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The Best Sunscreen Sprays For UV Ray Skin Protection

Buyer's Report GUIDE Team
Written By Buyer's Report GUIDE Team
Last updated: Feb 13, 2025, 06:44 PM
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best sunscreen spray

Are you looking forward to having some outdoor fun at the pool, park, or beach? Sunscreen will be a must. Choosing the right sunscreen can be difficult because you have to consider different levels of SPF and different forms—lotion, gel, or spray. If you want something instant and convenient to use, it’s best to go with spray sunscreens. These won’t be as messy as thick and creamy lotion-based sunscreens. When using cream, your skin might need time to absorb it all completely, but spray gets absorbed quickly. To buy the top sunscreen sprays in 2025, keep the below products in mind.

View all Contents
  • A Buyer's Guide to Finding the Perfect Sunscreen Sprays
    • Tips for Using Sunscreen Spray
    • What to Consider When Purchasing Spray Sunscreen
    • How to Apply Sunscreen Spray
    • How Much Does Spray Sunscreen Cost?
  • People Also Asked
  • Elevating the Shopping Game
  • Contributors
  • Related Reviews

Our Top Picks

  • Banana Boat Spray: Best Overall (Shop Now) →
    Read more about this product ↓
  • COOLA Sunscreen Spray: Best for Hair Protection (Shop Now) →
    Read more about this product ↓
  • Hawaiian Tropic Spray: No-Leak Design (Shop Now) →
    Read more about this product ↓
  • Sun Bum Spray: Best for Oily Skin (Shop Now) →
    Read more about this product ↓
  • Alba Botanica Spray: Best Cruelty-Free Option (Shop Now) →
    Read more about this product ↓
  • Coppertone Spray: Best Bulk Option (Shop Now) →
    Read more about this product ↓

Detailing the Leading Sunscreen Sprays of 2025

Banana Boat Spray

Best Overall
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If you spend a lot of time in the scorching heat, get this sunscreen spray value pack for you! You can use it when you are out, and you get the best protection from UVA and UVB rays coming from the sun. It is also reef-friendly, as it has no octinoxate and oxybenzone. 

The formula is non-greasy; it will not run into your eyes and does not cause any irritation. The distinguishing feature of this sunscreen is that it is a clear and lightweight spray that is made to protect against the sun. Moreover, it also provides great endurance for the water and sweat to let you enjoy it to the fullest.

Product Pros
  • Water-resistance for up to 80 minutes
  • Broad-spectrum UVA and UVB protection 
  • Free from oxybenzone and octinoxate
Product Cons
  • Scent can be overpowering

COOLA Sunscreen Spray

Best for Hair Protection
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The COOLA Sunscreen Spray is a unique product that offers comprehensive protection for your hair from the sun’s harmful rays. It features broad spectrum SPF 30, which helps protect against UVA/UVB rays and prevents hair fading. This lightweight, non-oily spray provides daily protection thanks to its monoi oil ingredient, which helps block UV-related hair damage. It’s made from 70% certified organic ingredients, giving you peace of mind that it is not only effective but also safe for you and your hair. 

The spray has a natural ocean salted sage scent, which is subtle and pleasant without being overpowering. Its formula is also environment friendly as it is compliant with Hawaii Reef Act 104, vegan and gluten-free, as well as paraben free. This product is easy to apply; simply spray 10 to 12 inches away from the scalp and forehead area, keeping out of eyes and mouth. You can even use it on wet or dry hair and rest assured knowing that you’re getting the best protection available against damaging UV rays.

Product Pros
  • Lightweight, non-greasy formula
  • Safe for color-treated hair
  • Water-resistant for up to 80 minutes
Product Cons
  • Higher price for the size
       

Hawaiian Tropic Spray

No-Leak Design
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This Hawaiian clear sunscreen spray is made using island-inspired botanicals. It is a blend of amazing ingredients like mango, guava, papaya, and aloe vera that offer a soothing sensation as well. The lightweight and nourishing formula of this sunscreen is convenient to apply and doesn’t cause any irritation. 

