Every item on this page was chosen by an ELLE editor. We may earn commission on some of the items you choose to buy.
The Lightweight Sunscreen Mists That Have a Permanent Spot in My Bag
Shield your skin with one quick spritz.
While there’s nothing better than sipping an Aperol Spritz in the summer, there’s another kind of spritz that might be even more essential this season: sunscreen face mists. Gone are the days of white cast-causing lotions and greasy aerosol formulas. In 2025, the sunscreen landscape is brimming with featherlight facial sprays that not only deliver broad-spectrum protection but also hydrate, set makeup, and leave skin with a fresh, radiant finish—all without clogging a single pore or disrupting your beach club glam.
As every beauty editor and dermatologist will drill into your head, wearing SPF on your face every single day is non-negotiable. The product protects your skin from premature aging—including fine lines, wrinkles, loss of elasticity—prevents hyperpigmentation, keeps your skin hydrated, and significantly lowers the risk of skin cancers. Even if you’re spending the day indoors, Dr. Purvisha Patel, a leading dermatologist and founder of Visha Skincare, notes that SPF even protects against the HEV radiation emitted from computer screens and devices.
Our picks for the best sunscreen face mists of 2025
The best part? Misting on your SPF couldn’t be easier—just spritz and go. These weightless sprays make reapplying SPF not only seamless, but actually enjoyable—no makeup disruption required. However, Dr. Patel advises that sprays can be inconsistent in coverage, so it’s important to apply your SPF generously and evenly across the face.
Below, our editors and experts have rounded up the 10 best face sunscreen mists, from makeup setting sprays and glow boosters to classic sunscreen mists and hydrators.
Pros
- Expert-approved
Cons
- Nozzle gets jammed easily
For many years, EltaMD’s tinted face sunscreen was the only SPF I felt comfortable putting on my face. Now, the dermatologist-loved formula is available in an easy-to-apply spray. A favorite of Dr. Patel, the brand’s UV AOX Mist is lightweight, water-resistant, and packed with antioxidants. Plus, it uses white-to-clear technology to ensure you never miss a spot.
SPF: 40
Size: 5 oz
Amazon rating: 3.9/5
An Amazon reviewer says: “This is light and non-greasy. Let it soak in before heading outside. I love it and will continue to purchase this.”
Pros
- Long-lasting
Cons
- Low SPF
When it comes to sweat-proof makeup, One Size’s On ’Til Dawn Setting Spray is a staple. Just in time for summer, the brand released an upgraded formula infused with SPF. The spray locks in makeup for up to 16 hours and delivers 80 minutes of sweat-resistant, broad-spectrum protection with no white cast or sticky residue.
SPF: 28
Size: 3.6 oz
Sephora rating: 4.7/5
An ELLE editor says: “As someone whose job is to wear makeup all day long, I absolutely swear by the One Size On ’Til Dawn Setting Spray. So when they released an SPF version, I had to get my hands on it. It’s definitely not as mattifying as the original formula, but I actually don’t mind that. Still, it seals in my makeup through long days (and nights), doesn’t irritate my sensitive skin, and keeps my skin protected from harmful UV rays.”—Emma Aerin Becker, associate beauty e-commerce writer
Pros
- Reduces inflammation and redness
Cons
- May burn eyes upon spraying
Ah, niacinamide—the beloved vitamin B3 known for its impressive soothing and healing properties. With Ultra Violette’s Preen Screen, you’ll get all the redness-reducing and anti-aging benefits, plus SPF 50. Spray it on clean skin, over makeup, or even on the go.
SPF: 50
Size: 1.7 oz
Sephora rating: 4.6/5
A Sephora reviewer says: “The sunscreen applies smoothly, absorbs within a few minutes, and doesn’t leave a heavy white cast. It has a lightweight feel and layers well under makeup without pilling, which is a major plus for daily use. It effectively protects my skin from sunburn during short and extended periods outside. I’ve noticed far less redness or irritation after being in the sun, and my skin tone has remained more even overall. It also helps in preventing premature aging—no new fine lines or sun spots since I started daily application.”
Pros
- Hydrating
Cons
- Have to rub in
With a unique water-based formula, the Hawaiian Tropic Water Sunscreen Mist is incredibly lightweight and refreshing. It boasts SPF 30 as well as hyaluronic acid, so your skin will be both plump and protected.
SPF: 30
Size: 5.2 oz
Amazon rating: 4.7/5
An Amazon reviewer says: “This spray sunscreen smells wonderful! It sprays on a little white but immediately goes clear when rubbing it into your skin. I appreciated being able to see where I was applying it so I didn’t miss any area. Having recently dealt with skin cancer, I needed a good SPF, but I didn’t want anything stinky, thick, or sticky. This goes on easily and feels really good. It isn’t oily or thick, and smells wonderful!”
Pros
- Glass-skin finish
Cons
- Can cause pimples
This is glass skin in a bottle. The Kopari Sunglaze Sheer Setting Mist has gone completely viral for its formula packed with SPF 50, hyaluronic acid, and a gorgeous shimmer.
