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Where some traditional sunscreen lotions leave a lot to be desired—convenience, for one—the best sunscreen sticks can fill in the gaps. Unlike the formulas that once left behind white casts, greasy residue, and nauseating scents (which can irritate sensitive skin types, no less), these portable sticks deliver UV protection without compromising on the wear and feel. These days, you can find elegant formulas that smell good, leave skin dewy, and blend seamlessly into dark skin tones—as they always should've been.
Once you find the best sunscreen stick for your preferences, it can be a great addition to lotions so long as you apply an adequate amount (four back-and-forth swipes are the baseline, according to our experts). Sticks, compact as they are, are also well-suited for touch-ups. Below, the best broad-spectrum SPF sticks worth adding to your skin-care routine.
Our Top Sunscreen Sticks
- Best Mineral Overall: EltaMD UV Stick SPF 50+, $39
- Best Chemical Overall: Innisfree Daily UV Defense Invisible Sunscreen Stick SPF 50+, $22
- Best Water-Resistant: Shiseido Ultimate Sun Protector Clear Stick SPF 60+, $33
- Best Dewy Finish: Supergoop Glow Stick SPF 50, $32
Frequently Asked QuestionsLargeChevron
- What are the downsides of sunscreen sticks?
- Are sunscreen sticks effective?
- How much sunscreen should I be applying?
- Meet the experts
- How we test and review products
- Our staff and testers
Best Mineral Overall: EltaMD UV Stick SPF 50+
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EltaMD
UV Stick SPF 50+
Amazon
Dermstore
Why we love it: We love EltaMD’s UV Stick SPF 50+ for what it doesn't have just as much as what it does. The fragrance-, dye-, and paraben-free formula glides on clear without leaving behind the chalky residue that often comes with mineral sunscreens. Its entirely mineral formula (powered by 22% transparent zinc oxide) delivers broad-spectrum SPF 50+ protection by reflecting and scattering both UVA and UVB rays. Meanwhile, a trio of antioxidants—vitamin E, oryzanol, and ethyl ferulate—neutralizes free radicals and minimizes oxidative damage caused by daily UV exposure. Bisabolol rounds out the formula to calm skin while protecting it, making the formula especially appealing for sensitive skin types.
Allure contributing commerce editor Deanna Pai applying the EltaMD UV Stick SPF 50+
Deanna Pai
Pai after applying the EltaMD UV Stick SPF 50+
Deanna Pai
Tester feedback from contributing commerce editor Deanna Pai
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“I love EltaMD's liquid sunscreens for everyday wear, so this was a no-brainer for me. I use this one before I head outside to run, since it's easy to swipe on and sinks in almost instantly—rather than me having to rub in a liquid before sweating it all off. I keep it in my entryway so I can tackle my toddler with it before she heads outside, too.” —Deanna Pai, contributing commerce editor
More to know
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- Key ingredients: vitamin C, ethyl ferulate, bisabolol
- Sunscreen filter: 22% zinc oxide
- Who it’s for: everyone
- Water-resistant: 80 minutes
- Fragrance-free: yes
Best Chemical Overall: Innisfree Daily UV Defense Invisible Sunscreen Stick SPF 50+
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Innisfree
Daily UV Defense Invisible Sunscreen Stick SPF 50+
Amazon
Sephora
Why we love it: If you're reapplying sunscreen without a mirror nearby and want zero risk of a white cast, a chemical formula like Innisfree’s Daily UV Defense Invisible Sunscreen Stick SPF 50+ is hard to beat. Unlike many sunscreen sticks that can feel greasy or waxy, this one glides on with a silky, almost powdery finish that helps control shine without feeling drying. The broad-spectrum SPF 50+ protection is paired with green tea extract and sunflower seed oil, which keep skin hydrated and nourished. Classic K-beauty ingredient, Centella asiatica (cica), adds a soothing touch to calm skin on hot, sticky summer days when heat and humidity can leave it feeling irritated.
