16 Best Spray Sunscreens 2022, According to Dermatologists

All the dermatologists we spoke to loved this La Roche-Posay lotion spray. “It’s super light and oil-free, so it won’t break out your chest and back,” says Evan Rieder, MD, board-certified dermatologist at NYU Langone Health. Sperling adds, “It goes on elegantly, and it’s great for sensitive skin.”

This Neutrogena spray is another choice widely recommended by dermatologists. Rieder says the spray has a “sleek formulation that goes on smoothly and doesn’t leave a harsh residue.” Sperling notes that it’s also a good option if you have sensitive skin.

Zeichner applauds this ultra-lightweight zinc oxide formula because it can be used from head to toe without leaving skin feeling heavy or oily. Ranella Hirsch, MD, board-certified dermatologist and co-founder of Atolla Custom Skincare, adds that it’s also suitable for oily skin and darker skin tones. However, like most mineral spray sunscreens, reviewers note that it requires extra rubbing to absorb.

“This slightly shimmery product sits over your makeup without smudging or moving,” says Shainhouse, who adds that “SuperGoop sunscreens have a great skin-feel and cosmetic finish.” Rieder loves that there’s no residue and adds that it “offers a refreshing, light scent for people without sensitive skin.”

Pro tip: Store in the fridge for a cooling effect, says New York makeup artist Jordan Sawyer, who uses this product over makeup.

This fragrance-free mineral product is a solid choice for sensitive skin, says Ilyas. The natural formula contains zinc oxide, nourishing coconut oil, plus shea butter and cocoa butter, making it gentle enough for kids and toddlers.

Another Ilyas endorsement, this water-resistant face mist works well over makeup as an added layer of protection. However, she suggests spraying it on your hands before applying it to your face. Meena Singh, MD, a dermatologist at the Kansas Medical Clinic, also recommends this product, noting that it will “freshen up your look” seamlessly. She adds that it also complements darker skin tones.

Created with antioxidant-rich ingredients like grapeseed, raspberry, and carrot oils, this vanilla-coconut-scented mineral spray gets two more thumbs up (coated with sunscreen) from Ilyas. Although like most mineral sunscreens there may be a white residue, it spreads evenly.

If you’re looking to splurge, Rieder votes for Supergoop’s body spray. The lightweight, reef-friendly, broad-spectrum formula, presented in a non-aerosol canister, is simply refreshing. Ingredients include vitamin C, green tea, and acai extracts that leave your skin hydrated.

This SPF 70+ spray option wipes on easily — which is essential if you have squirmy toddlers — to provide adequate protection against both UVA and UVB rays, Shainhouse says.

Safe for toddlers and sensitive skin, this hypoallergenic mineral sunscreen has the Hirsch stamp of approval. Natural moisturizing ingredients include aloe vera, sunflower seed oil and jojoba. Sure, like its other zinc-based peers, it sprays on white, but at least you’ll know your child is covered.

Hirsch favors this setting spray that leaves a nice matte finish on makeup. Think of it as a mild GI filter but with SPF protection.

“I discovered this face mist last summer and love it for its literally lightweight, absorbent, and quick-drying broad-spectrum UV protection,” Shainhouse says.

Black Girl Sunscreen manufactures products specifically designed for melanin. Board-certified dermatologist Sheila Farhang, MD, recommends her new, fast-absorbing children’s spray. It doesn’t leave a sticky residue, which means your kids won’t complain when it’s time to reapply after swimming.

For the body, Ilyas also suggests this mineral sunscreen that’s chemical-free, reef-safe, easy to apply and, most importantly, reapply.