9 of the Best Body Sunscreens That Do More Than Protect

Words by Lucy Cochrane

Sunscreens have come a long way in the last few years, and sticky textures and gloopy formulas are thankfully a thing of the past. Now, it’s all about quick-drying, lightweight offerings that don’t compromise on protection, turning application from a chore to a delight. And we’re not just talking about facial SPF products, either – body sunscreen has had the same glow-up, literally. We’ve rounded up the best body SPFs that do much more than protect, so you can find one that works for you.

The Best Body Sunscreens of 2025

Best for a Weightless Feel

Lancaster Sun Beauty Body Milk SPF 50

Lancaster is a no-brainer when it comes to high sun protection, and the Sun Beauty Body Milk SPF 50 makes it a fuss-free part of your routine. Lightweight and – crucially – non-greasy, the milky texture melts into skin, leaving an invisible, dry-touch finish that feels more like a hydrating body moisturiser than sunscreen. A Tan Activator complex helps encourage a golden glow in half the time of sun exposure, while the water-resistant formula means you’re covered for pool dips, too.

Mineral or chemical: Chemical

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Best for Face and Body

Shiseido Expert Sun Protector Face & Body Lotion SPF 50+

Applying SPF to your face is, hopefully by now, a non-negotiable step in your routine, but the body often gets overlooked outside of holiday season. Luckily, Shiseido’s Expert Sun Protector Face & Body Lotion SPF 50+ is designed for both face and body, so you can use its non-greasy, invisible formula to cover all bases. This water-resistant lotion actually strengthens when exposed to heat and water, providing seamless protection you won’t have to think twice about.

Mineral or chemical: Chemical

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Best for Fragrance

Sol de Janeiro Rio Radiance Body Spray SPF 50

If you’re after a sunscreen that leaves you smelling like your favourite fragrance while offering high protection, this one from Sol de Janeiro is a clear choice. Ideal for those who prefer the lightweight feel of a refreshing mist, the Rio Radiance Body Spray SPF 50 is infused with coconut water for a cooling sensation and leaves your skin drenched in the beachy scent of Cheirosa 87 – with notes of solar tuberose and leite de coco.

Mineral or chemical: Chemical

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Best for Outdoor Activities

Clarins Sun Care Cream Body SPF 50+

Consider this one from Clarins your ultimate all-rounder for enjoying the sun safely. The Sun Care Cream Body SPF 50+ delivers high broad-spectrum protection, powered by advanced filters and plant-based extracts. The moisturising formula leaves an invisible finish on all skin tones, while its water- and sweat-resistant credentials make it ideal for sports or other outdoor activities. Just remember to reapply (ideally every two hours) to stay fully protected.

Mineral or chemical: Chemical

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Best for On-The-Go Top-Ups

COOLA Mineral Body Sunscreen Spray SPF 30

Find a sunscreen you enjoy applying, and you’ll never have to worry about skipping it ever again. COOLA’s Mineral Body Sunscreen Spray SPF 30 transforms the experience with its barely-there feel and fast-absorbing continuous mist. The non-aerosol spray uses non-nano zinc oxide to deliver broad-spectrum mineral protection, while the brand’s antioxidant-rich Plant Protection complex helps defend against free radicals. Worried a featherlight formula means less protection? Fear not – it’s sweat- and water-resistant for up to 80 minutes.

Mineral or chemical: Mineral

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Best for Skincare Benefits

Dr Barbara Sturm Sun Cream Body SPF 30

A mainstay in supercharged skincare regimes, Dr Barbara Sturm brings its effective formulas to body sunscreen. Alongside the broad-spectrum benefits you’d expect, the Sun Cream Body SPF 30 also shields against infrared and HEV (blue) light, going the extra mile with anti-ageing science. This super-lightweight, fragrance-free sun cream helps reduce inflammation and strengthen the skin barrier, too, making it an excellent choice for sensitive skin.

Mineral or chemical: Chemical

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Best for Fast Application

Sun Bum Original Roll-On Lotion SPF 50

Left the house without applying sunscreen or need a quick touch-up? A roll-on product gives fuss-free coverage in seconds, and the Sun Bum Original Roll-On Lotion SPF 50 is as convenient as they come. This water-resistant formula shields against harmful UV rays while keeping your skin hydrated with antioxidant-rich vitamin E – known for helping to neutralise free radicals.

Mineral or chemical: Chemical

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Best for Beach Days

Eucerin Sun Gel Cream Dry Touch SPF50+

A more traditional sun cream texture doesn’t have to mean a greasy finish, and Eucerin’s Sun Gel Cream Dry Touch SPF50+ is proof. The ultra-light formula leaves an immediate dry-touch feel on the skin, thanks to oil-control technology with mattifying pigments. Extra water- and sweat-resistant – and even ‘anti-sand’ – it’s a go-to option if you have sensitive, oily or acne-prone skin.

Mineral or chemical: Chemical

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Best for Sensitive Skin

Julisis Sun Emulsion SPF 30

For sensitive skin or those allergic to conventional sun care, Julisis’ organic Sun Emulsion SPF 30 might just be the answer. This patented natural mineral formula is enriched with herbal extracts and the brand’s Liquid Silver Essence to hydrate and protect delicate skin, helping prevent skin damage and premature ageing. Bonus points – it’s also environmentally friendly and reef-safe.