As the sunny days of 2024 approach, ensuring proper sun protection becomes essential in your daily skincare routine. Many of us may not love adding extra steps to our regimen, especially those that leave us greasy or sticky.
That’s where spray sunscreens come to the rescue. These convenient, quick-application products provide the necessary sun protection without the hassle. They are handy for covering large or hard-to-reach areas, including the scalp, and offer a less greasy alternative to traditional lotions.
In our quest to find the best sunscreens, we tested numerous products recommended by dermatologists over six months. We focused on essential attributes such as lightweight consistency, quick absorption, no white cast, and broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher.
Our evaluations have led us to identify the top 15 spray sunscreens for 2024 that provide adequate sun protection while being easy to apply. Whether you need something that suits sensitive skin, complements your makeup routine, or offers robust water resistance, this list covers you.
Here are the best sunscreen sprays for your face in 2024, ensuring you stay protected and radiant all year round.
1. Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Body Mist Sunscreen (SPF 70)
Neutrogena’s Ultra Sheer Body Mist is highly recommended for its convenience and effectiveness. It provides excellent UV protection with an SPF of 70, protecting your skin from harmful rays. The spray is lightweight, dries quickly, and leaves no greasy residue, making it perfect for everyday use.
It’s especially ideal for those who need a quick application without the hassle of rubbing in a thick cream. Dermatologists, including Dr. Zaineb H. Makhzoumi from the University of Maryland Medical Center, praise its affordability and efficacy.
It offers broad-spectrum protection with active ingredients like avobenzone, homosalate, octisalate, octocrylene, and oxybenzone. The product is water-resistant for up to 80 minutes, making it an excellent option for outdoor activities. However, it may not be suitable for those with sensitive skin due to its chemical formulation.
Key Specs:
- Active Ingredients: Avobenzone, homosalate, octisalate, octocrylene, oxybenzone
- SPF: 70
- Water-resistant: 80 minutes
- Size: 5 oz.
- Pros: Nongreasy, dries quickly, water-resistant for up to 80 minutes
- Cons: May not be suitable for sensitive skin
2. Sun Bum Mineral Sunscreen Spray (SPF 30 or 50)
Sun Bum’s Mineral Sunscreen Spray is a budget-friendly option that does not compromise quality. Available in SPF 30 and 50, this mineral-based formula is moisturizing and free from fragrances, making it ideal for sensitive skin.
It provides adequate protection without leaving the skin dry or irritated. The zinc oxide formulation ensures broad-spectrum protection against UVA and UVB rays. Although it may leave a slight white cast, especially on darker skin tones, it rubs in relatively well.
This sunscreen is water-resistant for up to 80 minutes, making it suitable for beach days and outdoor sports. Its larger 6 oz. Size offers more products than other sprays, providing better value for money. Overall, it’s a reliable and accessible choice for those seeking a mineral-based sunscreen.
Key Specs:
- Active Ingredient: Zinc oxide
- SPF: 30 or 50
- Water-resistant: 80 minutes
- Size: 6 oz.
- Pros: Water-resistant, available in different SPFs, slightly larger size
- Cons: May leave a white cast
3. EltaMD UV AOX Mist Mineral Sunscreen (SPF 40)
EltaMD UV AOX Mist is a favorite among dermatologists for its all-mineral formulation, which includes zinc oxide. This sunscreen provides smooth, silky coverage without leaving a white cast, making it perfect for those with sensitive skin.
It sprays on white but rubs in clear, offering excellent overall coverage. Dermatologists highlight its ease of application and adequate protection. This sunscreen is water-resistant for up to 40 minutes, making it a good choice for short outdoor activities.
It’s lightweight and moisturizing, ensuring your skin feels comfortable throughout the day. However, it does require some effort to rub in thoroughly, which might be a minor inconvenience for some users. Despite this, its mineral-based formula makes it a top pick for those looking for a non-chemical option.
Key Specs:
- Active Ingredient: Zinc oxide
- SPF: 40
- Water-resistant: 40 minutes
- Size: 5 oz.
- Pros: No white residue, mineral formula, water-resistant
- Cons: Requires rubbing in
4. Blue Lizard Sensitive Mineral Sunscreen Spray (SPF 50+)
Blue Lizard’s Sensitive Mineral Sunscreen Spray is mineral-based, fragrance-free, and does not contain phthalates or parabens. It is designed for both children and adults with sensitive skin. This sunscreen feels more like a lotion and does not leave the skin shiny, greasy, or sticky.
