5 Best Sunscreen Sticks - Dec. 2022

Updated January 2022

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BestReviews spends thousands of hours researching, analyzing, and testing products to recommend the best picks for most consumers. We buy all products with our own funds, and we never accept free products from manufacturers.Read more

Bottom Line

Pros

Cons

Best of the Best

Shiseido

Sun Protection Stick Foundation

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Bottom Line

This sunscreen is easier to apply than the Coola brand, and it comes in a choice of tints, for a more finished look.

Pros

SPF 37. Glides on easily. Doesn't wear off with sweat. Holds up to swimming. Good for sensitive skin. Skin-friendly ingredients. Comes in a variety of tints, which help hide sun spots and age spots.

Cons

On the higher end of the price spectrum.

Best Bang for the Buck

COOLA Sport

Mineral Sunscreen Stick

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Bottom Line

Loved by swimmers and those with sensitive skin, this thick sunscreen stick gives good coverage and ample protection.

Pros

SPF 50. Goes on smoothly and doesn't leave your face white. Good for sensitive skin. Pleasant, spicy scent. Uses safe organic ingredients. Shea butter keeps your skin soft, nourished, and protected from moisture loss. Tamanu oil protects skin from UV rays. Coconut and avocado oil soothe the skin, while vitamin E protects skin from environmental damage. Comes in tinted and untinted option.

Cons

Can feel heavy on the face if you're not used to mineral-based or beeswax sunscreen. Sunscreen does not do well over makeup.

EiR NYC

All Natural Surf Mud Pro Stick

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Bottom Line

The EiR sunscreen stick is well-loved by surfers, who need serious protection. The product can be a bit dry and hard to apply, though.

Pros

SPF 50. A strong, thick sunscreen for surfing, hiking and other active sports. Good for sensitive skin. Smells delicious. Doesn't melt in the heat. Waterproof and hydrating. Contains zinc oxide for UV sun protection. Contains cocoa butter for deep hydration and antioxidants that fight free radicals. Free of parabens and sulfates. Cruelty-free.

Cons

Product is a little hard and dry.

Invented by an ocean lifeguard, this sunscreen is good for your skin and good for the sea life and coral reefs around you. Some, however, are turned off by the smell.

Pros

SPF 30. Can be applied under water. Can also work on lips. Reef safe. Doesn't run into the eyes when you sweat. Withstands harsh environmental conditions. Contains biologically active antioxidants, vitamins, minerals and extracts. Protects beyond 80 minutes. Formulated with unique organic Eco-Shield performance technology.

Cons

Oblong stick shape makes it difficult to apply to some parts of the face. Some do not like the scent.

Some reviewers swear by this product, but we think there are better options available.

Pros

SPF 30. Offers great nose and lip protection. Helps regenerate and revitalize your complexion. Increases skin's firmness while moisturizing.

Cons

Pricey for the quantity you get. Doesn't dry as expected.

HOW WE TESTED

We recommend these products based on an intensive research process that's designed to cut through the noise and find the top products in this space. Guided by experts, we spend hours looking into the factors that matter, to bring you these selections.

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Models
Considered

167

Consumers
Consulted

Hours
Researched

Sunscreen sticks are a favorite way to protect against the sun’s harmful UV rays for their convenience and portability. Throw one in a bag or use the quick application method of a few quick swipes on a struggling little one who hates the feel of lotion stay safe as you play in the great outdoors. Sunscreen sticks tend to be lighter and more comfortable on the skin, but still pack a powerful, protective punch to help prevent sunburns. Many are safe for sensitive skin, and won’t clog pores. Some also contain zinc, which will leave a white residue where applied, but deliver optimal sun protection. Some people only use this on areas that tend to burn easily, like the nose, ears, and scalp.

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