As any beauty editor worth their salt and they will tell you that SPF is king. For that reason, then, I subscribe to the belief that the best sunscreen is the sunscreen that you actually want to use—and in 2026, it's never been easier. From creams and sunscreen sticks to SPF sprays and SPF serums, SPF now comes in a wide variety of formats, designed to appeal to every skin type (these are the best SPFs for oily skin, BTW), skin tone (these sunscreens for dark skin won't leave a white cast) and concern, whether you're acne-prone or looking for an SPF for sensitive skin. So no matter what your preference—matte texture, invisible finish, mineral formula, fragrance-free, tinted—there really is something for everyone.
When it comes to daily sun protection, a lightweight, hydrating formula that disappears into the skin is hard to beat. That's why SPF waters have earned a permanent place in my routine. They don't feel heavy, leave greasy residue or a white cast, and most are very moisturising and ideal for using on-the-go or applying over makeup.
Ahead, find my reviews of the very best SPF waters, tried and tested. I also sought the opinions of two other beauty editors who I know are big fans of SPF mists and waters, to get their expert opinion.
What Is An SPF Water?
SPF waters have a viscous, clear formula, which is best applied to the skin via a spray. They're formulated to be hydrating and feel lightweight on the skin and often contain moisturising ingredients like hyaluronic acid and glycerin. Formulas may vary, but most SPF waters provide sun protection against UVB rays, which cause sunburn, and UVA rays, which contribute to long-term skin damage.
How to Apply SPF Waters
As most are applied via a spray or mist, I wouldn't recommend using SPF waters as your sole form of sun protection—they're best for top-ups. Simply spray on throughout the day to maintain your protection. Read up on our guide on how to apply SPF to make sure your skin is thoroughly protected.
The Best SPF Waters
- Best for over makeup: Ultra Violette Preen Screen SPF 50 Reapplication Mist, £23
- Best for body: Darling Mist-Me SPF50, £34
- Best for oily skin: Naked Sundays Cabanaclear Water Gel Serum SPF 50, £30
- Best for dry skin: Biore UV Aqua Rich Water Essence Sunscreen Spf 50, £10.66
- Best waterproof formula: Caudalie Vinosun Very High Protection Sun Water SPF 50+, £32
1. Ultra Violette Preen Screen SPF 50 Reapplication Mist
Few people want to reapply a cream or serum sunscreen over the top of their makeup, which is why SPF waters for the face are perfect for topping up sun protection throughout the day. This particular spray has an ultra-fine mist that won't disturb makeup, and it hydrates skin and boosts glow in the process. Ever since it launched this has been a handbag staple for me. It's lightweight and totally invisible, so is perfect for applying over makeup—and I also find it helps to set makeup and revive foundation that's starting to look a little cakey by 3pm.
Pros
- Lightweight and non-tacky finish.
Cons
- Strong fragrance and alcohol content.
Grace wearing Ultra Violette Preen Screen.
2. Darling Mist-Me SPF 50
If you're looking for a light, non-greasy body sunscreen, this is it. It contains nourishing ingredients, macadamia seed oil and vitamin E to deeply hydrate, whilst nectaria Lithops is an ingredient that enhances vitamin D synthesis, so you needn't worry about UV filters blocking out vitamin D from the sun. Finally, knotgrass extract, which is rich in antioxidant properties, guards against photoaging and infrared damage.
Who What Wear UK contributing beauty editor, Perdita Nouril says, "this settles on skin evenly so you don't have to worry about rubbing in. It feels a lot more like skincare than suncare, and there are no tell-tale chemical smells that you can get with other mists."
Pros
- Provides high sun protection
- Easy application
- Nourishing
Cons
- No tell-tale smell
3. Naked Sundays Cabanaclear Water Gel Serum SPF50
A gel-textured, water-based SPF is perfect for oilier skin types. This has a silky-smooth texture which melts into skin without leaving any chalky residue or white cast. What's more, it's formulated to prevent clogged pores and breakouts.
Pros
- Clear, gel-based formula that absorbs quickly
Cons
- Small size
4. Bioré UV Invisible Face Mist
"This truly weightless formula quenches thirsty skin and feels instantly refreshing—a must-have for summer," says Who What Wear UK contributing beauty editor, Perdita Nouril. "I've tried many J-beauty SPFs over the years, and this is the one I always come back to. Because it's a water essence, it's quite runny, but a little bit goes a long way, and the protection is unparalleled. Due to its ultra-hydrating formula, it's also hugely beneficial for dry and dehydrated complexions."
