Mess-free SPF application is right this way.
Sun protection is the most important part of your skin care routine, but you probably already know that. However, some of us run into issues when using classic sunscreen – white spots, greasy residue, and a pungent smell (which can be irritating to sensitive skin types) are just the beginning. That’s why when we need protection from UV rays, we reach for one of the best sunscreen sticks.
Fatima Faas, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in Camden, Michigan, says the solid broad-spectrum formula in stick form is just as effective as the lotion. As with any sunscreen, you need to apply the right amount of formula to get and maintain broad-spectrum protection. “Generally the more the better, but I recommend patients ask for four trips back and forth with each application to make sure they get a sufficient amount,” says Dr. Fahs. “After applying, rub it in a little to make sure there are no gaps.” She also recommends applying the sunscreen stick to dry skin to keep the formula “in place.”
Overall, says Dr. This means that when used correctly, sunscreen sticks can be a great alternative to lotions. Check out the 11 best broad-spectrum sun protection factor (SPF) facial sticks you can buy below.
EltaMD UV Stick SPF 50+
According to Dr. Fahs, EltaMD’s UV Stick SPF 50+ is one of the best stick formulas to hit the market recently due to its water-resistant mineral formula. Enriched with zinc oxide, this fragrance-free sunscreen stick delivers broad-spectrum SPF and is compact enough to fit in your bag for easy and clean application.
Live Tinted Hueguard Invisible Sunscreen Stick SPF 50
The beauty of Live Tinted’s Hueguard Invisible Sunscreen Stick SPF 50 is that it’s completely transparent and glides smoothly on the skin thanks to its gel-like surface. This water-resistant, sweat-resistant sunscreen stick can be applied to the face and body and provides the best broad-spectrum UV protection with SPF 50.
Kinlò Sunscreen Stick SPF 30
While Kinlò Sunscreen Stick SPF 30 looks more like a lip balm than a sunscreen stick, the brand guarantees that this solid formula is designed for all exposed skin areas. This mineral sunscreen protects your skin from harmful UV rays, so it’s packed with ingredients like soothing aloe vera, antioxidant vitamin E and nourishing sunflower oil to provide intense hydration.
Banana Boat Sport Ultra Sunscreen Stick SPF 50
Banana Boat Sport Ultra Sunscreen Stick SPF 50 is designed for the days when you sweat the most. This drugstore sunscreen stick is completely sweat-proof and waterproof, so you can sweat without worrying about your SPF getting smudged.
Blue Lizard Sensitive Mineral Sunscreen Stick SPF 50
Sensitive skin types should definitely check out Blue Lizard Sensitive Mineral Sunscreen Stick SPF 50. This gentle mineral sunscreen has a matte finish, is gentle on the skin, and contains no harsh substances like fragrances or dyes.
Shiseido Clear Sunscreen Stick SPF 50+
Shiseido’s Clear Sunscreen Stick SPF 50+ is a standout sunscreen stick that won a Best of Beauty award back in 2021 and is still favored by our editors and dermatologists (including Fahs). The non-greasy formula is water- and sweat-proof for up to 80 minutes and has a sheer, dewy finish that works well on its own or under makeup.
Supergoop Glow Stick SPF 50
If you’re interested in a glow-boosting product, Dr. Fahs launches Supergoop’s Glow Stick SPF 50 . This fragrance-free formula is completely sheer and contains a blend of hydrating Pracaxi, Tamanu and Buriti oils to boost skin’s radiance.
Cetaphil Sheer Mineral Sunscreen Stick SPF 50
Sensitive skin types will love Cetaphil’s Sheer Mineral Sunscreen Stick SPF 50 because it’s formulated to be gentle and free of fragrance, parabens, and chemical filters like avobenzone, oxybenzone, and octinoxate. This lightweight sunscreen leaves behind a clear barrier of broad-spectrum SPF, protecting skin from damaging UVA and UVB rays. In addition to sun protection, this sunscreen also moisturizes and protects against free radical damage with the antioxidant vitamin E.
PhD. Fahs says she loves this sunscreen as much as her kids do—for little ones, something that can be applied quickly with minimal effort? “For a mother, this is a complete victory,” she said.
Sun Bum Original SPF 50 Sunscreen Roll-On Lotion
Sun Bum’s Original SPF 50 Sunscreen Roll-On Lotion makes application (and re-applying, since you still have to apply) much easier thanks to its ball-on head that evenly distributes the formula. Speaking of formula, this mineral sunscreen is packed with vitamin E to fight free radicals and lock in moisture.
Coola Classic Sunscreen Stick SPF 30
Coola’s Classic Sunscreen Stick SPF 30 may smell like a tropical vacation, but that’s not the only reason we love this coconut-scented sunscreen stick. Based on chemical sunscreen filters, this waterproof formula contains an antioxidant-rich blend of Prickly Pear Extract, Red Raspberry Seed Oil, Buriti Oil, and White Grass Seed Oil to hydrate and fight skin-damaging free radicals .
CeraVe Sunscreen Stick SPF 50
Dry skin should try CeraVe Sunscreen Stick SPF 50. This oil-free formula contains hydrating hyaluronic acid and three different types of hydrating ceramides to nourish and soften skin on the face and body.