shimmer and has a luxurious coconut-milk scent.
– Type: Chemical (avobenzone 3%, homosalate 0.5%, octisalate 5%, octocrylene 10%)
– Key Ingredients: Vitamin C, vitamin E, hyaluronic acid
– Water-Resistant: Yes (80 minutes)
– SPF: 42
– Spray Type: Non-aerosol mist
– Size: 4.7 oz
Pros: Hydrating, adds radiance
Cons: Some users report issues with the spray mechanism
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### Everything You Need to Know
Do spray sunscreens actually work?
Yes! Spray sunscreens are effective, especially for high SPF protection during extended outdoor time. Just like lotions, they should be reapplied every two hours, especially after sweating or swimming.
How much spray sunscreen should you apply?
For full-body coverage, spray each area for about six seconds until the skin looks visibly wet, then rub it in. Reapply every two hours for best protection.
What to Look for in a Sunscreen Spray:
– Broad-spectrum protection
– SPF 30 or higher
– Water-resistant if swimming or active
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Let me know if you’d like any further refinements!Look for moisturizers with antioxidants and hydrating ingredients like glycerin or hyaluronic acid. If you have sensitive skin, choose products with minimal fragrance or alcohol.
### Meet the Experts
Kristina Collins, MD, FAAD
A double board-certified dermatologist and Mohs surgeon based in Austin, Texas.
Rachel Day, MD
A board-certified dermatologist and chief medical officer at Zest Health, a virtual dermatology clinic specializing in psoriasis and eczema.
Arjun Dupati, MD
A board-certified dermatologist and Mohs surgeon practicing in Michigan.
Jeannette Graf, MD
A board-certified dermatologist and assistant clinical professor of dermatology at Mt. Sinai School of Medicine.