Pros
- Great for dry skin
- Gives skin a lovely glow
- A little goes a long way
Cons
- Small in size
5. Coola SPF 50 Organic Refreshing Water Mist Sunscreen
This SPF water is ideal for top-ups and cooling down in the heat. And if you have particularly sensitive skin, it ticks a lot of boxes. It's a mineral formula, alcohol-free, and contains soothing ingredients like aloe vera and coconut water.
Pros
- Refreshing feel
- SPF 50
Cons
- Can irritate sensitive eyes
6. Nuxe Sun Mist Fresh SPF 30
The key with spray-on SPF waters is to ensure that the spray has good coverage and doesn't just disappear into the air before it hits your skin. This one delivers on every front and also offers multiple forms of protection as it works on face and scalp. The coconut and vanilla scent also smells incredible.
Pros
- Easy application for body, face and scalp
- Feels refreshing on skin
Cons
- Scent might not be for everyone
7. Lancaster Sun Body Water SPF50
Lancaster Sun has an impressively extensive range of SPF waters, my favourite of which was this one—formulated to protect skin as well as repair any damage. It's meant for just the body, but the dry-touch formula means you can use it on your face, too.
Pros
- Dry touch formula that absorbs well
- Can be used on face
- Repairs as well as protects
Cons
- Not the easiest to rub in
8. Clarins Glowing Sun Care Mist SPF 50
Clarins' Sun Care range includes a gel, a stick, and an SPF water, so you can achieve full coverage sun protection from head to toe, literally. I particularly liked using this ultra-light water spray to protect my scalp.
Pros
- Suitable for sensitive skin
- Long-lasting protection
- Gives skin a lovely glow
Cons
- Expensive price point
9. Caudalie Vinosun Very High Protection Sun Water SPF 50+
This bi-phase sunscreen contains both oil and water, so it must be shaken before application to activate the formula. It's both refreshing and nourishing, and can be used on the face, body and scalp.
Pros
- Waterproof
- Long-lasting
- Nourishing
Cons
- Can feel heavy on the skin
10. Sculpted By Aimee Body Sun Mist SPF 30
I've long been a fan of Sculpted By Aimee make-up, so it's no surprise that this is also incredible. It gives skin a smooth texture and radiant finish, and feels incredibly hydrating. I also love the face version for preventing makeup from turning cakey or looking dry.
Pros
- Moisturising thanks to vitamin E
- Applies evenly
- Long lasting
Cons
- Not waterproof
11. Ultra Sun Face Mist SPF 50+
Ultrasun is one of the brands that dermatologists always recommend because it's dependable and highly advanced. The brand uses advanced Swiss lamellar technology to bind UV filters into a skin lipid-like structure, delivering long-lasting, broad-spectrum protection with excellent skin tolerance and a lightweight finish that typically doesn't require frequent reapplication under normal conditions.
"This is my go-to whenever I'm playing sport, swimming, or I know I'm to be on the beach all day. It's excellent for very dry skin or light skin tones that need high levels of protection," says Perdita.
Pros
- Great for sensitive skin
- Perfect for use when exercising
Cons
- Small bottle
12. Garnier Ambre Solaire Over Makeup Super UV Protection Mist SPF 50+
If you're on a budget, then Garnier's SPF mist is a great option to top up your SPF throughout the day. It delivers a fine mist that evenly coats the skin and is the perfect size to keep in your handbag.
"I always keep this SPF water in my bag for top-ups on the go," says Who What Wear UK beauty editor, Eleanor Vousden. "It lightly mists the skin, making it great for topping up over makeup or spritzing on any areas that need extra protection while you're out and about. The nimble size means it fits easily in my bag too."
Pros
- Affordable
- Small enough to pop in your bag for top-ups
Cons
- Can run out quickly
How We Tested
Over the past few weeks, we trialled a variety of SPF waters for both face and body, putting them to the test under and over makeup, on holiday, at the beach and on long work days. These are the best of the bunch, for every skin type and concern.
Why Trust Us
At Who What Wear UK, we know that beauty isn’t one-size-fits-all. Our editors have tested thousands of products, including skincare, makeup, hair and nails, over the years and work closely with trusted experts—dermatologists, make-up artists and leading industry insiders—to ensure every guide is well-researched, inclusive and relevant to you.
We focus on formulas that deliver, whether they’re affordable favourites or luxury investments. Our product selection is based on tangible results, ingredient know-how and what we’d truly recommend to a friend.