10 Best Sunscreen Sticks For Complete Sun Protection In 2023
Keep these sunsticks handy and never burn through your UV shield again.
Dr. Anna H. ChaconMD, FAAD
Expertise: Dermatology
Experience: 9 years
Dr. Anna Chacon is a board-certified dermatologist specializing in medical, surgical, and cosmetic dermatology with over 9 years of experience. She enjoys practicing all aspects of dermatology and is licensed to practice in 49 states. She i... more
Shiboli Chakraborti Certified Skin Care Coach
Expertise: Skin Care & Hair Care
Experience: 3 years
Shiboli has a master’s degree in English literature from The English and Foreign Languages University, Hyderabad, and is a certified skincare coach with three years of experience. As an editor, she ... more
Sunscreen sticks are just as effective as gels, lotions, mineral powders, and sprays when it comes to protecting your skin. On the plus side, they are more effective on difficult-to-reach areas and delicate areas such as your cheeks, lips, and ears. Here, we have listed the best sunscreen sticks for you to try.
“With sunscreen sticks, there’s no reason to skip sunscreen because it’s never been easier or faster to apply your SPF. Sunscreen sticks are solid bars of sunscreen that you can quickly and easily apply to your face and/or body. Plus, because they’re tiny, they’re ideal for touch-ups, getting into hard-to-reach crevices, and reapplying on often burnt areas like the top of the nose and face,” says Dr. Anna Chacon, a board-certified dermatologist.
Sunscreen sticks are also mess-free, which is very beneficial for children. These sticks are lightweight, non-greasy, and get absorbed quickly into the skin. They don’t clog the pores and shield you from dangerous ultraviolet (UVB/UVA) rays that cause premature aging, sunburn, and skin cancer.
Sunscreen sticks endure a long time and are ideal for outdoor activities such as running, swimming, and other sports activities. Check out our top picks for this ingenious product and choose one that suits your preferences now. Keep scrolling!
In This Article
10 Best Sunscreen Sticks Available Right Now
1. Best Overall Sunscreen Stick: Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Stick Face & Body Sunscreen
Image: Neutrogena Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Sunscreen stick is useful for quick and mess-free application. The stick is oil-free and glides easily on the skin to provide sun protection. This broad spectrum SPF 70 sunscreen protects your skin from both UVA (skin aging) and UVB (skin burning) rays. It is formulated with Helioplex, a proprietary blend of oxybenzone and avobenzone for skin protection. This non-greasy, PABA-free sunscreen stick gives a matte finish and does not clog pores. Its lightweight formula provides sun protection for up to 80 minutes in water. It is recommended by dermatologists for both body and face. Check this video to find out the reasons for using the sunscreen.
Pros
- Broad spectrum SPF 70
- Oil-free
- Anti-aging formula
- Mess-free application
- Matte finish
- Lightweight
- Water-resistant (up to 80 minutes)
- PABA-free
- Non-comedogenic
Cons
- May cause mild irritation
2. Sun Bum Broad Spectrum SPF 30 Premium Sunscreen Face Stick
Sun Bum Premium Sunscreen Face Stick has SPF 30 that protects your skin from UV rays. This sunscreen stick contains vitamin E that moisturizes the skin while protecting it from free radicals and premature aging. This oil-free, hypoallergenic sunscreen does not clog pores. It is gentle on sensitive skin. It is reef-friendly, cruelty-free, and does not contain parabens or gluten. It offers sun protection for up to 80 minutes in water for activities such as swimming. It is easy to apply and recommended by the Skin Cancer Foundation (SCF).
Pros
- Broad spectrum SPF 30
- Non-comedogenic
- Moisturizes the skin
- Reef-friendly
- Oil-free
- Hypoallergenic
- Water-resistant (up to 80 minutes)
- Paraben-free
- Cruelty-free
- Gluten-free
Cons
- Contains octinoxate
3. Coppertone SPORT Sunscreen Stick
Coppertone SPORT Sunscreen Stick glides on easily to protect your skin from the harmful sun rays. It shields 97% of the UV rays that cause skin damage. It is water-resistant for up to 80 minutes. It does not come off when you sweat or burn your eyes. It is dermatologist-tested and highly recommended for sports and outdoor activities like cycling, swimming, jogging, etc. It is hypoallergenic and fragrance-free, making it safe for most skin types.
