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We have heard countless times that wearing sunscreen is equally important as other steps in our skincare routine. Beauty experts say that adding sunscreen to our skincare regimen can keep our skin more youthful. The sun's ultraviolet rays damage our skin in numerous ways, so opting for a spray sunscreen can be a great treat for your skin.
Sunscreen protects our skin against harmful UVA and UVB rays. Compared to sunscreen lotions, the spray variant is suitable for hard-to-reach areas like your back and scalp. Whether it's your first time trying or you're looking for more alternatives, you can read through our buying guide, with comments from board-certified dermatologist Dr. Gaile Robredo-Vitas, for some useful pointers. We also gathered our 10 best spray sunscreens to help you with your next purchase.
Dr. Gaile Robredo-Vitas is a board-certified dermatologist from the Philippines. She enjoys teaching and gives lectures here and abroad. She is also very active in social media educating the public and correcting misinformation online. Her other special interests include aesthetic and procedural dermatology such as cosmeceuticals, injectables, lasers, and energy-based devices.
Our recommendation articles are carefully researched and crafted by the mybest Philippines team of writers and editors. To stay true to our company’s mission and vision to help users’ selection process easier, we also collaborate with experts from various fields to ensure that our content stays factual and useful.
The expert oversees the Buying Guide only, and does not determine the products and services featured.
Table of Contents
When choosing spray sunscreens, look for broad-spectrum protection, at least SPF 30, and check the ingredients. For outdoor activities, take into account the PA rating and water resistance. Also, inspect the packaging, and expiration date for usability and effectiveness. For more details, check our buying guide.
Studies show that UVA rays from the sun contribute to photoaging's early appearance on our skin, including patchy or mottled pigmentation, wrinkling, laxity, sagging, dryness, and the like. Meanwhile, UVB rays are principally responsible for sunburn, suntan, and other more serious skin conditions.
That is why it is crucial to choose a sunscreen that offers broad-spectrum protection to include both UVA and UVB light. Experts advise that it provides protection from pre-mature aging and burning your skin.
Sunscreens that say “broad-spectrum” or “multi-spectrum” on their labels provide adequate protection for both UVA and UVB. There is no global official measurement like SPF, but in some countries, they use the PA rating system to measure UVA protection. This was developed in Japan and ranges from + to ++++.
SPF stands for sun protection factor. It gives you an idea of the amount of time that you can stay in the sun without being burnt. Let's say if your unprotected skin can remain under the sun for about 10 minutes before it starts to turn red, applying a sunscreen with SPF 20 will allow you to stay for 200 minutes or twenty times the original duration.
When looking for a good sunscreen, skin experts suggest getting a minimum of SPF 30, which is known to give 97% UV protection. Then reapply sunscreen every two to three hours or after swimming or perspiring.
Using sunscreen with at least an SPF 30 on a regular basis has been proven to prevent skin cancer, sunburns, and photoaging. For those with pigmentation problems, I even recommend going for sunscreens with higher SPF.
Sunscreens work as soon as you apply them to your skin. The reason for recommending waiting 20 minutes before stepping out into the sun after sunscreen application is not because it has to absorb into your skin but because it has to settle, especially those that come in emulsion form.
Here are a few known sunscreen filters that can protect your skin from UVA and UVB. Looking into these ingredients will allow you to choose a sunscreen that best protects your skin.
Octinoxate or Octyl methoxycinnamate is one of the most common and oldest active ingredients of sunscreens as it is insoluble in water, making it ideal for waterproof products. It protects your skin from UVB rays and also provides some UVA protection.
Avobenzone or Butyl Methoxydibenzoylmethane absorbs UVA rays, providing broad-spectrum sun protection by absorbing UVA rays. It is a widely used UVA filter due to its safety and efficacy. Meanwhile, Octyl Salicylate is another sunscreen agent that is used to protect skin from UVB rays.
If your product doesn’t have a PA rating, look for the ingredients avobenzone and zinc oxide because these 2 provide UVA protection. But because of technological advancements and increasing knowledge about sunscreens, most contain a good mix of UVA and UVB filters so that you are assured of protection against these harmful UV rays.
