After Testing 20+ SPF Waters, These Are the 12 Worth Buying This Summer

Best for: Normal to dry skin.

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.

Best for: Dry skin.

If you're looking for a light, non-greasy body sunscreen, this is it. The bi-phase formula contains nourishing ingredients like squalane and buriti oil to soften and moisturise skin whilst it protects.

Best for: Oily to combination skin.

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.

Best for: Dry skin.

Due to their ultra-hydrating formulas, SPF waters are hugely beneficial for dry and dehydrated complexions. This truly weightless formula quenches thirsty skin and feels instantly refreshing—a must-have for summer.

Best for: Normal to dry skin.

This SPF water only has a sun protection factor of 15, so it's definitely one for top-ups, rather than daily wear. However if you have particularly sensieitve skin, it ticks a lot of boxes. It's a mineral formula, alcohol-free, and contains soothing ingredients like aloe vera and coconut water.

Best for: Normal to dry skin.

Vicky has an impressively extensive range of SPF waters, my favourite of which was this one—formulated with hyaluronic acid for deep and lasting hydration. It can be used on both face and body, and has a non-staining formula, so won't leave marks or residue on clothes.

Best for: Sensitive skin.

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.

Best for: Normal to dry skin.

This bi-phase sunscreen contains both oil and water, so must be shaken before application to activate the formula. It's both refreshing and nourishing, and can be used on face, body, and scalp.

Best for: Dry to combination skin.

Part water and part gel, this majorly glow-boosting sunscreen is one of my favourite formulas to wear under makeup. It gives skin a smooth texture and radiant finish, and feels incredibly hydrating, preventing makeup from turning cakey or looking dry.

Best for: Normal to dry skin.

This cult K-beauty sunscreen is another water-gel formula. Again, those with dry and dehydrated skin will benefit from the hydration-boosting formula, but it works well for all skin types and concerns.

Best for: All skin types

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.

Eleanor's review: "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."