SPF: 50
Size: 2.53 oz
Revolve rating: 4/5
An ELLE editor says: “Even if this setting spray didn’t have SPF 50 in it, I’d still be obsessed with it. It has an ultra-fine mist that feels extremely lightweight and hydrating, and the shimmer finish makes my skin literally reflective. I did get a few pimples after consistent application—but dare I say, it’s worth it.”—Emma Aerin Becker
Pros
- High SPF
Cons
- Strong scent
The Naked Sundays Hydrating Glow Mist is exactly as its name implies—a broad-spectrum spray that’s so hydrating, your skin will be glowing all day long. Formulated with skin-loving ingredients, such as Kakadu plum, hyaluronic acid, and antioxidant-packed watermelon extract, it’s suitable for all skin types and layers perfectly over or under makeup.
SPF: 50+
Size: 2.54 oz
Ulta rating: 4.8/5
An Ulta reviewer says: “This is the perfect mist to put on top of makeup to make sure you’re still protecting your face from the sun throughout the day. It’s a super-fine mist that doesn’t affect your makeup, and if you’re oily like me, this is a huge perk. I also love the scent—but also the fact that it doesn’t linger.”
Pros
- Enriched with witch hazel
Cons
- Strong banana scent
Dr. Patel loves the Sun Bum Face Mist. It’s a classic—lightweight, sheer, and infused with SPF 45. Plus, it’s never greasy.
SPF: 45
Size: 3.4 oz
Amazon rating: 4.6/5
An Amazon reviewer says: “We absolutely love this face mist sunscreen for the whole family. It’s hard to find a facial SPF that doesn’t sting your eyes or feel heavy, but this one checks all the boxes. The mist is light, not aerosol-based, and super easy to apply—even on squirmy kids. It dries quickly without feeling greasy, and it doesn’t leave a white cast either. We use it on beach days, park runs, and even for everyday errands. It’s now a staple in our bag.”
Pros
- non-comedogenic
Cons
- Lid falls off easily
I get it: As someone with sensitive skin, spraying a layer of sunscreen onto your face can feel daunting. Fortunately, Vacation’s Super Spritz Face Mist was made with sensitive skin in mind. It’s non-comedogenic, lightweight, allergy-tested, and has a subtle satin finish that makes it great for over-makeup application.
SPF: 50
Size: 2.2 oz
Nordstrom rating: 4.5/5
A Nordstrom reviewer says: “I have bought the Super Spritz Face Mist several times and I love it. It is easy to spritz your face in the AM, and then I keep one in my purse for spritzing on the go! It is not sticky and dries quickly. It is clear and sprays like water. Dries within seconds.”
Pros
- Non-greasy
Cons
- May feel sticky
Powered by an antioxidant-rich Plant Protection complex, the Coola Classic Face Sunscreen Mist provides extra-strong protection from UV radiation, pollution, and free radicals. It sprays on like a breeze—over makeup, on the go, or at the beach.
SPF: 50
Size: 3.4 oz
Amazon rating: 4.1/5
An Amazon reviewer says: “Love this face spray sunscreen. It is non-greasy and does not sting going on. It also works well—no sunburns. My kids and I love it!”
Suncreen Mists for Face Vs. Body
According to Dr. Patel, the main differences between face and body sunscreens fall into two categories: formulation and application. Face sunscreen mists are “typically made to be lighter and non-comedogenic,” she explains. “They often include additional skin care ingredients, such as antioxidants and moisturizing agents, and are designed to be gentle on the more sensitive skin of the face.” On the other hand, body sunscreen mists are usually thicker and may contain more active ingredients to provide a higher level of protection. They may also be more water-resistant to withstand sweat and water exposure.
When it comes to application, face mists are often designed for easy application over makeup, allowing for quick and easy touch-ups throughout the day. Not only are many body mists not suitable for over makeup, but the oils they contain could actually make your makeup melt off.
Meet the Expert
Dr. Purvisha Patel is a leading dermatologist and cosmetic surgeon, and the founder of Visha Skincare.
Why Trust ELLE Beauty?
As a leading publisher of fashion, lifestyle, and beauty content, ELLE.com is committed to highlighting the best products in various categories by personally testing the latest and most innovative products, interviewing countless experts, and vetting customer-loved items. For this piece, Emma Aerin Becker interviewed a dermatologist and tested different formulas to find the best sunscreen mists for face.
Shop More ELLE Beauty Essentials
Skin Experts Swear by These Face Sunscreens
These Sunscreens Are the Very Best at Protecting Acne-Prone Skin
These Are the Best Korean Sunscreens to Protect Your Skin
The Best Drugstore Sunscreens for Protection on a Budget
Peel-Off Lip Liners That Actually Stay On All Day
The Best Cream Blushes for a Fresh, Dewy Flush
A Guide to Trying Cherry Nails
This Body Oil Is My Secret to a Year-Round Glow
