1. Supergoop! PLAY Antioxidant Body Mist SPF 50
Best Overall / Best for Active Days
If you're gonna pick one spray sunscreen to ride with all summer, make it this one. Supergoop! basically wrote the book on making SPF that people actually enjoy wearing, and the PLAY mist is proof. The bag-on-valve technology means you can spray it upside down, sideways, whatever – it just works.
What I love: The non-aerosol formula is powered by air instead of chemical propellants, which is a major win. It's loaded with vitamin C, green tea, and acai extracts that actually do something for your skin beyond just blocking rays. And the fact that you can spray it on wet skin post-swim? Game changer for pool days.
And if you’re looking for formulas that will truly hold up through sweat, swim, and long days outdoors, our Best Waterproof Sport Sunscreens guide highlights top picks that stay protective when water and movement are non-stop.
2. Sun Bum Original Sunscreen Spray SPF 50
Best Budget / Best for Beach Days
Sun Bum is basically the official sunscreen of beach bums everywhere, and honestly? The hype is deserved. This spray smells like summer in a bottle – that iconic coconut scent hits different when you're setting up your towel and cracking open a cold one.
What I love: It's enriched with vitamin E so your skin actually gets some love while being protected. The formula is Hawaii reef compliant (no oxybenzone or octinoxate), which means you can hit the ocean without feeling guilty. And at this price point, you can spray liberally without doing mental math on how much each spritz costs.
3. COOLA Classic Sunscreen Spray SPF 50
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Best Organic / Best Clean Beauty
COOLA said "why choose between effective and clean?" and just made a spray that does both. This one's got 70%+ certified organic ingredients, which is pretty wild for a sunscreen that actually delivers on protection. Available in Guava Mango (smells incredible) or Fragrance-Free if you're not about that scented life.
What I love: The Plant Protection complex with prickly pear, raspberry seed oil, and buriti oil isn't just marketing fluff – these antioxidants genuinely help fight free radicals while you're out there soaking up rays. The continuous spray keeps misting even when the bottle's upside down, and it absorbs fast with zero greasy aftermath.
4. Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Body Mist SPF 70
Best Drugstore / Best High SPF
When your budget says drugstore but your skin says "protect me at all costs," Neutrogena delivers. The SPF 70 in this formula means you're getting serious protection, and the Helioplex technology keeps that protection stable so it doesn't break down in the sun.
What I love: It's genuinely ultra-sheer – like, you spray it on and it practically vanishes. No white cast, no heavy residue, just invisible protection. The oxybenzone-free formula is Hawaii compliant, and at this price, you can stock up for the whole fam without your wallet crying.
And if protecting sensitive marine environments matters to you as much as protecting your skin, don’t miss our Best Reef Safe Sunscreens guide for excellent eco-friendly options.
5. Hawaiian Tropic Weightless Hydration Water Mist SPF 30
Best Hydrating / Best Tropical Scent
Hawaiian Tropic really said "what if sunscreen felt like a refreshing spa moment?" This water-based mist is infused with hyaluronic acid, so you're hydrating while you protect. And that iconic tropical scent? Instant vacation vibes, even if you're just sitting in your backyard.
What I love: The alcohol-free, water-based formula is so lightweight it genuinely feels like nothing on your skin. The non-aerosol pump means you can mist your face without worrying about breathing in stuff, and it blends clear on all skin tones. It's the kind of sunscreen that makes reapplication feel like self-care instead of a chore.
6. Kopari Sunglaze Sheer Setting Mist SPF 50
This recommendation includes a Creator Connections partnership.
Best for Over Makeup / Best Glow
This one went viral for good reason – it's a setting spray and SPF 50 sunscreen in one, with a subtle shimmer that makes your skin look like it's been kissed by golden hour light. If you've ever struggled to reapply sunscreen over a full beat, Kopari just solved your problem.
What I love: The ultra-fine mist is genuinely impressive – it doesn't disturb makeup, period. The hyaluronic acid and vitamin C keep your skin hydrated and glowy, and that subtle shimmer is chef's kiss without looking like you rolled in glitter. Fast-drying and perfect for the girlies who want protection AND a moment. Obsessed with that glow? Our best SPF body oils give you the same radiant finish from the neck down.
7. Vacation Super Spritz Face Mist SPF 50
Best Face Mist / Cult Favorite
Vacation is the brand that made sunscreen cool again, and Super Spritz is their answer to "how do I reapply SPF without ruining my entire face situation?" The fine mist is so luxe it genuinely feels like you're spritzing on something fancy, not just sunscreen.
What I love: It's specifically designed for over-makeup use – the invisible finish doesn't budge your foundation, and it dries to this subtle satin finish that looks intentional. The ingredient list reads like a skincare product (bisabolol, aloe, caffeine, green tea), and the subtle hint of Vacation's signature scent is lowkey addicting.
8. Sun Bum Mineral Sunscreen Spray SPF 50
Best Mineral / Best Reef-Safe
For the mineral sunscreen loyalists who want the convenience of a spray, Sun Bum came through. This zinc-based formula sits on top of your skin to physically block UV rays, which makes it great for sensitive skin types and anyone who wants to avoid reef-damaging ingredients entirely. The qualities that make it a standout here are the same ones we spotlight in our Best Mineral Sunscreens for Face guide, where we break down top mineral options that blend performance with everyday wearability.
What I love: It's 100% mineral protection without the typical thick, pasty texture that makes people run from mineral sunscreens. The matte finish works for oily skin, and it's water resistant for 80 minutes. Plus, the fact that it's genuinely reef-safe means you can snorkel without guilt.