Octocrylene shields your skin from UVB rays and is a globally approved sunscreen agent with an approved usage level of 7 to 10 percent in the United States and the European Union. It has a strong water-resistant property and also helps to stabilize avobenzone.
Other things to consider in sunscreens are the PA rating and the water resistance. These will be discussed in further detail below.
You probably have noticed that some sunscreens are labeled with PA ratings. This rating system was developed in Japan to indicate the level of protection from UVA rays the product offers. You will see ratings like PA+, which means your sunscreen provides some protection against UVA rays, PA++ offers moderate protection, and PA ++++ for high UVA protection.
PA, which stands for "Protection Grade of UVA" is actually a Japanese measurement based on the Persistent Pigment Darkening (PPD) Test done on skin exposed to UVA light. This test analyzes how long it takes for skin to tan and compares the results between unprotected and protected skin.
If a product has a PPD of 2, it means that it will take twice as long for the skin to tan when protected, versus when unprotected. If it has a PPD of 4, then it takes four times as long. The rating system is measured with plus (+) signs—the more pluses, the higher the protection.
Also, check whether the sunscreen is water-resistant. This is an important feature if you'll be swimming or working out outdoors. It should be able to stay on the skin for 40 to 80 minutes. For it to be effective, apply 20 minutes before stepping outside- spray then massage into your skin.
Take note, however, that no sunscreen is waterproof, so you need to reapply. Sweat, water, and towel drying can break down and remove water-resistant sunscreens.
According to the USFDA, water resistance refers to the amount of time a sunscreen will stay on wet skin and this is determined by putting the sunscreen to a test. Water-resistant sunscreens stay effective for 40 minutes in the water, while very water-resistant ones stay effective for 80 minutes in the water.
Some sunscreens come in typical sprayers, while there are mist-type that spray on evenly and finely. Opt for a spray sunscreen that has an excellent fine mist, easy dispense spray functions, and comes in secure and no-mess packaging to ensure the potency of the sunscreen ingredients.
Like any other skincare product, sunscreens should be stamped with an expiration date. It's also good to check if it's safe for both face and body use. If it's not indicated, you can reach out to the online shop or the brand's social media platforms, where you can send queries and get faster answers.
Products | Image | Click to purchase | Price | Key features | Details | ||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Net Weight | SPF Level | Broad-Spectrum | Water-Resistant | For Face and Body | UV Filters | ||||||
1 | Supergoop! PLAY Antioxidant Body Mist | ₱1,350 High Mid | Vitamin C-Infused Spray Sunscreen With SPF50 for Brighter Glowing Skin | 177 mL | 50 | Yes | Yes | unknown | Avobenzone, Homosalate, Octisalate, Octocrylene | ||
2 | Luxe Organix Aqua Daily Sunscreen | ₱349 Low Mid | A Lightweight and Fast-Absorbing Sunscreen That’s Great for Oily Skin | 50 mL | 50 | Yes | Yes | unknown | Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate, Diethylamino Hydroxybenzoyl Hexyl Benzoate, Chlorphenesin | ||
3 | Beach Hut MAX SPF100++ Sunscreen Spray | ₱543.15 Mid | Has SPF100 and Water-Resistant Properties for Maximum Sun Protection | 150 mL | 100 | Yes | Yes | unknown | Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate, Butyl Methoxydibenzoylmethane, Benzophenone-3, Octocrylene, Zinc Oxide | ||