Pros
- SPF 50
- Dermatologist-tested
- Hypoallergenic
- Travel-friendly
- Fragrance-free
- Water-resistant (up to 80 minutes)
- Easy to apply
- Suitable for all skin types
Cons
- May leave white streaks on the skin
4. Bare Republic Mineral Sport Sunscreen Stick SPF 50
Bare Republic Mineral Sport Sunscreen Stick is cruelty-free, reef-friendly, biodegradable, and eco-conscious. It does not contain chemical actives, parabens, or synthetic fragrances. It is made with plant extracts, non-nano mineral actives (like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide), and powerful antioxidants. It provides SPF 50 coverage and UV protection. This mineral sunscreen stick is easy to apply and does not leave behind a white cast. Its non-greasy formula is water-resistant up to 80 minutes and perfect for outdoor sports or water activities like swimming and surfing. This sheer mineral sunscreen stick has a natural coconut and vanilla fragrance. Watch this video to know about the ingredients and benefits of the Bare Republic Mineral Sport Sunscreen Stick.
Pros
- Free of active chemicals
- Water-resistant (up to 80 minutes)
- SPF 50
- Does not leave a white cast
- Convenient
- Easy to apply
- Lightweight
- Non-greasy
- Biodegradable
- Reef-friendly
- Paraben-free
- Does not contain synthetic fragrance
Cons
- Does not moisturize the skin
5. Banana Boat Sport Performance Sunscreen Stick
Banana Boat Sunscreen Sport Performance Sunscreen Stick contains avobenzone and oxybenzone that protect the skin against UVA/UVB rays. Its broad-spectrum protection (SPF 50) is great to protect your skin from sunburn. This sunscreen stick is easy to use and protects areas like your ears, lips, nose, and face that are exposed to the sun. This sunscreen is water-resistant for up to 80 minutes. This long-lasting sunscreen stick contains cocoa butter, coconut oil, aloe vera, papaya, cocoa butter, and colocasia extracts. They protect the skin from premature aging and moisturize it. If you are looking for a sunscreen stick with soothing and moisturizing properties, this product is a good choice.
Pros
- Anti-aging formula
- Broad spectrum SPF 50
- Water-resistant (up to 80 minutes)
- Moisturizes the skin
- Soothes the skin
- Long-lasting
- Easy to apply
- Non-greasy
Cons
- May cause a burning sensation
6. Neutrogena Beach Defense Sunscreen Stick
Neutrogena Beach Defense Sunscreen Stick is a lightweight and oxybenzone-free sunscreen with SPF 50. It is formulated with the Helioplex technology that offers superior sun protection. It is recommended by dermatologists as it is clinically proven to reduce the risk of skin cancer upon regular use. It glides easily on the skin and is water-resistant for up to 80 minutes. It is also non-greasy and easy to apply. This skin care product does not contain PABA, making it a good option for sun protection.
Pros
- Water-resistant (up to 80 minutes)
- Broad spectrum SPF 50
- Lightweight
- PABA-free
- Dermatologist-recommended
- Mess-free application
- Oxybenzone-free
- Non-greasy
Cons
- Contains fragrance
7. Waxhead Sun Defense Sun Nourishing Sunscreen
Waxhead Sun Defense Sun Nourishing Sunscreen is 100 % toxin-free sunscreen with SPF 30. It contains non-nano zinc oxide, certified organic extra virgin coconut oil, beeswax, and vanilla extract for natural fragrance. This biodegradable sunscreen does not contain gluten, soy, corn, GMO, or dairy products. It is suitable for sensitive skin as it is free from common allergens. This oxybenzone-free product offers broad spectrum SPF 30 sun protection. The sunscreen is thick but gets absorbed quickly into the skin. It contains antioxidants and moisturizing ingredients that protect and hydrate the skin. This product protects the skin from sunburn and premature aging and reduces the risk of skin cancer.
Pros
- Reef-safe
- Non-greasy
- Broad spectrum SPF 30
- 100% toxin-free
- Moisturizes the skin
- Anti-aging formula
- Water-resistant (up to 80 minutes)
- Cruelty-free
- No oxybenzone or octinoxate
Cons
- Leaves behind a white chalky residue on the skin
8. Babo Botanicals Clear Zinc Sport Stick Sunscreen
Babo Botanicals Clear Zinc Sport Stick Sunscreen is a zinc-based sunscreen. This non-greasy sunscreen with SPF 30 is easy to use and convenient to carry. It gives you water-resistant coverage for 80 minutes. It is formulated for sensitive skin and safe for babies. This fragrance-free sunscreen stick is enriched with Babo’s Organic Nutri-Soothe Complex that contains soothing ingredients like jojoba, shea butter, and avocado. This eco-friendly mineral-based sunscreen does not contain oxybenzone, octinoxate, gluten, soy, dairy, or nuts. It is clinically tested and approved safe by the Environment Working Group (EWG).