Allure managing editor Alessandra Foresto applying the Innisfree Daily UV Defense Invisible Sunscreen Stick SPF 50+
Alessandra Foresto
Foresto after applying the Innisfree Daily UV Defense Invisible Sunscreen Stick SPF 50+
Alessandra Foresto
Tester feedback from managing editor Alessandra Foresto
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“Nothing beats how easy it is to carry a sunscreen stick around, and reapply on the go, without worrying that you didn't blend your sunscreen well enough and are now walking around with a white cast on your face. Just a reminder: One pass isn't enough to get the coverage you need to protect your skin from the sun. This one is truly invisible! The formula is also super duper hydrating (it contains cica), so it doesn't leave your skin feeling tight. I also find it makes for a nice makeup primer, particularly if your skin tends to be dry and flaky. This one promises you can reapply over sunscreen, and while I find sometimes my foundation rubs off on the stick a bit, it works!” —Alessandra Foresto, managing editor
More to know
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- Key ingredients: cica, green tea, sunflower seed oil
- Sunscreen filter: 2.7% avobenzone, 6.8% homosalate, 4.5% octisalate
- Who it’s for: everyone, especially those with dry or easily irritated skin
- Water-resistant: 40 minutes
- Fragrance-free: no
Best for Dry Skin: Bubble Sun Rise Mineral Sunscreen Stick Broad Spectrum SPF 40
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Bubble Skincare
Sun Rise Mineral Sunscreen Stick Broad Spectrum SPF 40
Ulta Beauty
Why we love it: If past sunscreen sticks have only emphasized your dry skin, meet Bubble’s Sun Rise Mineral Sunscreen Stick Broad Spectrum SPF 40. The 25% zinc oxide formula delivers broad-spectrum UV protection while a nourishing blend of squalane, shea butter, argan oil, meadowfoam seed oil, and coconut oil helps replenish moisture and soften tight or flaky skin. Aloe vera and bisabolol deliver anti-inflammatory benefits, helping comfort skin that’s been stressed by sun exposure, air conditioning, or both. And despite its lineup of rich, moisturizing ingredients, the formula glides on without feeling greasy and layers well both under and over makeup, according to our tester.
Allure senior staff writer Elizabeth Gulino applying the Bubble Sun Rise Mineral Sunscreen Stick Broad Spectrum SPF 40
Elizabeth Gulino
Gulino after applying the Bubble Sun Rise Mineral Sunscreen Stick Broad Spectrum SPF 40
Elizabeth Gulino
Tester feedback from senior staff writer Elizabeth Gulino
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"I like wearing tinted sunscreen as a base for my makeup, and this sunscreen stick from Bubble is great to throw in my bag for touch-ups throughout the day. Thankfully, it wears well over makeup. A plus: It's adorably packaged, and the bright yellow color makes it easy to find in my endless pit of a black bag. The formula applies smoothly and doesn't leave me feeling sticky.” —Elizabeth Gulino, senior staff writer
More to know
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- Key ingredients: squalane, aloe, sunflower seed wax, shea butter, argan oil, meadowfoam seed oil, coconut oil, bisabolol
- Sunscreen filter: 25% zinc oxide
- Who it’s for: everyone, especially people with dry or sensitive skin
- Water-resistant: not disclosed
- Fragrance-free: yes
Best Applicator: Abib Airy Sunstick SPF 50+
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Abib
Airy Sunstick
Amazon
Yesstyle
Why we love it: Another K-beauty favorite, we first fell for Abib’s Airy Sunstick SPF 50+ because of its wide, curved applicator, which hugs the contours of your face while making it easier to swipe across larger areas like your neck, shoulders, and arms. The chemical sunscreen formula also features silica and silicone powders to blur shine and create a smooth, almost primer-like feel, while ectoin and allantoin soothe skin and support the moisture barrier. Camellia seed oil and sunflower seed-derived ingredients add another nourishing touch, ensuring the semi-matte finish never looks chalky. If you prefer something with a little more glow, however, Abib's Quick Sunstick may be a better fit.
Allure commerce editor Sarah Han applying the Abib Airy Sunstick SPF 50+
Sarah Han
Han after applying the Abib Airy Sunstick SPF 50+
Sarah Han
Tester feedback from commerce editor Sarah Han
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“I'm on a journey of training myself to reapply sunscreen more often. I used to detest sunscreen sticks, but for the days I wear makeup (which is often), I'm giving them a shot. (Sprays aren't my thing, partially because I'm afraid they'll sting my eyes, and I haven't found an elegant enough SPF cushion yet.) For sticks, Abib's comes out on top so far, largely due to its wide, curved applicator. It hugs the contours of my cheeks, forehead, and chin, unlike other 'straight' bars, which makes application that much more pleasant/seamless. It's also clear from the very start, so I don't need any additional rubbing—no hands, ma! It does leave me a little dewier than before—especially since I do multiple passes per face area, which is vital when it comes to getting adequate protection from sticks—but not up to a point where I mind.” —Sarah Han, commerce editor
More to know
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- Key ingredients: ectoin, sunflower seed oil, allantoin
Sunscreen filter: 9.5% homosalate, 5% octocrylene, 4.5% octisalate, 3% avobenzone - Who it’s for: everyone, especially those with oily or combo skin
- Water-resistant: 80 minutes
- Fragrance-free: yes
Best Water-Resistant: Shiseido Ultimate Sun Protector Clear Stick SPF60+
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Shiseido
Ultimate Sun Protector Clear Stick SPF60+
Amazon
Nordstrom
Ulta Beauty
Why we love it: Most sunscreens become less reliable when exposed to heat, sweat, and water, factors that can make UV protection less consistent. But Shiseido’s Ultimate Sun Protector Clear Stick SPF 60+ does the opposite. The formula features the brand’s proprietary HeatForce and WetForce technologies, which help the sunscreen become more uniform and resilient when exposed to heat, sweat, and water. (How this works: HeatForce uses heat from the sun to help UV-filtering ingredients spread more evenly across skin at a microscopic level, while WetForce interacts with water and sweat to reinforce the sunscreen film rather than break it down.)