If you are looking for a sunscreen that protects your skin while providing nourishment, this Hawaiian clear sunscreen is the best choice. This spray provides a broad-spectrum UVA and UVB protection that gets absorbed quickly and provides moisturization for 12 hours. It keeps your skin silky soft and is dermatologically tested. More importantly, it does not contain harmful ingredients, like octinoxate and oxybenzone, that can irritate your skin.

Product Pros
  • Clear spray, no white residue
  • Water-resistant for 80 minutes
  • Twist-lock top prevents leaks
Product Cons
  • Can feel slightly oily on the skin

Sun Bum Spray

Best for Oily Skin
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It is a dermatologically tested spray sunscreen that is suitable for oily and sensitive skin as the formula is oil-free. The sunscreen contains vitamin E, and it has a water-resistant formula which makes it perfect for outdoor activities. 

To get the maximum protection, you can apply it every two hours. Since it is free from octinoxate and oxybenzone, your skin will not react to it. Furthermore, it is also paraben-free, gluten-free, and available in SPF 30 ratings.

Product Pros
  • Reef-safe and Hawaii Act 104 compliant
  • Water-resistant for up to 80 minutes
  • Lightweight, non-greasy formula
Product Cons
  • Bottle may clog over time

Alba Botanica Spray

Best Cruelty-Free Option
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This spray sunscreen provides protection from UVA and UVB rays to help you retain youthful skin. The formula has coconut oil, and it is available in 50 SPF ratings. It is lightweight and made using a silky oil blend that instantly glides and absorbs in the skin for a great finish without any greasy or heavy feeling. 

The key ingredients like avocado oil, shea butter, and coconut extract of this sunscreen moisturize your skin. Are you a fan of cruelty-free products? This can be your best choice. It is made with 100% vegan ingredients, and there is no octinoxate and oxybenzone. Furthermore, it has a water-resistant formula that stays on the body for 80 minutes. So, enjoy water activities in the summer with your family and friends without worrying about sunburns.

Product Pros
  • SPF 50 for strong sun protection
  • Water-resistant formula
  • Nourishing ingredients like aloe & avocado oil
Product Cons
  • Smaller size than some competitors (5 oz)

Coppertone Spray

Best Bulk Option
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This amazing sunscreen spray is available in a convenient and easy-to-carry spray bottle that rubs in instantly. It has a water-resistant formula that can last for 80 minutes, allowing you to roam around in scorching heat. Moreover, it is free of PABA, oxybenzone, and any dyes. 

It provides broad-spectrum protection from the 98% damaging rays of the sun. The sunscreen is lightweight and doesn’t feel heavy on the skin while keeping the skin hydrated. Moreover, it also has vitamin E that helps in refueling your skin’s antioxidant defense. You should definitely give it a try!

Product Pros
  • SPF 50 for strong sun protection
  • Water- and sweat-resistant for 80 minutes
  • Bulk pack offers good value
Product Cons
  • Can feel slightly sticky on skin

A Buyer's Guide to Finding the Perfect Sunscreen Sprays

Sunscreen spray is a convenient, less messy alternative to creamy sunscreen and offers great protection from UVA & UVB rays. Most people prefer a lightweight formula so that it doesn’t feel like you’re wearing sunscreen at all, but you also want to make sure the sunscreen you choose will be as effective as it is lightweight.  To help you sift through the many brands and SPFs, we’ve listed our top considerations for buying sunscreen and some tips for using the spray correctly.

Tips for Using Sunscreen Spray

  1. Never spray sunscreen directly on your face. You’ll want to spray some on your hands and then rub that on your face. You can also check some facial sunscreens.
  2. Make sure to bring the spray bottle with you so that you can re-apply if you’ll be out in the sun for multiple hours.
  3. Check the ingredients of your sunscreen spray carefully. It’s best to buy products that don’t contain parabens, phthalates, phenoxyethanol, fragrance, and chemical UV filters. There are also many unscented sunscreens.
  4. Don’t forget to hydrate your skin as well. You can apply lotion at the same time you apply sunscreen. When you’re back inside for the day, try after-sun lotion or aloe vera to rehydrate your skin. 

