Editor Tip: The formula is only sweat- and water-resistant for up to 40 minutes (whereas some others have an 80-minute claim), so be prepared to reapply as needed.
Key Ingredients: Bisabolol, vitamin E, mica | Sunscreen Filter: Avobenzone, octisalate, octocrylene, homosalate | Who It’s For: Those looking for a luminous gleam | Fragrance-Free: No
Best Sunscreen Stick for Dry Skin: Live Tinted Hueguard Invisible Sunscreen Stick SPF 50
Why It’s Worth It: 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 finish. This water- and sweat-resistant sun stick can be used all over your face and body for optimal broad-spectrum SPF 50 UV protection. It’s also jam-packed with antioxidants, thanks to extracts from cloudberry (rich in beta-carotene and vitamin E) and dragonfruit (brimming with vitamin C). It’s also non-comedogenic, so you can rest easy knowing it won’t lead to clogged pores.
Editor Tip: Hot temperatures can potentially lead to the stick breaking, so don’t keep this in your hot car or beach bag for hours.
Key Ingredients: Cloudberry seed oil, rice extract, dragonfruit extract | Sunscreen Filter: Avobenzone, octisalate, octocrylene, homosalate | Who It’s For: Those with oily skin, or people with medium to dark skin tones | Fragrance-free: Yes
Best Sunscreen Stick for Little Ones: Cetaphil Sheer Mineral Sunscreen Stick SPF 50
Why It’s Worth It: People with sensitive skin will love Cetaphil’s Sheer Mineral Sunscreen Stick SPF 50 because of its gentle formula that’s free of fragrances, parabens, and chemical filters, including avobenzone, oxybenzone, and octinoxate. This lightweight sunscreen leaves behind a transparent veil of broad-spectrum SPF that protects skin from UVA and UVB rays. On top of sun protection, this sunblock provides moisture retention and helps prevent free radical damage via antioxidant vitamin E.
Editor Tip: Dr. Fahs says that her kids love this formula. Quick application with minimal fuss from the little ones? “A total win for a mom,” she says.
Key Ingredients: Hyaluronic acid, ceramides, glycerin | Sunscreen Filter: Zinc oxide, titanium dioxide | Who It’s For: Everyone | Fragrance-Free: Yes
Frequently Asked Questions
Are sunscreen sticks effective?
According to Fatima Fahs, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Camden, Minnesota, 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.)