Just remember that you'll still need to reapply every two hours to maintain optimal protection. Beyond water resistance for up to 80 minutes, it’s infused with argan oil to keep skin soft and hydrated, while a blend of licorice extract and soy lecithin supports a more even-looking skin tone.
Allure content director Sophia Panych appyling the Shiseido Ultimate Sun Protector Clear Stick SPF60+
Sophia Panych
Panych after appyling the Shiseido Ultimate Sun Protector Clear Stick SPF60+
Sophia Panych
Tester feedback from content director Sophia Panych
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“I love the clear, silky formula that glides on effortlessly without disrupting your makeup underneath. I apply it whenever I feel I need an SPF touch-up throughout the day, especially if I find myself sitting outside for an unexpected period. The slim stick is the perfect size for running it over the tops of your cheekbones (great for when you're in a car or on a plane), along your forehead, and down the bridge of your nose. The clear, solid stick imparts a lovely, subtle sheen without it feeling greasy, so I actually find myself wanting to apply it to give my skin a little glow boost. Someone with oily skin may not want that extra bit of shine (though I love it). The non-greasy texture is great for the beach because hair and sand don't stick to it (it also doesn't get all melty and gross under the sun). And because it's completely clear, you can apply it all over your face and neck without worrying about leaving any streaks. It also has a faint, marine-like scent that smells like summer in a tube.” —Sophia Panych, content director
More to know
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- Key ingredients: ProfenseCL (licorice extract, soy lecithin), argan oil
- Sunscreen filter: 2.5% avobenzone, 11% homosalate, 5% octisalate, 9% octocrylene
- Who it’s for: everyone, those who stay active
- Water-resistant: 80 minutes
- Fragrance-free: no
Best Matte Finish: Dr. Jart+ Every Sun Day Invisible Korean Sunscreen Stick SPF 40
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Dr. Jart+
Every Sun Day Invisible Korean Sunscreen Stick SPF 40
Amazon
Sephora
Why we love it: In Korean skin-care culture, sunscreen isn’t a once-in-a-while thing—it’s an everyday essential. So when you try the Dr. Jart+ Every Day Sun Day Invisible Korean Sunscreen Stick SPF 40, you know you’re getting something special with this SPF—a lightweight, invisible, and mattifying sunscreen that’s made for everyday wear, not just beach vacations. It’s infused with hyaluronic acid, which helps skin stay hydrated by drawing in moisture and locking it in. That means instead of leaving your skin dry or chalky like some sunscreens do, this one actually glides on to keep it smooth and comfortable all day.
Allure contributing editor Kara McGrath applying the Dr. Jart+ Every Day Sun Day Invisible Korean Sunscreen Stick SPF 40
Kara McGrath
McGrath after applying the Dr. Jart+ Every Day Sun Day Invisible Korean Sunscreen Stick SPF 40
Kara McGrath
Tester feedback from contributing editor Kara McGrath
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“If you want a matte sunscreen, this is the one to go for. It really does feel like a makeup primer: It applies without even a whisper of the usual sunscreen grease, making it great for both layering under makeup in the morning and midday touch-ups. I'm not usually a fan of matte things, since they can be a bit drying, but this sunscreen adds a bit of light hydration. Also, it doesn't pill when layered over my other skin care.” —Kara McGrath, contributing editor
More to know
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- Key ingredients: hyaluronic acid
- Sunscreen filter: avobenzone, homosalate, octisalate, octocrylene
- Who it’s for: everyone, but especially for uneven texture and oily skin types
- Water-resistant: not disclosed
- Fragrance-free: yes
Best Dewy Finish: Supergoop Glow Stick SPF 50
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Supergoop!