Pros
- Gets absorbed quickly
- Non-greasy
- Soothes the skin
- Reef-friendly
- Water-resistant
- Oxybenzone- and octinoxate-free
- SPF 30
- Travel-friendly
- Fragrance-free
- Hypoallergenic
- No parabens, sulfates, gluten, soy, phthalates, soy, dairy, nuts
- Formulated for very sensitive skin
Cons
- Thick formula
9. Safest Stick Sunscreen: Thinkbaby Body & Face Sunscreen Stick
Thinkbaby Body & Face Sunscreen Stick with SPF 30 passed the Whole Foods Premium Care requirements and is rated safe by the European Working Group. It is safe for children over 6 months and adults as it is made with high-quality ingredients that are free from potential carcinogens. It does not contain any harmful chemicals like avobenzone, oxybenzone, parabens, phthalates, PABA, and 1,4 dioxane. It gets absorbed easily into the skin to protect it from UVA/UVB rays. This water-resistant sunscreen does not contain nano-zinc and is not tested on animals.
Pros
- Broad spectrum 30
- Gets absorbed quickly
- Mineral-based formula
- Water-resistant (up to 80 minutes)
- Paraben-free
- No avobenzone, oxybenzone, or 1,4 dioxane
- Non-oily
- Phthalate-free
- PABA-free
- Travel-friendly
- Cruelty-free
Cons
- Thick formula
10. Best Sunscreen-Cum-Skin Care Product: CeraVe Broad Spectrum SPF 50 Sunscreen Stick
CeraVe Sunscreen Stick is a physical sunscreen formulated with InVisibleZinc Technology that uses microfine zinc oxide to deflect the sun’s harmful rays. This mineral-based sunscreen stick is lightweight and oil-free so it spreads easily and dries with a clear finish. It provides broad spectrum sun protection and does not clog pores. This sunscreen contains three essential ceramides that repair and restore the skin’s natural barrier. It also contains hyaluronic acid that locks in moisture and hydrates the skin. This fragrance-free sunscreen stick is developed by dermatologists to deliver UVA/UVB protection to the skin. This water-resistant sunscreen is suitable for all skin types. Take a quick look at the video to understand the features, usage, and merits of the sunscreen stick.
Pros
- Broad spectrum SPF 50
- Lightweight
- Repairs the skin barrier
- Physical sunscreen
- Oil-free
- Easy to apply
- Water-resistant (up to 40 minutes)
- Non-comedogenic
- Moisturizes the skin
- Fragrance-free
- Suitable for all skin types
Cons
- Leaves a bluish-white cast on the skin
Dr. Anna Chacon, a board-certified dermatologist, says, “With sunscreen sticks, there’s no reason to skip sunscreen because it’s never been easier or faster to apply your SPF. Sunscreen sticks are solid bars of sunscreen that can quickly and easily apply to your face and/or body, making them ideal for someone who is always on the go. Because they’re tiny, they’re ideal for touch-ups, getting into hard-to-reach crevices, and reapplying on often burnt areas like the top of the nose and face.”
Infographic: Things To Consider Before Buying A Sunscreen Stick
Sunscreen sticks are travel-friendly options that cover even the most hard-to-reach areas of your skin and protect them from damaging UV rays. But before splurging on one, you must be aware of certain factors. Knowing the SPF range and the ingredients you must skip is important for your skin’s health.
Check out the infographic below to learn more about the factors you should consider before buying a sunscreen stick. Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team
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Download Infographic
Sunscreens are the most important part of a morning skin care routine. They protect your skin from harmful UV rays and prevent sunburns. The best sunscreen sticks are easy to use and allow you to apply the formula on even the hard-to-reach areas of the skin. The products mentioned above are enriched with broad-spectrum SPF and are reef-friendly. Some of them have non-comedogenic formulas and do not clog the pores. These sunscreen sticks are easily portable and can be applied even while on the go. However, some of these formulas may cause a burning sensation, and you should avoid them.
Why Trust StyleCraze?
The author, Shiboli Chakraborti, is a certified skin care coach, and here, she has reviewed the best sunscreen sticks for you. Sunscreen sticks are easy to use and super handy for mess-free touch-ups. The author has thoroughly researched the products to understand their composition and SPF. She also checked user feedback and reviews on trusted platforms to pick the best ones for the list.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better: sunscreen lotion or stick?
Sunscreen sticks are better than lotions as they are more effective in difficult-to-reach areas such as cheeks, lips, and ears. Also, sticks offer mess-free applications and last for a long time on your skin.
Are sunscreen sticks safe?
Yes, sunscreen sticks are safe for use, even on sensitive skin types. They get absorbed quickly into your skin, do not clog your pores, and protect your skin from harmful UVA/UVB rays.
Are sunscreen sticks okay to use on tattoos?
Yes, sunscreen sticks are okay to use on tattoos, provided your skin has completely healed from the wound created by the tattoo needles. Remember to use a mineral sunscreen stick and not a chemical formula to avoid irritating your tattooed skin.
Does ‘stick sunscreen‘ sit on top of the skin, or is it absorbed in a similar way to cream versions?
Stick sunscreens, like cream or lotion-based formulas, get easily absorbed into your skin. However, unlike cream sunscreens, sticks are lightweight and do not leave a white cast.
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