dailynewsnblog
As someone who wears SPF every single day, even in the depths of winter, I’ve long accepted that applying sunscreen is only half the battle. The real challenge? Remembering—and actually wanting—to reapply it. Sure, during the winter months when sunlight feels like a distant memory, that morning application will probably tide you over, but in the height of summer it really doesn’t cut it. Yet between commuting, running errands, school drop-offs and general day-to-day life, carrying a full-size sunscreen isn’t always practical. Which is why I’ve become such a fan of SPF sticks.
Compact enough to slip into even the smallest handbag (unlike most SPF sprays), they make topping up your sun protection as effortless as it can be. A few quick swipes across the face and you’re done—no messy hands, no spills and, with the best formulas, no greasy residue or white cast either. They’ve become my go-to for keeping my SPF topped up throughout the day, and I’ll happily scribble them onto the foreheads, shoulders and shins of anyone in my vicinity who needs a top-up.
The Best SPF Sticks
(Image credit: @micaricketts)
1. CeraVe Invisible Sun Stick SPF 50
CeraVe
Invisible Sun Stick SPF50+
I swear by CeraVe’s Invisible Hydrating Sunscreen SPF 50+ for myself and my kids (so much so that we went through an entire bottle during the recent heatwave), so I had high hopes for the matching sun stick. I love this because it has a balmy texture that glides effortlessly onto the skin without dragging, and it’s enriched with ceramides and hyaluronic acid so it feels hydrating on the skin without being greasy. It is quite a skinny stick, so it’s particularly brilliant at applying to lips, around the eyes and nose where I often catch the sun, and even along my hairline, and it takes up barely any space in my handbag. Plus, the bright yellow packaging makes it easy to spot, which is always a win when you’re already feeling a bit frazzled in the heat.
Pros
- Comfortable, moisturising feel
- Small and portable
Cons
- I go through it quite fast
2. Nuxe Sun Stick Serum SPF 50
Nuxe
Sun Stick Serum SPF50
Dry, dehydrated or mature skin types will love this SPF stick, which feels more like skincare than a traditional sunscreen. Infused with a serum of moisturising castor oil, antioxidant-rich sunflower seed extract and soothing rosemary leaf, it melts into the skin to leave behind a healthy glow. Plus, it has the most beautiful tropical scent—think sweet coconuts and heady tiare flowers—so it feels like a sensorial experience rather than a chore. And, of course, there’s SPF 50 to ensure you’re protected from the sun. If you prefer a really matte finish, then you won’t love this, but it’s perfect if you want to top up your sunscreen whilst adding luminosity to the skin.
Pros
- Luxurious skincare-inspired texture
- Smells amazing
Cons
- The dewy finish won’t suit really oily skin types
3. La Roche-Posay Anthelios UVSPORT Pro-Resistance Stick SPF50+
La Roche Posay
Anthelios UVSPORT Pro-Resistance Stick SPF50
This is the SPF stick to throw in your back pocket if you’re heading out for a run, a long walk or if (like me) you spend a lot of time outdoors during the summer running around after your kids and working up a sweat. It’s clearly designed with movement in mind and stays put impressively well, even when I’m warm and the upper lip sweat is real. The formula grips the skin without feeling sticky, though its staying power means it isn’t the most hydrating on the list. It’s particularly good on high-exposure areas like ears, nose and cheekbones where I often find that my sunscreen can disappear fast. It’s practical rather than pampering, but that’s exactly what I want from an SPF designed for active days
Pros
- Sweat- and water-resistant
- Ideal for sport and outdoor activities
Cons
- The finish feels slightly firmer than other more everyday options
4. Supergoop! Glow Stick SPF 50
Supergoop!
Glow Stick SPF 50
Typically I’m a bit of a purist when it comes to sunscreen—I just want to know that my skin is protected—but even I can’t resist an SPF that is basically glass skin in stick format. This stuff has a dry oil feel that glides onto skin and leaves behind the most beautifully glossy finish that looks incredible when it catches the light. Of course, for touch-ups this is best applied all over, but doubling up on cheekbones and the bridge of the nose almost gives the skin a highlighted effect. Despite the shine, it doesn’t feel sticky or heavy, and I love how quick it is to swipe on throughout the day. It would be particularly lovely on holiday when you want your skin to look healthy and luminous without layering on makeup, but if you prefer matte finishes or you’re particularly oily, then you might find the dewiness a bit much.
Pros
- Beautiful luminous finish
- Great over bare skin or makeup
Cons
- I’m not sure that oily skin would love this
5. Gun Ana Multi Guard Stick
Gun Ana
Multi Guard Stick SPF 50
This feels like a modern multi-tasker rather than just another sunscreen. Alongside broad-spectrum SPF, this stick is packed with ingredients aimed at protecting skin from environmental aggressors, making it the one I’d keep in my handbag for commuting and busy days in London. It’s enriched with ceramides, vitamin E and botanical oils for a silky texture with surprising longevity. Plus, it’s infused with cucumber and mint, which gives it a really refreshing feel that’s perfect if, like me, you tend to get hot, bothered and slightly red in the face when trying to carry out everyday tasks in soaring temperatures.