Glow Stick SPF 50
Amazon
Nordstrom
Ulta Beauty
Why we love it: With more than 50 SPF offerings spanning sunscreen sprays, lotions, and powders, Supergoop certainly isn't lacking in options. Still, we find ourselves repeatedly reaching for the Glow Stick SPF 50 because it gives skin the kind of lit-from-within radiance you'd normally expect from a highlighter—without any actual shimmer, sparkle, or glitter. The jelly-like stick, a favorite of Dr. Fahs, glides on seamlessly without disturbing makeup and leaves skin looking dewy, fresh, and juicy. In addition to broad-spectrum SPF 50 protection, the formula is infused with nourishing plant oils, including buriti, meadowfoam seed, sunflower seed, tamanu, and pracaxi, to keep skin soft and hydrated while imparting a glow.
Allure contributing commerce writer Christa Joanna Lee applying the Supergoop Glow Stick SPF 50
Christa Joanna Lee
Lee after applying the Supergoop Glow Stick SPF 50
Christa Joanna Lee
Tester feedback from contributing commerce writer Christa Joanna Lee
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"While it looks like a glue stick, but it's anything but sticky. Supergoop's Glow Stick SPF 50 glides onto skin completely invisible—you don't even need to rub it in. In fact, the only real sign it's there is the subtle sheen it leaves behind. That said, I think this shines brightest as a reapplication sunscreen rather than my primary "base" SPF that I put on firs thing in the morning. Because the stick has a relatively small surface area and goes on clear, I find it harder to feel completely confident that I've applied enough product evenly across my face as my first layer of sunscreen. But for touch-ups throughout the day, it's so convenient and doesn't smudge my makeup." —Christa Joanna Lee, contributing commerce writer
More to know
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- Key ingredients: buriti, meadowfoam seed, sunflower seed, tamanu, and pracaxi oils
- Sunscreen filter: 3% avobenzone, 5% octisalate, 10% octocrylene
- Who it’s for: dry skin types, or anyone seeking a gleam
- Water-resistant: 40 minutes
- Fragrance-free: yes
Best for Active Lifestyles: Colorescience Sunforgettable Total Protection Sport Stick SPF 50
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Colorescience
Sunforgettable Total Protection Sport Stick SPF 50
Amazon
Dermstore
Why we love it: If breaking a sweat is part of your daily routine, the Colorescience Sunforgettable Total Protection Sport Stick SPF 50 is built to keep up. This sunscreen stick defends against a full range of environmental stressors, including UVA/UVB rays, pollution, blue light, and infrared radiation. Perfect for outdoor workouts, beach days, and everything in between, “its water-resistant formula is ideal for active lifestyles, providing up to 80 minutes of defense during swimming or sweating,” says Sonia Badreshia-Bansal, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Danville, CA.
Plus, it feels elegant. "It’s non-greasy, with a dry-touch, matte finish that’s completely invisible once applied,” adds Noah Levit, MD, PhD, a board-certified dermatologist in Fairfield, Hamden, and Norwalk, Connecticut. “It’s sweat- and water-resistant, with no stinging or burning—even when you start to perspire—which makes it especially ideal for sensitive areas like the eyelids or for people with eczema.” He also notes that it’s great for acne-prone skin.
More to know
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- Key ingredients: squalane, jojoba, candelilla wax
- Sunscreen filter: zinc oxide
- Who it’s for: people who are active
- Water-resistant: 80 minutes
- Fragrance-free: yes
Best For Sensitive Skin: Blue Lizard Sensitive Mineral Sunscreen Stick SPF 50+
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Blue Lizard
Sensitive Mineral Sunscreen Stick SPF 50+
Amazon
Ulta Beauty
Why we love it: The catch-22 of sunscreen for sensitive skin? The wrong formula can leave it red, stinging, or irritated, but skipping sun protection isn't exactly an option either. Blue Lizard’s Sensitive Mineral Sunscreen Stick SPF 50+ takes the guesswork out of the equation. “It’s made with zinc oxide and titanium dioxide for solid, broad-spectrum protection, and it’s formulated specifically for sensitive skin,” says Dr. Badreshia-Bansal. “No parabens, no fragrances—so it’s less likely to irritate.” It’s also water- and sweat-resistant for up to 80 minutes, so it won’t quit halfway through your hike or pool day; it’s also infused with botanicals like aloe vera and jojoba oil.
