Trust Me, I'm an Esthetician—If You Still Hate Applying SPF, You Probably Haven't Tried This Product

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

1. Best Overall: Heliocare 360 Invisible Spray SPF50
2. Best for Over Makeup: Ultra Violette Preen Screen SPF50 Reapplication Spray
3. Best for Glow: Naked Sundays SPF50 Hydrating Glow Mist
4. Best for On-the-Go: La Roche-Posay Anthelios Anti-Shine Sun Protection Invisible SPF50+ Face Mist
5. 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+

2. Ultra Violette Preen Screen SPF50 Reapplication Mist Skinscreen

3. Naked Sundays SPF50 Hydrating Glow Mist

4. La Roche-Posay Anthelios Anti-Shine Sun Protection Invisible SPF50+ Face Mist

5. Hello Sunday The Retouch One Face Mist SPF 30

6. Skin Cycles Lumina Mist SPF 50

7. Bondi Sands SPF 50+ Fragrance Free Face Mist

8. Garnier Ambre Solaire SPF 50+ Sensitive Advanced Dry Mist Sun Spray

9. Coola Makeup Setting Spray Organic Sunscreen SPF 30

10. Shiseido Invisible Protective Mist