Sunscreen sticks are recommended for easy reapplication - but are they any good, and which are the best ones?
Most of us are aware that our skin is exposed to UV rays every single day – even when it's grey and cloudy outside, which is why it's advised to wear sunscreen year-round. Formulas have come a long way and a sun protection factor is now cleverly added to products such as serums, drops and setting sprays. The most important part of sun protection that we're still overlooking, however? Reapplication.
Enter: the sunscreen stick. While the concept of a solid sunblock isn't new – skiers and surfers have long favourited it for on-the-go convenience – there is an ever-growing list of new-generation sunscreens sticks that not just offer sun protection, but skincare benefits too, from brands like Shiseido, Supergoop! and Kopari.
So, what are the benefits of sunscreen sticks? How do they compare to suncreams and mists? And are there any downsides? We asked Dr Clare Kiely, Consultant Dermatologist and Co-Founder of The Skin Diary, to weigh in.
What are the benefits of sunscreen sticks?
Sunscreen sticks are a brilliant option for targeted protection. Their solid format makes them ideal for areas that are easily missed, such as around the eyes, nose, ears and lips, or for reapplying on-the-go without any mess. Because they're water-resistant and less likely to run into the eyes with sweat, they're also great for sports or hot climates.
Another major benefit is that they're easy to layer over makeup, which makes reapplication much more realistic and achievable throughout the day.
The best sunscreen sticks for summer
Clarins Invisible Sun Care Stick SPF 50
This transparent sunscreen stick also offers anti-wrinkle and anti-oxidant benefits thanks to the powerful duo of organic cocoa extract and vitamin E derivative.
£25 Shop
Kopari Pure Protect Mineral Stick SPF 50
This 100% mineral sunscreen stick is packed with vitamin E (to help protect skin against damage from free radicals) and bisabolol (to help calm and soothe skin after UV exposure.
£28 Shop
How do sunscreen sticks compare to suncreams and mists?
Each has its place. Creams tend to offer the most consistent and reliable base layer of protection, especially for dry or sensitive skin. Mists are convenient, but can be unreliable if not applied thoroughly or in windy conditions. Sticks are about precision and portability.
Think of sticks as a powerful support act, not necessarily a full-face solution on their own, but incredibly useful for reapplication and hard-to-reach areas.
What's the best way to use a sunscreen stick?
Apply directly to the skin in multiple passes – one swipe won't cut it! Dr Kiely recommends a back-and-forth motion over each area about four times to ensure adequate coverage. Then, use clean fingers to gently blend if needed, especially around facial contours.
They're perfect for reapplication every 2–3 hours, particularly on the nose, cheeks, and lips, which are areas that catch the most UV and are often the first to show signs of photoageing.
What ingredients or sun protection factor should we look for?
Always look for broad-spectrum protection, meaning coverage against both UVA and UVB. For sticks, a minimum of SPF 30 (but ideally SPF 50) is recommended, especially in high UV environments.
If you're acne-prone or sensitive, look for non-comedogenic formulas with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide (physical blockers), or newer generation chemical filters like encapsulated filters that offer strong UVA coverage with good tolerability.
Antioxidants are a welcome bonus, as they help neutralise free radical damage alongside UV protection.
Are there any downsides to sunscreen sticks?
The main limitation is coverage. It's easy to underapply, especially if you're using it as your only SPF. The solid format also means they can sit more heavily on oily skin, and some formulas may feel waxy or tug during application.
But when used correctly, especially as part of a multi-format SPF routine, they're an excellent tool, particularly for maintaining protection throughout the day without fuss.
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