‘Game changer’ sand and water resistant-SPF that ‘absorbs instantly’ is 50% off at Boots

Garnier Ambre Solaire’s new Sensitive Advanced Hydrating Sun Water SPF30 with Hyaluronic Acid is now under £9 – down from £16.99 – at Boots, Amazon and LookFantastic

Garnier’s Ambre Solaire has long been one of the most recognisable names in suncare, with generations of shoppers relying on the brand for affordable yet effective SPF. Now, its latest launch is being hailed a ‘game changer’ by holiday makers and sunworshipers looking to protect their skin from UV rays.

From the first ‘crème totale’, the first mousse, the first SPF, the first clear textures, and the first sensitive skin expert line, Garnier has spent decades evolving alongside changing beauty habits, becoming renowned for its pioneering innovations.

Now, as Ambre Solaire celebrates its 90th anniversary, Garnier has introduced a new Sensitive Advanced Hydrating Sun Water SPF30 . Designed for face, body, hair and scalp, the bi-phase formula promises high protection in an ultra-light mist that feels more like skincare than traditional sun cream.

The new launch taps into the growing demand for sunscreens that feel invisible on the skin. Infused with Hyaluronic Acid, the formula is designed to hydrate while offering triple resistance against water, sweat and sand, making it ideal for holidays, festivals and hot commutes alike.

Garnier says the lightweight spray leaves no white marks on any skin tone and offers an ‘addictive’ coconut and vanilla fragrance that lingers on both skin and hair for up to eight hours.

Unlike heavier creams that can leave skin sticky or greasy, the Sun Water has been created with a fast-absorbing, non-sticky texture that can easily be layered under makeup or reapplied throughout the day. It is also vegan, cruelty-free and dermatologically approved.

For shoppers considering alternatives, there are several competing SPF waters on the market. Caudalie’s Very High Protection Sun Water SPF50+ is £22 and absorbs ‘instantly without a greasy finish’, leaving skin feeling soft, hydrated and subtly scented with white flowers and coconut water.

At LookFantastic, the Ultrasun Family Wet Skin Spray SPF50 100ml is currently £17.60, down from £22. The spritz has been formulated to provide high UVA and UVB protection for adults and children over three years old.

Garnier beats them both on price with its Sensitive Advanced Hydrating Sun Water SPF30, which is usually £16.99, but is currently £8.49 at Boots, £8.50 at Amazon and LookFantastic, and at Tesco for those with a Clubcard.

Despite being new to the market, early reviews suggest the Sun Water is already proving popular. One said: “A total game changer if you hate that sticky, greasy feeling of traditional sun creams. Because it’s a bi-phase formula, you have to give it a good shake, but it sprays on so lightly and absorbs instantly. It feels cooling on the skin and didn’t clog my pores or cause any irritation, which is rare for my sensitive skin.”

Another added: “This is a lovely sunscreen that absorbs really well without any sticky or greasy feeling. It absorbs instantly and leaves skin feeling protected and smooth. It has a light vanilla fragrance. There’s no white cast or transfer.”

“Easy to use and doesn’t feel heavy on the skin,” said a third. “I love the easy-to-use spray and love the fact it leaves my skin feeling smooth and hydrated rather than heavy and clogged. It’s also sand and water-resistant, making this the perfect UV protection for those sunny days at the beach.”

Some have found the formula to be on the ‘tacky’ side, and it may not be for those who prefer oily textures. One said: “It’s a lovely product, however it does stay slightly tacky, which is a bit of a shame as it’s very light on the skin otherwise. I prefer a softer feel or a light oil feel, but it is a bit tacky on my face, so the only reason I am leaving is 4 stars as I have a preference for sun creams and mists.”

But another hailed it as ‘1 solid, budget-friendly daily SPF for sensitive skin’ They added: “I found it comfortable and effective, especially for everyday sun exposure. Not yet tried for intense beach days but I think it will absolutely give the coverages needed.”

While Garnier was founded in 1904, its Ambre Solaire brand has been around since the 1930s. Originally created after Garnier founder Eugène Schueller experienced sunburn himself, Ambre Solaire launched one of the first filtered tanning oils just as paid summer holidays became more accessible across Europe.

Through the decades, the brand adapted alongside changing lifestyles, introducing everything from hydrating family sun milks and after-sun care to kid-friendly SPF ranges and invisible spray formulas. And with rising trends on sensory experience in the beauty and wellness space, Garnier is showing no signs of slowing down.

Speaking on the new launch, Marc Baland, Garnier Global Brand President, said: “We have consistently brought suncare innovations that reflect the needs of our consumers throughout the decades: from the 1st filtered oil to our latest hydrating sun water, we have proven that high sun protection can deliver sensorial and pleasurable textures.”

With lightweight textures becoming one of the biggest trends in suncare, Garnier’s new Sun Water could be perfect for those looking to protect their skin from the sun, without the greasy feel of traditional formulas.