4 | Anessa Perfect UV Sunscreen Skincare Spray | ₱1,118 High Mid | Provides Maximum Sun Protection for Face, Body, and Hair | 60 mL | 50 | No | No | unknown | Zinc Oxide, Ethylhexyl Triazone, Diethylamino Hydroxybenzoyl Hexyl Benzoate, Bis-Ethylhexyloxyphenol Methoxyphenyl Triazine, Titanium Dioxide | ||
5 | Belo SunExpert Transparent Mist SPF50 |PA+++ | ₱530 Mid | Lightweight SPF50 PA+++ Sunscreen With an Anti-Aging Formula | 100 mL | 50 | Yes | No | unknown | Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate, Butyl Methoxydibenzoylmethane, Octocrylene, Benzylidene Dimethoxydimethylindanone | ||
6 | Nivea Sun Protect & Refresh Spray | ₱717 Mid | Protects Your Skin With SPF50 Without Leaving White Cast | 200 mL | 50 | Yes | Yes | unknown | Homosalate, Octocrylene, Avobenzone | ||
7 | Dermplus Invisilite Sunscreen Spray | ₱339.2 Low Mid | Provides Triple Protection Against UV Rays While Soothing the Skin | 100 mL | 50 | unknown | Yes | unknown | unknown | ||
8 | Avène Very High Protection Spray |SPF50+ | ₱1,746 High | An Oil-Free and Alcohol-Free Spray Sunscreen With SPF50 | 200 mL | 50 | Yes | Yes | unknown | Methylene Bis-Benzotriazolyl Tetramethylbutylphenol, BIS-ethylhexyloxyphenol methoxyphenyl triazine, Diethylhexyl Butamido Triazone, Butyl methoxydibenzoylmethane | ||
9 | Skintific All Day Light Sunscreen Mist | ₱288.3 Low | Spray Sunscreen Formulated With Centella for Sensitive Skin | 50 mL | 50 | Yes | No | unknown | Homosalate, Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate, Ethylhexyl Salicylate, Diethylamino Hydroxybenzoyl Hexyl Benzoate, Bis-Ethylhexyloxyphenol Methoxyphenyl Triazine, Ethylhexyl Triazone | ||
10 | Sunplay Ultra Shield UV Body Mist | ₱585.2 Mid | A Lightweight Vitamin C and E Spray Sunscreen for Radiant-Looking Skin | 165 mL | 130 | Yes | Yes | unknown | Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate, Zinc Oxide, Titanium Dioxide, Diethylamino Hydroxybenzoyl Hexyl Benzoate, Bis-Ethylhexyloxyphenol Methoxyphenyl Triazine, Polysilicone-15 |
Net Weight | 177 mL |
---|---|
SPF Level | 50 |
Broad-Spectrum | Yes |
Water-Resistant | Yes |
For Face and Body | unknown |
UV Filters | Avobenzone, Homosalate, Octisalate, Octocrylene |
Our country’s hot weather can sometimes discourage you from applying sunscreen. But with Luxe Organix’s Aqua Daily Sunscreen, you won’t have that problem! It comes in a fast-absorbing gel formulation that won't leave you feeling malagkit upon application. This makes it perfect for everyday use.
Moreover, the sunscreen contains aloe vera extracts to keep your skin hydrated throughout the day. And it doesn't leave a white cast, so you can definitely use it under your makeup. Users say that if you're looking for an easy-to-apply and barely-there sunscreen that will still protect you from the sun's rays, then this is one of your best options.
Net Weight | 50 mL |
---|---|
SPF Level | 50 |
Broad-Spectrum | Yes |
Water-Resistant | Yes |
For Face and Body | unknown |
UV Filters | Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate, Diethylamino Hydroxybenzoyl Hexyl Benzoate, Chlorphenesin |
Beach Hut Spray Sunscreen is a locally-made sunscreen that offers broad UVA/UVB protection and SPF100. It is also sweat and water-resistant, which makes it perfect for use if you need maximum protection during outdoor activities, such as swimming, hiking, and sunbathing.
You won't have to worry about feeling greasy or sticky, too, because users say it also leaves a non-greasy finish on the skin. Plus, it is easy to use and leaves no white cast at all. It is also reef-safe, so you can use it without worrying about harming the environment!