What to Consider When Purchasing Spray Sunscreen

Broad-spectrum protection

You’ll want to purchase a sunscreen spray that offers broad-spectrum protection to block UVA and UVB rays, as both cause sunburn and damage your skin.Even if it is cloudy out, sunscreen may still be a good idea. Dr. Alex Trevatt, MD, founder of Avon Aesthetics, says, “UVA has a longer wavelength and penetrates deeper into the skin. It is consistent all year round and can even penetrate clouds.” Dr. Trevatt goes on to say, “For this reason, I advise wearing high-factor sunscreen all year round.” Of course, you should wear sunscreen in the summer, especially when it’s sunny as “Its [UVB’s] intensity fluctuates and is strongest during the summer,” according to Dr. Trevatt.

Nourish and moisturize your skin

Read the label of your sunscreen to see what nourishing and moisturizing ingredients it has. Pick a product that has sunflower oil, Vitamin E, shea butter, aloe vera, and enriched with antioxidants. 

Water and sweat resistance 

Go with a sunscreen that has sweat and water-resistant properties. You’ll likely be sweating in the heat, so you’ll want a sunscreen that will last. If you’re at the beach, you certainly need your sunscreen to hold up while you’re in the water. 

How to Apply Sunscreen Spray

To apply sunscreen spray properly, follow these instructions:

  • When applying sunscreen on your face, spray it into your hands first and then rub it onto your face.
  • Once you’ve sprayed an area, gently rub it into your skin. This helps the sunscreen absorb and helps you maintain an even layer of coverage.
  • Reapply sunscreen every two hours. You might need to apply more frequently if you’re in the water.
  • When using sunscreen spray with minerals, shake the bottle well. You should hold the can about four to six inches away from your skin. 
  • Apply sunscreen fifteen minutes before you get exposed to the sun. 

How Much Does Spray Sunscreen Cost?

The typical price tag for sunscreen spray is between $6 and $18, the difference due to unique formulas. Some sunscreen sprays are reef-friendly, lightweight, contain Vitamin E, and are free from harmful ingredients. On the other hand, some manufacturers offer two or three packs of cans in one bundle or an additional carrying case. Bulk buying can cost a little more upfront but is a better value in the long run. The brand also affects the price. If you are purchasing a sunscreen spray from a high-end name brand, you will have to pay for the brand value as well. It is better to invest in high-quality products that provide your skin with the best protection.

People Also Asked

Do I need to rub in spray sunscreen?

You should rub sunscreen spray in thoroughly to ensure an even layer of coverage. Spray the surface of your skin evenly and then rub it in.

You should rub sunscreen spray in thoroughly to ensure an even layer of coverage. Spray the surface of your skin evenly and then rub it in.

Yes, sprays are effective, convenient, and provide broad-spectrum protection that blocks UVA and UVB rays from damaging the skin.

Is spray sunscreen bad for my face?

Not necessarily. We recommend not spraying sunscreen directly on your face, however. Apply it on your hands and then rub your hands on your face.

Does sunscreen spray expire?

Yes, sunscreen does expire and should be replaced every two years or sooner if it changes color, smells strange, or is past its expiration date. Sunscreen can become less effective over time due to expired ingredients losing their potency or becoming contaminated with bacteria or other particles which can cause skin irritation or allergic reactions upon application.

What is the difference between a chemical and physical sunscreen spray?

Chemical sunscreen sprays contain active UV-filtering ingredients that absorb into the skin upon application and convert UV rays into heat energy before they reach the skin’s surface. Physical sunscreens contain mineral blockers such as titanium dioxide or zinc oxide that reflect UV rays away from the skin’s surface upon application. You can read more about it here.

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Contributors

Buyer's Report GUIDE Team
Buyer's Report GUIDE Team
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