Get the same SPF sun protection as a liquid alternative with a handy and mess-free sunscreen stick.
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7 Best Sunscreen Sticks for Easy Application Against UV Rays
Updated May 30, 2024
Not everyone knows the dos and don’ts of wearing sunscreen. However, dermatologists emphasize the importance of wearing SPF all year round. While applying facial sunscreen might sometimes seem unnecessary, keeping a sunscreen stick in your bag or car offers a practical solution for staying protected against the sun.
Dermatologist Dr. Julia Carroll explains, “It is essential to use sunscreen daily, even on cloudy days, as the sun’s UV rays can still penetrate through clouds and windows.” Sunscreen sticks, with their mess-free and easy application, provide a convenient alternative to liquid body and face creams. We compiled a list of the best sunscreen solutions to suit every complexion and lifestyle.
Best overall
Cetaphil Sheer Mineral Sunscreen Stick
Pros:
- SPF 50
- Reef-safe sunscreen
- Easy to apply
- Chemical-free formula
- Affordable price point
Cons:
- May leave a slight white cast on darker skin tones
This sunscreen stick from Cetaphil has over 10,000 ratings on Amazon for good reason. Not only does it provide SPF 50, but it also nourishes and hydrates skin as you wear it. The big plus about this stick is how quickly and seamlessly it blends into the skin. Unlike other sunscreen sticks, which tend to have a thicker consistency, this one has a non-greasy formula that doesn’t leave a residue.
On the off chance that it does, try double cleansing. The combination of non-comedogenic ingredients also means it won’t cause inconvenient breakouts. Carry this 3.4-ounce travel-friendly bottle in your beach bag all summer long.
Best budget
Coppertone Sport Sunscreen Stick
Pros:
- Most affordable price on our list
- High SPF protection
- Water-resistant for up to 80 minutes
- Compact travel size
- Unscented
Cons:
- Some reviewers say it’s sticky
At less than $10, the Coppertone Sport stick offers everything you need in sunscreen. It has SPF 40 protection, water resistance capabilities and is the perfect size to take on the go. While great for the face, use it on other areas of your body like the arms, legs, neck, feet and ears. This stick is sure to be the MVP of every outdoor game this summer.
Best splurge
Shiseido Clear SynchroShield Sunscreen Stick
Pros:
- Featherweight consistency
- Suitable for face and body
- Packaging made of biodegradable materials
Cons:
- Some people may not like the scent
- Higher price point
My personal favorite sunscreen due to how well it works under or over makeup is the Shiseido Clear SynchroShield Stick. The formula is so light and blendable that it’s almost undetectable once applied. Even if you’re not wearing sweat-proof makeup, you won’t have to worry about looking shiny or dealing with a white cast residue.
A sunscreen for all skin types, this stick is ideal for keeping skin protected and matte all year round. Extra points for the sleek packaging and how soft skin feels at the end of the day.
Best on Amazon
Blue Lizard Sensitive Mineral Mini Sunscreen Stick
Pros:
- Over 2,700 five-star ratings on Amazon
- Reef-friendly formula
- Suitable for all skin types
- Smooth application
Cons:
- May leave a slight white cast
- About a third of the size of standard sunscreen sticks
This Blue Lizard mini stick is one of the most popular SPFs on the market and takes up the smallest space. It’s perfect for daily use because it’s fragrant-, paraben- and dye-free, making it extra gentle on sensitive skin. The zinc oxide-based formula has no active chemical ingredients and doesn’t contain oxybenzone or octinoxate, which can be harmful to coral reefs.
We love how this SPF 50 sunscreen goes on clear. Skin also gets naturally nourished with ingredients like aloe vera, shea butter, sunflower seed oil and vitamin E. Follow it up with a hydrating facial moisturizer to beat the summer heat.