The doctor recommends it for its gentle formulation and adequate sun protection. The zinc oxide ingredient ensures broad-spectrum SPF 50+ protection. It’s also water-resistant for up to 80 minutes, making it suitable for prolonged outdoor activities.
While it may require some rubbing to blend in thoroughly, it’s well-tolerated by sensitive skin and does not cause irritation or breakouts. This makes it an excellent choice for those needing reliable sun protection without compromising skin comfort.
Key Specs:
- Active Ingredient: Zinc oxide
- SPF: 50+
- Water-resistant: 80 minutes
- Size: 5 oz.
- Pros: Mineral formula, safe for sensitive skin, water-resistant
- Cons: It takes some effort to rub in
5. La Roche-Posay Anthelios Ultra-Light Spray Lotion Sunscreen (SPF 60)
La Roche-Posay Anthelios Ultra-Light Spray is an oil-free, lightweight sunscreen perfect for oily and sensitive skin. It provides broad-spectrum protection with an SPF of 60 and absorbs quickly without leaving a greasy feel.
This makes it ideal for those with oily skin who need a non-comedogenic option. The doctor recommends it for its nongreasy texture and effectiveness. The formulation includes avobenzone, homosalate, octisalate, octocrylene, and oxybenzone, offering comprehensive UV protection.
The product is water-resistant for up to 80 minutes, suitable for swimming and outdoor activities. However, users should apply it carefully around the eyes, as it can cause stinging. Despite this minor drawback, its quick absorption and lightweight feel make it a top choice for oily skin.
Key Specs:
- Active Ingredients: Avobenzone, homosalate, octisalate, octocrylene, oxybenzone
- SPF: 60
- Water-resistant: 80 minutes
- Size: 5 oz.
- Pros: Oil-free, lightweight, water-resistant
- Cons: Can sting eyes
6. Hampton Sun Continuous Mist Sunscreen (SPF 50)
Hampton Sun’s Continuous Mist Sunscreen is a non-aerosol option for acne-prone skin. It’s oil-free, hypoallergenic, and water-resistant for 80 minutes. This sunscreen is also hypoallergenic, making it suitable for sensitive skin.
The Doctor highlights its bag-on-valve technology, ensuring even distribution without harsh propellants. The formulation includes avobenzone, homosalate, octisalate, and octocrylene, providing broad-spectrum protection. Although it’s pricier than some alternatives, its high SPF 50 and non-aerosol application make it a worthwhile investment for those with acne-prone skin.
It’s fast-absorbing and leaves no greasy residue, making it comfortable to wear throughout the day. The hypoallergenic properties also reduce the risk of breakouts, making it an excellent choice for sensitive and acne-prone skin types.
Key Specs:
- Active Ingredients: Avobenzone, homosalate, octisalate, octocrylene
- SPF: 50
- Water-resistant: 80 minutes
- Size: 5 oz.
- Pros: Non-aerosol, oil-free, water-resistant
- Cons: More expensive
7. Coola Mineral Sunscreen Spray (SPF 30)
Coola’s Mineral Sunscreen Spray is an excellent option for dry skin users. Made with hydrating ingredients like aloe vera, shea butter, and glycerin, it provides excellent sun protection while moisturizing the skin.
However, it may leave a slight white cast, especially on darker skin tones. The Doctor recommends it for its nourishing properties and adequate SPF 30 protection. The zinc oxide and titanium dioxide formulation ensures broad-spectrum coverage.
The product is water-resistant for up to 80 minutes, making it suitable for swimming and outdoor activities. Despite the potential for a white cast, its moisturizing ingredients make it an excellent choice for those with dry skin. The even spray and easy rub-in properties also contribute to its effectiveness and user satisfaction.
Key Specs:
- Active Ingredients: Zinc oxide, titanium dioxide
- SPF: 30
- Water-resistant: 80 minutes
- Size: 5 oz.
- Pros: Hydrating, easy to rub in
- Cons: May leave a white cast
8. Daily Prevention Protect and Refresh Mist (SPF 40)
Daily Prevention Protect and Refresh Mist is a hydrating face mist that offers SPF 40 protection. It’s excellent for dry skin types, adding moisture and UV protection. The formulation includes skin-loving ingredients like meadowfoam seed and buriti fruit oil, making it feel more like skincare than sunscreen.
