5 Best Sunscreen Sticks - June 2023

Updated January 2023

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Bottom line

Pros

Cons

This SPF 50 sunscreen stick is mess-free and compact, making it great for traveling.

Pros

This dry oil sunscreen stick is made with a hydrating formula and is easy to apply on the face, chest, and shoulders. It's invisible, doesn't leave behind residue, and is loaded with antioxidant-rich Amazonian oils to nourish the skin.

Cons

It gives wearers a dewy glow, which some appreciate, but others find unpleasant.

Best Bang for the Buck

Neutrogena

Beach Defense Water-Resistant Sunscreen Stick

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Bargain Pick

Bottom Line

Frequent beach-goers will appreciate this lightweight, mess-free sunscreen stick.

Pros

This broad-spectrum SPF 50+ sunscreen stick is suitable for the face and body and perfect for a beach day. It's water-resistant for 80 minutes and is formulated with Helioplex, a sunscreen technology that provides superior UV protection.

Cons

There are rare reports of skin irritation.

AHC

Natural Perfection Double Shield Sunscreen Stick

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Most Versatile

Bottom Line

This multifunctional Korean sunscreen stick is ideal for everyday wear and hot days at the beach or pool.

Pros

This long-lasting sunscreen stick is made with a hydrating formula suitable for sensitive skin. It has whitening and wrinkle-improvement properties and uses the patented UV IR Block to protect the skin from UV rays and infrared radiation.

Cons

It can leave residue behind if too much is applied.

Banana Boat

Kids Sport Sunscreen Stick

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Best for Kids

Bottom Line

This sunscreen stick is pediatrician-recommended and provides superior skin protection for kids.

Pros

It's made with a lightweight, quick-absorbing formula that's ideal for sensitive skin and is water-resistant for up to 80 minutes. It's reef-friendly and doesn't contain oils or fragrances. Plus, it has a soothing gel effect that softens the skin to help prevent peeling.

Cons

There are reports of it melting or breaking.

Invented by a lifeguard, this sunscreen is good for your skin and good for sea life. Some, however, are turned off by the smell.

Pros

SPF 30. Can be applied underwater. 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.

Cons

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

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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