Pros
- Lightweight, non-greasy formula
- Feels cooling on the skin
Cons
- More expensive price point
6. Caudalie Invisible High Protection Stick SPF 50
Caudalie
Invisible High Protection Stick SPF 50
I’m often out and about with two young children, which means an SPF stick that works for the entire family is a brilliant space-saver for me. This one from Caudalie is fragrance-free, water-resistant and suitable for use on children and babies—or anyone with very sensitive skin. I love that it glides on with absolutely no hint of white cast (something my children fuss profusely about), which means there is no mess or chalky residue either. It sinks in fast with very little blending required and simply gets the job done, ensuring that even the littlest ears and noses are covered. My only gripe? I’d actually love it to come in larger stick format for the body too.
Pros
- Genuinely invisible on the skin
- Feels gentle
7. Beauty of Joseon Matte Sun Stick
Beauty of Joseon
Matte Sun Stick Mugwort + Camilia SPF50
Beauty of Joseon’s Relief Sun SPFs have something of a cult following, but it’s the mattifying sunscreen stick that I rate most highly from its sun protection range. Unlike many SPF sticks, it leaves behind a genuinely soft, velvety finish that helps reduce shine rather than adding to it. I especially like using it over makeup because not only does it protect my skin from the sun, but it actually refreshes my complexion too—almost acting like a blotting product and sunscreen in one. So if your biggest barrier to reapplying sunscreen throughout the day is the fear of looking shiny, then this is the stick to have on hand.
Pros
- Keeps excess shine at bay
- Works well over makeup
Cons
- Dry skin won’t love this one
8. Dr.Jart+ Every Sun Day Ultra-Sheer Priming Sunscreen Stick SPF 50
Dr. Jart+
Every Sun Day Ultra-Sheer Priming Sunscreen Stick SPF 50
An SPF stick formulated with makeup wearers in mind, this sunscreen has a sheer formula that smooths over the skin much like a traditional primer. When applying it as the first step in your routine, it creates an almost balmy base for other products to adhere to, but when swiping over makeup, it adds an almost soft-focus finish with no disruption to the products beneath. I’ve been really impressed at how well it glides on without causing any pilling or patchiness, and the slippery feel really does make reapplication a breeze. If you are someone who wears a full face most days but wants to be diligent about sun protection, then I’d recommend this highly.
Pros
- Smooth, blurring finish
- Doesn’t disrupt appearance of makeup
Cons
- The texture is quite balmy and runs out quite fast
9. Soltan Active 8 Hour Protect Suncare Stick SPF50+
Soltan
Active 8 Hour Protect Suncare Stick SPF50+
I have used Soltan sunscreen since my childhood and remain incredibly loyal to the brand for high-quality sun protection at affordable price points. This stick feels robust (ideal for toting around in your bag all day) and offers dependable SPF 50+ protection that is water-resistant for 3 hours. The texture is a little firmer and less slippery than some of the more premium options on the list, but it applies evenly and feels durable. It’s the sort of stick I’d happily pack for weekend festivals or long beach days where I know that I’ll want a practical formula that can be passed around.
Pros
- Excellent value for money
- Long-lasting protection
Cons
- Texture doesn’t feel as luxurious as some more premium options
The Benefits of Using an SPF Stick
“An SPF stick can be a useful addition to a sun care routine, particularly for targeted application and topping up protection throughout the day. The main benefit is convenience: it is compact, easy to carry, and can be applied directly to areas such as the lips, nose, cheekbones, ears and around the eyes without needing to use your hands,” explains Consultant Dermatologist Dr Derrick Phillips.
However, Dr Phillips points out that SPF sticks shouldn’t be seen as a total replacement for your usual sunscreen. “Creams, lotions and fluids tend to be easier to apply evenly over larger areas, whereas sticks are particularly useful for reapplication and for areas that are often missed,” he explains. They should be viewed as an addition to your sun protection routine while you’re out and about, rather than a full alternative.
How to Use SPF Sticks
The best thing about SPF sticks is that they are pretty mess-free—just twist them up and swipe them onto your skin. “You should apply an SPF stick generously, using several passes over each area rather than a single swipe. Focus on commonly missed areas such as the lips, nose, cheekbones, ears and hairline,” explains Dr Phillips. The key to their efficacy is to re-apply them every couple of hours when you’re out and about. “When applied generously and evenly, SPF sticks can be very effective and are particularly useful for maintaining protection throughout the day,” says Dr Phillips.
How We Tested
From glow-giving formulas and sensitive skin-friendly options to hardworking sticks designed for sport and everyday life, I tested a range of SPF sticks and rated them on how easily they applied to skin, their longevity, the practicality of the packaging and the price point.
Why Trust Us
At Who What Wear UK, we know that beauty isn’t one-size-fits-all. Our editors have tested thousands of products over the years—spanning skincare, makeup, hair and nails—and work closely with trusted experts including dermatologists, makeup artists and leading industry insiders to ensure every guide is well-researched, inclusive and relevant to you.
We focus on formulas that deliver, whether they’re affordable favourites or luxury investments. Our product selection is based on tangible results, ingredient know-how and what we’d truly recommend to a friend.