Net Weight | 150 mL |
---|---|
SPF Level | 100 |
Broad-Spectrum | Yes |
Water-Resistant | Yes |
For Face and Body | unknown |
UV Filters | Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate, Butyl Methoxydibenzoylmethane, Benzophenone-3, Octocrylene, Zinc Oxide |
Net Weight | 60 mL |
---|---|
SPF Level | 50 |
Broad-Spectrum | No |
Water-Resistant | No |
For Face and Body | unknown |
UV Filters | Zinc Oxide, Ethylhexyl Triazone, Diethylamino Hydroxybenzoyl Hexyl Benzoate, Bis-Ethylhexyloxyphenol Methoxyphenyl Triazine, Titanium Dioxide |
If you're looking for a sunscreen that does not only give your face and body adequate sun protection but can also counter aging, look no further than this sunscreen mist from Belo! It offers SPF50 and PA+++ rating, shielding you from both UVA and UVB rays. It also has Cell Protect ® Technology that can combat premature skin aging.
You'll definitely love its ultra-light feel on the skin and how it doesn't leave any white cast. Furthermore, the formula is free of fragrance and parabens, plus it's dermatologist-tested. According to reviews, the best way to use this product is to spray it on your hands first and then apply it to your face and body. This will ensure that you get maximum protection.
Net Weight | 100 mL |
---|---|
SPF Level | 50 |
Broad-Spectrum | Yes |
Water-Resistant | No |
For Face and Body | unknown |
UV Filters | Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate, Butyl Methoxydibenzoylmethane, Octocrylene, Benzylidene Dimethoxydimethylindanone |
Nivea’s Sun Protect & Refresh Spray contains highly effective UV filtering ingredients to combat the sun’s UVA and UVB rays. It shields your face and body with its SPF50 and broad-spectrum protection. Moreover, it protects your skin without leaving any white cast or stings.
It is also formulated to be non-greasy and fast-absorbing, which makes it perfect for those who are always on the go. Furthermore, many users totally love the pleasurable cooling effect and the fresh sensation it leaves on the skin.
Net Weight | 200 mL |
---|---|
SPF Level | 50 |
Broad-Spectrum | Yes |
Water-Resistant | Yes |
For Face and Body | unknown |
UV Filters | Homosalate, Octocrylene, Avobenzone |
Here's a locally-made spray sunscreen you can take on your next beach trip! The Dermplus Invisilite Sunscreen Spray offers Total Protection Factor (TPF) 50++, composed of SPF and moisturizer, which keeps your skin hydrated and protected against harmful UV rays.
It is also formulated with antioxidants and skin-soothing properties, which can improve the appearance of sun-damaged skin. Another great thing about this water-resistant product is that it can be applied to both the face and body. It's also invisible when applied, so it doesn't leave a white cast.
Net Weight | 100 mL |
---|---|
SPF Level | 50 |
Broad-Spectrum | unknown |
Water-Resistant | Yes |
For Face and Body | unknown |
UV Filters | unknown |
Whether it's prickly hot or not, it's ideal to protect your skin from harmful UV rays, and you can comfortably do that with Avène's Very High Protection Spray. It's an oil and alcohol-free sunscreen with an SPF50+ and patented filter system that guards your skin against the sun. It also has an antioxidant complex, pre-tocopheryl plus thialidine, that provides cellular protection against oxidative stress.
Reviewers shared that this spray sunscreen is fast-absorbing, non-sticky, and leaves no white marks, making it perfect for everyday use. It's also water and sweat-resistant, so you can run errands without worrying about reapplying. This makes it a great choice for anyone looking for a reliable sunscreen that provides excellent protection without any hassle.
Net Weight | 200 mL |
---|---|
SPF Level | 50 |
Broad-Spectrum | Yes |
Water-Resistant | Yes |
For Face and Body | unknown |
UV Filters | Methylene Bis-Benzotriazolyl Tetramethylbutylphenol, BIS-ethylhexyloxyphenol methoxyphenyl triazine, Diethylhexyl Butamido Triazone, Butyl methoxydibenzoylmethane |
No more dealing with thick, sticky creams that take ages to apply evenly. This lightweight spray is designed to be easy and quick to use, making it the ideal choice for busy mornings or outdoor adventures. With an impressive SPF50 and PA++++ rating, this sunscreen spray offers protection against both UVA and UVB rays.
