Key Ingredients: hyaluronic acid, ceramides, glycerin | Sunscreen filter: zinc oxide, titanium dioxide | Who it’s for: everyone | 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 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.)
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,” board-certified dermatologist Roberta Del Campo, MD, previously told Allure.
Meet the experts
- Noah Levit, MD, PhD, a board-certified dermatologist of Dermatology Physicians of Connecticut based in Fairfield, Hamden, and Norwalk, CT
- Sonia Badreshia-Bansal, MD, a board-certified dermatologist and RealSelf expert based in Danville, CA
- Fatima Fahs, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Camden, Minnesota
- Mona Gohara, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in Hamden, Connecticut
- Roberta Del Campo, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Miami
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