As a beauty editor and esthetician, I spend a lot of time preaching the importance of wearing sunscreen. Fortunately, SPFs have gone through something of an evolution in recent years, and these days I rarely meet anyone who isn’t wearing one every day. From creams and sticks to serums and gels, sun cream now comes in formats to suit every skin type, tone, and concern (yes, SPFs for sensitive skin and sunscreens for dark skin do exist). They’re no longer thick, chalky and clogging, but instead feel light and add glow, meaning people actually enjoy applying and wearing them.
But the big question I’m asked? How do you apply sunscreen? And, more importantly, how do you reapply it? Since most sunscreen is only effective for two hours once applied, reapplication is essential to maintain protection all day. “Sunscreen naturally wears off over time due to factors like sweating, touching your face and environmental exposure,” says consultant dermatologist Emma Wedgeworth. “In addition, ‘incidental sun exposure’, the kind we get from simply being outside, walking to work or sitting by a window, can accumulate and still cause DNA damage, pigmentation and [accelerated skin] ageing. Reapplying ensures that protection stays effective, reducing long-term risk of skin cancers and premature ageing.”
While it’s easy to layer a serum or cream sunscreen on as the final step in your morning skincare routine before you do your makeup (there are lots of great sunscreens to wear under makeup), reapplication isn’t always so easy with these formulas, especially if makeup was worn. The solution? SPF sprays, which are designed specifically for reapplication, often do double duty and help to set makeup, hydrate and cool skin in the process. I’ve been on the hunt to find the best SPF sprays for over a year now, and since I apply it every day, I’ve tried my fair share of spray-on sunscreens. My testing criteria was simple: no white cast, no sticky or greasy feel, no eye sting and no makeup disturbance throughout the day.
Here are all the best SPF sprays that tick the boxes and deliver optimal UV protection.
The Best SPF Sprays, At a Glance
- Best Overall: Heliocare 360 Invisible Spray SPF50
- Best for Over Makeup: Ultra Violette Preen Screen SPF50 Reapplication Spray
- Best for Glow: Naked Sundays SPF50 Hydrating Glow Mist
- Best for On-the-Go: La Roche-Posay Anthelios Anti-Shine Sun Protection Invisible SPF50+ Face Mist
- Best for Dry Skin: Hello Sunday The Retouch One Face Mist SPF 30
How Do You Use an SPF Spray?
According to Wedgeworth, SPF sprays should be used generously and evenly over the skin, making sure no areas are missed. “It’s crucial to hold the spray close enough to ensure full coverage and to rub it in afterwards for even protection—don’t just mist lightly and leave it,” she adds. “For the face, it’s often best to spray it onto your hands first, then apply to avoid inhalation and ensure better coverage.”
What Are the Benefits of SPF Sprays?
“SPF sprays offer a convenient and easy way to top up protection throughout the day, especially when you’re on the go or wearing makeup,” says Wedgeworth. “They can be lightweight, quick to apply and less disruptive to existing skincare or makeup, which encourages regular reapplication—a key factor in maintaining good sun protection.”
What Are the Drawbacks of SPF Sprays?
“The main drawback is that sprays can be easily under-applied. A quick mist often doesn’t give the level of coverage or quantity needed to achieve the advertised SPF level,” explains Wedgeworth. “There’s also the risk of missing areas or uneven application, and potential inhalation if used improperly on the face. It’s important to take a little extra care when applying to make sure you’re properly protected.”
The Best SPF Sprays
1. Heliocare 360° Invisible Spray SPF50+
Best Overall SPF Spray
Heliocare
360° Invisible Spray SPF50+
This one comes highly recommended by Wedgeworth, who personally uses it for sunscreen reapplication. It’s lightweight, hydrating and mists onto skin without disturbing makeup
Pros
- Can be used on face and body
Cons
- Some users find it slightly sticky
2. Ultra Violette Preen Screen SPF50 Reapplication Mist Skinscreen
Ultra Violette
Preen Screen SPF50 Reapplication Mist Skinscreen
Specifically formulated for application over makeup, this does double-duty as a setting spray, helping to lock makeup into place or revive it throughout the day—I love it for combating that inevitable 3pm cakiness. I used this daily during a recent holiday in Australia, and it certainly stood up to the fierce Australian sun.
3. Naked Sundays SPF50 Hydrating Glow Mist
Naked Sundays
SPF50 Hydrating Glow Mist
If you like a super-glowy finish, reach for this SPF spray for top-ups because I can guarantee it won’t mattify your makeup in the slightest.
Cons
- Some users find the glow too intense for oily skin
4. La Roche-Posay Anthelios Anti-Shine Sun Protection Invisible SPF50+ Face Mist
La Roche-Posay
Anthelios Anti-Shine Sun Protection Invisible SPF50+ Face Mist
This is a classic that you’ll find is easy to pick up in most pharmacies and supermarkets. The compact and lightweight bottle is perfect for travelling with or for throwing into your handbag to use on the go.
Pros
- Suitable for sensitive skin
Cons
- The spray mechanism may clog if not cleaned regularly
5. Hello Sunday The Retouch One Face Mist SPF 30
Hello Sunday
The Retouch One Face Mist SPF 30
Although it is only SPF30 (which calls for more frequent reapplication), this one does contain added ingredients to help protect skin from pollution and blue light as well as UV exposure.
Pros
- Provides protection against blue light and environmental stressors
Cons
- Lower SPF compared to other products on the list
6. Skin Cycles Lumina Mist SPF 50
Skin Cycles
Lumina Mist SPF 50
The SPF sprays I tend to reach for again and again are the ones that feel weightless and invisible, and this one absolutely fits the bill. Plus, it features hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid and squalane, which boostthe skin’s glow.
Pros
- Fine mist application ideal for use before or after makeup
7. Bondi Sands SPF 50+ Fragrance Free Face Mist
Best Affordable SPF Spray
Bondi Sands
SPF 50+ Fragrance Free Face Mist
I recommend this affordable SPF spray to my clients who like to shop skincare on a budget. Although it can look and feel present on skin upon application, it soon absorbs, and never seems to cause issues for acne-prone or sensitive skin types.
Pros
- Fragrance-free, making it suitable for sensitive skin
Cons
- May leave a subtle sheen on the skin
8. Garnier Ambre Solaire SPF 50+ Sensitive Advanced Dry Mist Sun Spray
Best SPF Spray for Sensitive Skin
Garnier
Ambre Solaire SPF 50+ Sensitive Advanced Dry Mist Sun Spray
Another affordable sunscreen that gets the job done. This sensitive skin-friendly formula is lightweight, hydrating, and doesn’t leave a white cast
Pros
- Dry mist formula absorbs quickly without leaving residue
Cons
- Some users report a strong alcohol scent
9. Coola Makeup Setting Spray Organic Sunscreen SPF 30
Coola
Makeup Setting Spray Organic Sunscreen SPF 30
If you have no issues with matte formulas, this one might be just right for you. Not only does it mute shine and excess oil, it feels cool and refreshing, and will definitely be in my rotation as it gets warmer.
Pros
- Dual-purpose as a makeup setting spray and SPF protection
Cons
- Lower SPF compared to other options
10. Shiseido Invisible Protective Mist
Best Water-Resistant SPF Spray
Shiseido
Invisible Protective Mist
It can be hard to find SPF sprays that attest to being water-resistant. Luckily, this formula is designed to withstand water and sweat. If you run or play sports outdoors, this is a gym bag essential.
Pros
- Water-resistant and suitable for outdoor activities
Cons
- Some users find the scent to be strong
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