BLUE LIZARD Sport Mineral Sunscreen Spray SPF 50+, Dermatologist-Recommended Brand, Broad-Spectrum UVA/UVB Protection, Water-Resistant, Zinc Oxide Formula, Vegan, 5 fl oz

Why it's worth it

A zinc oxide and titanium dioxide spray with no chemical filters at all, made for reef zones and reactive skin. It rubs in clear and skips fragrance, parabens, and drying alcohols, which is unusual for a mineral formula you can spray.

If you snorkel, surf, or paddle where reef rules apply, this is the one to grab. Zinc oxide and titanium dioxide are the only filters that clear the strictest marine-protection standards, and this formula uses nothing else. Plenty of sunscreens advertise reef friendliness while still relying on chemical filters. This one doesn't have to hedge.

Mineral sunscreen usually loses athletes at the white-cast stage. This sprays on, rubs in, and disappears, which is why it works for people who'd never tolerate a thick mineral lotion under a wetsuit or a jersey. Owners who spend all day in direct sun — motorcyclists, sports photographers — report no burns as long as they apply thoroughly.

From our review of 8 sunscreens for outdoor activities, by Genevieve Dubois, Home & Living Expert

What we like

• +If you snorkel, surf, or paddle where reef rules apply, this is the one to grab
• +Mineral sunscreen usually loses athletes at the white-cast stage
• +The fragrance-free, alcohol-free formula is a genuine advantage for reactive skin, and it's a reasonable choice for kids old…
• +It carries the full 80-minute water resistance rating, so it's rated for the same immersion window as the lotions here

What to know

• –You have to use more than you think, and you have to rub it in
• –Nozzle failures come up often enough to mention