More to know
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- Key ingredients: shea butter, coconut oil, sunflower seed oil, jojoba seed oil, squalane
- Sunscreen filter: zinc oxide
- Who it’s for: everyone, especially sensitive skin types
- Water-resistant: 80 minutes
- Fragrance-free: yes
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the downsides of sunscreen sticks?
While sunscreen sticks are incredibly convenient and precise, they do have their limitations—namely, they can’t really serve as a body sunscreen. “The other side of the coin is that it’s hard to cover a large body surface area,” says Dr. Levit. “The stick won’t do the heavy lifting—you’ll need to supplement that with cream or lotion that can cover a broader surface area.”
That said, there are obvious benefits to your skin-care routine. “Sunscreen sticks offer a convenient and mess-free method for applying sun protection, making them ideal for targeted areas like the face, ears, and shoulders,” explains Dr. Badreshia-Bansal. “Their solid form ensures portability and ease of use without the risk of spillage”—a significant plus for travel, reapplication, and anyone constantly on the go
Are sunscreen sticks effective?
According to Dr. Fahs, broad-spectrum solid stick formulas perform just as well as the best liquid sunscreens. But, as with any sunscreen, you must apply and reapply the right amount for sufficient broad-spectrum protection. (More on that in a bit.)
Another bonus of sunscreen sticks: They're fabulous for applying SPF to smaller, more sensitive areas, such as eyelids. "The skin [around the eyes] is more fragile and thinner, making it more susceptible to fine lines and photoaging, so sunscreen is essential," Mona Gohara, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in Hamden, Connecticut, previously explained—which is why she recommends using a sunscreen stick. Do you have a fresh, colorful tattoo you want to preserve? Sunscreen sticks are great for that, too.
How much sunscreen should I be applying?
Because you can't see how much of a sunscreen stick you're using up—for example, two fingers-length worth for the face—Dr. Fahs says, "The more the merrier in general, but I tell patients to apply four passes back and forth on each area of application to make sure you get a good amount on." She also recommends rubbing in the sunscreen so every inch is accounted for. Dr. Fahs also recommends applying your sunscreen stick on dry skin—for any skin care you slather on beforehand, make sure it's fully dry—so the formula "stays put."
And don't forget: Reapplication is essential for maintaining UV protection throughout the day. "Reapply every two hours at a minimum but more often if sweating or immersed in water," Miami-based board-certified dermatologist Roberta Del Campo, MD, previously told Allure.
Meet the experts
- Sonia Badreshia-Bansal, MD, a board-certified dermatologist and RealSelf expert based in Danville, CA
- Roberta Del Campo, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Miami
- Fatima Fahs, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Camden, Minnesota
- Mona Gohara, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in Hamden, Connecticut
- Noah Levit, MD, PhD, a board-certified dermatologist of Dermatology Physicians of Connecticut based in Fairfield, Hamden, and Norwalk, CT
How we test and review products
When Allure tests a product, our editors look at it from every angle in an effort to best serve you. We review ingredients, scrutinize brand claims, and, when necessary, examine peer-reviewed scientific and medical studies. In addition to testing each and every product that’s included in each and every review, we rely on experts who shape their fields, including dermatology, cosmetic chemistry, and medicine, to help us vet the ingredients and formulas.
For our list of the best sunscreen sticks, we considered each product's performance across five primary categories: product ingredients and efficacy, packaging, fragrance, texture, and product wear. Every product was determined to have excelled in each category by our editorial team, which is composed of in-house writers and editors as well as contributors—along with special consideration from board-certified dermatologists. To learn more information on our reporting and testing processes, read our complete reviews process and methodology page.
Our staff and testers
A beauty product is a personal purchase. You might be searching for a face cream to address persistent dryness or a new nail product to add to your Sunday self-care routine; you may simply be browsing around for the latest launches to hit the hair market. No matter what you seek or your individual needs and concerns, Allure wants to ensure that you love anything we recommend in our stories. We believe that having a diverse team of writers and editors—in addition to the wide range of outside testers and industry experts we regularly call upon—is essential to reaching that goal.
After all, can we really say a skin-care product is the "best" for people over 50 if the only testers we’ve solicited opinions from folks who have yet to hit 30? Can we honestly deem a high-end diffuser worthy of your hard-earned cash if it’s never been tested on curls? We’re proud that our staff spans a wide range of ages, skin tones, hair textures, genders, and backgrounds, which means that we are able to fairly assess any beauty product that comes into the beauty closet.