The Doctor praises its precise, dry oil formulation, allowing easy daily reapplication without ruining makeup. However, it contains alcohol, which might not be suitable for sensitive skin. This mist can be worn under or over makeup, providing flexibility for daily use.
It’s water-resistant for up to 80 minutes, making it a reliable option for extended outdoor activities. Its hydrating and protective properties make it a top choice for facial sun protection.
Key Specs:
- Active Ingredients: Avobenzone, octisalate, octocrylene
- SPF: 40
- Water-resistant: 80 minutes
- Size: 3.4 oz.
- Pros: Hydrating, goes on precise, can be layered with makeup
- Cons: May not be suitable for sensitive skin
9. Coola Suncare Ocean Salted Sage Scalp & Hair Mist (SPF 30)
Coola Suncare Ocean Salted Sage Scalp & Hair Mist provides SPF 30 protection for the scalp and hair. It contains monoi oil, a natural UV protector for hair, and other ingredients like panthenol to prevent breakage and boost shine. The doctor recommends it for its dual benefits of hydrating hair and protecting the scalp. The antioxidant-rich formula helps lock in color and strengthen damaged hair.
Testers noted that it works particularly well on thicker hair, although those with finer hair may find it slightly greasy. This mist is water-resistant for up to 80 minutes, making it suitable for outdoor activities. Its nourishing and protective properties make it an ideal choice for those looking to protect their scalp and hair from sun damage.
Key Specs:
- Active Ingredients: Avobenzone, homosalate, octisalate, octocrylene
- SPF: 30
- Water-resistant: 80 minutes
- Size: 2 oz.
- Pros: Hydrates hair, protects scalp, water-resistant
- Cons: May be greasy for fine hair
10. Supergoop Play Antioxidant Body Mist (SPF 50)
Supergoop Play Antioxidant Body Mist is a favorite among editors and testers for its ease of application and refreshing citrus scent. It offers high SPF 50 protection and is water-resistant for up to 80 minutes. The formula includes avobenzone, homosalate, octisalate, and octocrylene, providing broad-spectrum coverage.
The Doctor highlights its user-friendly application and adequate protection despite its smaller 3 oz. Size, it’s a popular choice for those seeking reliable sun protection. The added citrus oils make it especially appealing for use on humid days.
However, some users might find the scent a bit strong. Its quick absorption and lightweight feel make it a top choice for everyday use, ensuring comprehensive protection without any hassle.
Key Specs:
- Active Ingredients: Avobenzone, homosalate, octisalate, octocrylene
- SPF: 50
- Water-resistant: 80 minutes
- Size: 3 oz.
- Pros: Great scent, high SPF, water-resistant
- Cons: Smaller size
11. Vacation Super Spritz Face Mist (SPF 50)
Vacation Super Spritz Face Mist is a travel-friendly sunscreen with SPF 50 protection. Its 2.2 oz. Size makes it easy to pack, and it’s famous for its tropical scent and adequate security. The formula includes avobenzone, octocrylene, and octisilate, providing broad-spectrum coverage.
The Doctor appreciates its quick-drying, precise application that leaves no white cast. This mist is suitable for all skin types and dries to a matte finish, making it perfect for use over makeup. It’s water-resistant for up to 80 minutes, ensuring reliable protection during outdoor activities.
However, due to its fast-drying nature, users must apply it carefully to avoid missing spots. Its compact size and pleasant scent make it an ideal choice for travel, offering convenient and effective sun protection on the go.
Key Specs:
- Active Ingredients: Avobenzone, octocrylene, octisilate
- SPF: 50
- Water-resistant: 80 minutes
- Size: 2.2 oz.
- Pros: Travel-friendly, dries quickly, great scent
- Cons: Requires careful application
12. Banana Boat Sport 360 Coverage Sunscreen Spray (SPF 50)
Banana Boat Sport 360 Coverage Sunscreen Spray is designed for active lifestyles, offering SPF 50 protection with a fine mist even when applied. It’s water-resistant for up to 80 minutes, making it ideal for sports and outdoor activities.