Best for face
Supergoop! Glow Stick Sunscreen Stick
Pros:
- Easy application for sun-protected skin
- Cruelty-free formula
- Travel-friendly container
- Leaves a dewy finish
- Can be worn alone or with makeup
Cons:
- May not be the best choice for those with sensitive skin
There is nothing worse than thinking you carefully applied sunscreen only to look in the mirror at the end of the day and see a red nose, burning cheeks and scarlet shoulders. This Supergoop! Glow Stick has SPF 50, which keeps the classic suntraps on the face extra protected. It also adds a natural glow to the skin, making it the perfect highlighter for summer when applied to the upper cheekbones over foundation.
Best for body
Aveeno Protect + Smooth Mineral Sunscreen Stick
Pros:
- Suitable for face and body
- Fragrance- and paraben-free for sensitive skin
- Easy application
- Sweat- and water-resistant for up to 80 minutes
Cons:
- Thicker consistency
This Aveeno sunscreen has plenty of product for a mess-free, full-body application. Keep hands from getting sticky with this powerful SPF that works for everyone—even those with sensitive skin. Oat essence helps calm and soothe skin, alongside zinc oxide. It’s water- and sweat-resistant for up to 80 minutes so you can enjoy beach days without the burn.
Best mineral
Neutrogena Mineral Sunscreen Stick
Pros:
- Sealife-friendly mineral sunscreen
- Clear and matte finish
- Water-resistant
- Alternative to chemical SPF
Cons:
- Leaves a semi-white cast that takes a while to disappear
In recent years more people are becoming aware of the damage chemical sunscreens have not only on sensitive skin but also on coral reefs and marine life. Anyone who loves the ocean or tends to react to chemical SPFs should consider this mineral stick from Neutrogena. Kind on the skin and sealife, it has a surprisingly sheer finish for a stick sunscreen and it’s dry to the touch once applied.
What to look for when buying a sunscreen stick
While we often associate sunscreens with summer, it’s essential to wear it all year round—even on your scalp! That’s why it’s important to find the right sunscreen for your skin type. For those with sensitive skin, fragrance-free formulas are less likely to cause irritation.
If you have oily skin, non-comedogenic sunscreens help avoid breakouts. Dr. Carroll also recommends looking for sunscreens that contain antioxidants, such as vitamins C and E, to help repair and protect the skin while wearing them.
Why you should trust us
I am a beauty, skincare, fashion and interiors writer with more than 15 years of experience. I’ve written about a number of SPF-related stories for Reader’s Digest, including the best scalp sunscreens and reef-safe sunscreens. Additionally, my work has been published in InStyle, MindBodyGreen, Byrdie and more.
For this piece, I also consulted Dr. Julia Carroll, a dermatologist at Compass Dermatology. Dr. Carroll is a Fellow of the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons and a member of the Canadian Dermatology Association, Toronto Dermatologic Society, American Society of Dermatologic Surgeons and the American Academy of Dermatology.
How we found the best sunscreen stick
To find the best sunscreen sticks, we began by researching a wide range of options available on the market, considering factors such as ingredients, availability, type and price point. To narrow down our choices, we analyzed customer reviews to understand the real-world performance and reliability of each sunscreen stick. Finally, we consulted a skin expert to provide insights on the top sunscreen sticks to make sure we’re only recommending the best.
FAQ
Are sunscreen sticks effective?
Yes, sunscreen sticks are extremely effective in protecting against UV rays, especially on the nose and face. They work particularly well for anyone doing outdoor activities or when you’re looking for a quick and easy application.
How long does a sunscreen stick last?
These sunscreen solutions maintain their SPF factor for three years, but always double check a product’s expiration date. Also, don’t make the sunscreen mistake of setting it and forgetting it. Be sure to reapply every two hours, or more often if you’re swimming or sweating.
Is sunscreen cream better than stick?
This comes down to personal preference as they both offer natural sun protection. Sunscreen sticks, due to their mess-free application, are popular with beachgoers and families. Kids also tend to find sticks easier to apply than traditional creams.
Originally Published: June 12, 2023