It is infused with ceramide that moisturizes and repairs your skin barrier, preventing sun damage, premature aging, and painful sunburns that can ruin a day in the sun. This product is also formulated with centella which is a supplement for skin collagen as an anti-inflammatory, making it especially beneficial for users with damaged, acne-prone, and sensitive skin.
Net Weight | 50 mL |
---|---|
SPF Level | 50 |
Broad-Spectrum | Yes |
Water-Resistant | No |
For Face and Body | unknown |
UV Filters | Homosalate, Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate, Ethylhexyl Salicylate, Diethylamino Hydroxybenzoyl Hexyl Benzoate, Bis-Ethylhexyloxyphenol Methoxyphenyl Triazine, Ethylhexyl Triazone |
This spray sunscreen is a good pick if you want a multitasking sunscreen that's suitable for all skin types. It is enriched with skin-nourishing ingredients, including vitamin C, which enhances skin fairness, and vitamin E, a powerful antioxidant that helps combat the damaging effects of free radicals, keeping your skin youthful and radiant.
Plus, it comes in a lightweight and non-greasy formula that is water and sweat-resistant, making it ideal for long hours of outdoor activities. Reviewers shared that the fine mist evenly coats their skin, absorbing quickly to provide instant protection without the discomfort of residue or an oily finish.
Net Weight | 165 mL |
---|---|
SPF Level | 130 |
Broad-Spectrum | Yes |
Water-Resistant | Yes |
For Face and Body | unknown |
UV Filters | Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate, Zinc Oxide, Titanium Dioxide, Diethylamino Hydroxybenzoyl Hexyl Benzoate, Bis-Ethylhexyloxyphenol Methoxyphenyl Triazine, Polysilicone-15 |
Applying sunscreens isn't the only way of protecting yourself from the sun's harmful UV rays. There are many equally important and effective means of sun protection, such as the following:
Know how you can care for your skin more! Read below as Dr. Irene answers the most asked questions about spray screens on the web.
When using spray sunscreens, instead of spraying it directly onto your skin, I suggest spraying it onto your palms before applying it to your skin. That way, you know that all of the product goes onto your skin and not in the air where other people, including yourself, might inhale it.
It is harder to quantify how much sunscreen you've used with sprays; however, according to the American Academy of dermatology, apply spray sunscreens until your skin glistens, and that a typical 6-ounce bottle of spray sunscreen is good enough for six whole-body applications.
How long sunscreens last depend on how much you put on, what type of sunscreen you used, and your activity at the time. If you are engaged in activities wherein you are exposed or outdoors or are swimming and sweating, I would say that your sunscreens won't last more than 1 hour. Waterproof sunscreens may last up to 80 minutes. If you are mainly indoors in an air-conditioned room, one study in Thailand showed that sunscreens could stay on your skin for 5 to 6 hours.
It depends on your activity for the day and what you will be exposed to. When in doubt, make sure to properly apply enough amount of sunscreen to provide adequate protection to all exposed parts of the body and re-apply every two to three hours from 9 am to 3 pm.
If you're looking for more products to keep your skin protected and healthy, read the articles below to check out our other recommended sunscreens for the face, body, acne-prone skin, and for your little ones as well.
Author: D. Payo
Re-editor: D. Trinidad
Our buying guide was carefully researched and crafted by the mybest team of writers and editors, in collaboration with the expert featured in this article. We used the buying guide as a basis for choosing and ranking the product recommendations, and we looked at reviews and ratings from different E-commerce sites like Lazada, Shopee, and more.
No. 1: Supergoop!|PLAY Antioxidant Body Mist
No. 2: Luxe Organix|Aqua Daily Sunscreen
No. 3: Beach Hut|MAX SPF100++ Sunscreen Spray
No. 4: Anessa |Perfect UV Sunscreen Skincare Spray
No. 5: Belo |SunExpert Transparent Mist SPF50 |PA+++
View Full RankingThe descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.
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