The Doctor recommends it for its reliable protection and ease of use. The spray can be used at any angle, ensuring comprehensive coverage. It includes homosalate, octocrylene, octisalate, and avobenzone, providing broad-spectrum protection.
The refillable design is environmentally friendly, reducing plastic waste. Although the bottle occasionally gets jammed, a few shakes usually fix the issue. Its quick absorption and lightweight feel make it a favorite among athletes and outdoor enthusiasts, ensuring protection without compromising performance.
Key Specs:
- Active Ingredients: Homosalate, octocrylene, octisalate, avobenzone
- SPF: 50
- Water-resistant: 80 minutes
- Size: 5 oz.
- Pros: Fine mist, refillable packaging, water-resistant
- Cons: Bottle can jam
13. MDSolarSciences Quick Dry Body Spray (SPF 40)
MDSolarSciences Quick Dry Body Spray is known for its ultra-lightweight, fast-absorbing formula. It provides a fine mist that disperses evenly and is water-resistant for up to 80 minutes. The spray includes antioxidants like vitamin C and Indian gooseberry, offering added skin protection.
The Doctor recommends it for its ease of application and quick-drying properties. The 360-degree continuous mist allows easy application, even when the can is upside down. It’s fragrance-free and ideal for those with sensitive skin.
However, some users report occasional issues with the nozzle. Despite this, its lightweight and fast-absorbing nature make it a top choice for those seeking quick and effective sun protection without the greasy feel.
Key Specs:
- Active Ingredients: Avobenzone, octisalate, octocrylene
- SPF: 40
- Water-resistant: 80 minutes
- Size: 6 oz.
- Pros: Fast-absorbing, water-resistant, lightweight
- Cons: Nozzle issues
14. Kopari Beauty Sun Shield Body Glow Gel (SPF 45)
Kopari Beauty’s Sun Shield Body Glow Gel offers SPF 45 protection and gives the skin a radiant glow. It’s completely sheer and feels like a face tanning oil, making it perfect for poolside lounging. However, it’s not water-resistant.
The formulation includes homosalate, octocrylene, octisalate, and avobenzone, providing broad-spectrum protection. The doctor highlights its moisturizing ingredients like coconut, shea, and banana extract. The gel leaves a subtle radiance that sparkles in the sun, making it a favorite for those seeking a sun-kissed look without the tan.
Its tropical scent adds to the appeal, although some users find it oily. Despite this, its moisturizing and protective properties make it an excellent choice for those looking to add a glow to their sun protection routine.
Key Specs:
- Active Ingredients: Homosalate, octocrylene, octisalate, avobenzone
- SPF: 45
- Water-resistant: No
- Size: 5 oz.
- Pros: Great scent, instant glow, moisturizing
- Cons: Oily, not water-resistant
15. Blue Lizard Sensitive Mineral Sunscreen Spray (SPF 50)
Blue Lizard’s Sensitive Mineral Sunscreen Spray is environmentally friendly and suitable for sensitive skin. It provides broad-spectrum SPF 50 protection and is water-resistant for up to 80 minutes. It’s also reef-safe, a significant bonus for those conscious of the environment.
The zinc oxide and titanium dioxide formulation ensures adequate protection without harsh chemicals. The Doctor recommends it for its gentle formulation and eco-friendly properties. While it may leave a white cast, it’s well-tolerated by sensitive skin and does not irritate.
The spray feels like a lotion, providing even coverage without a greasy feel. Its eco-friendly and reef-safe formulation makes it a top choice for those seeking adequate sun protection while mindful of environmental impact.
Key Specs:
- Active Ingredients: Zinc oxide, titanium dioxide
- SPF: 50
- Water-resistant: 80 minutes
- Size: 5 oz.
- Pros: Eco-friendly, reef-safe, water-resistant
- Cons: Leaves a white cast
Takeaways
Choosing the right sunscreen spray for your face is crucial for maintaining healthy skin and protecting against harmful UV rays. From lightweight, fast-absorbing options to those ideal for sensitive or acne-prone skin, the best sunscreen sprays of 2024 offer a variety Of benefits tailored to different needs. Whether you prefer a mineral-based formula or a chemical sunscreen, these top picks ensure you can find the perfect product to keep your skin safe and radiant. Remember to reapply every two hours, especially during prolonged sun exposure, to maintain optimal protection.