9. Babo Botanicals Sheer Zinc Spray SPF 30
Best for Sensitive Skin / Best for Kids
When your skin freaks out at basically everything, Babo Botanicals is the move. This fragrance-free, hypoallergenic spray uses non-nano zinc oxide and is gentle enough for babies over 6 months. If you've got eczema, rosacea, or just chronically angry skin, this one won't set it off.
What I love: The spray coverage is the widest of any I tested – one pass actually covers a decent amount of skin. The formula includes aloe vera, sunflower oil, and soothing botanical extracts that calm instead of irritate. And because this kind of gentle, broad-spectrum SPF is exactly what parents and sensitive skin warriors need, we’ve rounded up even more family-friendly options in our Best Sunscreens for Babies & Kids guide - perfect if you’re shopping for both you and little ones.
Quick Comparison Table about Sunscreen Sprays & Mists
How to Choose the Right Sunscreen Spray
By Skin Type
Oily/Acne-Prone: Go for oil-free, non-comedogenic formulas like Neutrogena Ultra Sheer or Sun Bum Mineral. Matte finishes are your friend.
Dry Skin: Hydrating options like Hawaiian Tropic Water Mist with hyaluronic acid will protect without leaving you feeling parched.
Sensitive Skin: Stick with mineral formulas like Babo Botanicals – fragrance-free, hypoallergenic, and less likely to cause reactions.
Normal/Combo: You've got options – Supergoop! PLAY or Sun Bum Original both work beautifully on balanced skin types.
By Use Case
Beach/Pool Days: Water-resistant formulas like Sun Bum or Supergoop! PLAY with 80-minute water resistance
Over Makeup: Kopari Sunglaze or Vacation Super Spritz – designed specifically for over-makeup application
Everyday Commute: Hawaiian Tropic Water Mist or Neutrogena Ultra Sheer for lightweight daily protection
Outdoor Sports: Supergoop! PLAY or COOLA for sweat-resistant protection during workouts
How to Apply Sunscreen Spray Properly
Real talk – spray sunscreens only work if you use them right. The whole "spray and pray" method? That's how you end up with a zebra tan and regrets.
Hold it close: Keep the nozzle 4-6 inches from your skin, not across the room
Spray until you glisten: Your skin should look visibly wet with product
Rub it in: This is the step most people skip. Spray, then use your hands to spread it evenly
Don't spray on windy days: You'll waste product and probably inhale some
Skip spraying directly on your face: Spray into your hands first, then apply to face
Use enough: One pass isn't cutting it – dermatologists say you need about an ounce (shot glass worth) for full body coverage
Frequently Asked Questions About Sunscreen Sprays & Mists
Are sunscreen sprays as effective as lotion sunscreens?
Yes – when applied correctly. The issue is most people under-apply spray sunscreens. The active ingredients are the same, but you need to spray enough to see a visible layer on skin, then rub it in. If you do this, you'll get the same protection as a lotion.
Can I use sunscreen spray on my face?
Most body sprays can be used on your face, but don't spray directly at your face. Spray into your hands first, then pat onto your face. For easier face application, look for dedicated face mists like Vacation Super Spritz or Kopari Sunglaze that are designed for facial use.
How often should I reapply sunscreen spray?
Every 2 hours when you're outdoors, and immediately after swimming or heavy sweating – even if the formula is water-resistant. Water resistance buys you time (usually 40-80 minutes), but it doesn't last forever.
Are spray sunscreens safe to inhale?
It's best to minimize inhalation. Use sprays in well-ventilated areas, hold your breath while spraying, and never spray directly at your face. For kids, spray into your hands and apply manually. Non-aerosol pump sprays are generally considered safer than aerosol cans.
Do sunscreen sprays leave a white cast?
Most modern spray sunscreens (especially those with avobenzone and other organic filters) don't leave a white cast. Mineral spray sunscreens with zinc oxide may leave a slight white tint, but it's usually minimal and can be rubbed in.
Can I apply sunscreen spray over makeup?
Yes – that's actually one of the best uses for face mists! Products like Kopari Sunglaze and Vacation Super Spritz are specifically designed to be applied over makeup without disturbing it. Hold the bottle 8-10 inches away and mist evenly.
What's the difference between aerosol and non-aerosol spray sunscreens?
Aerosol sprays use pressurized gas to create a fine, continuous mist. Non-aerosol (pump) sprays use air pressure and tend to have a slightly heavier spray pattern. Non-aerosol sprays are generally considered more eco-friendly and have fewer concerns about inhalation.
Are spray sunscreens reef-safe?
It depends on the formula. Look for sunscreens free from oxybenzone and octinoxate, which have been shown to harm coral reefs. Mineral sprays with zinc oxide (like Sun Bum Mineral or Babo Botanicals) are the most reef-friendly option.
The Bottom Line
The best sunscreen spray is the one you'll actually use – and use correctly. For most people, Supergoop! PLAY Antioxidant Body Mist SPF 50 hits that sweet spot of effective protection, easy application, and skin-loving ingredients.
On a budget? Sun Bum Original Spray SPF 50 delivers beach-ready protection without the premium price tag. Want to reapply over makeup? Kopari Sunglaze or Vacation Super Spritz are literally designed for that exact purpose.
Whatever you choose, remember: spray generously, rub it in, reapply every 2 hours, and your future self will thank you when you're still looking fresh decades from now.
