FAQ
What are the disadvantages of stick sunscreen?
Sunscreen sticks are very convenient and accurate, but they have their limitations. This means it doesn’t really work as a sunscreen for your body. “The flip side of the coin is that it’s difficult to cover a large body surface area,” Dr. Levitt says. “Sticks can’t do the heavy lifting; they need to be supplemented with creams and lotions that can cover a larger surface area.”
That said, there are clear benefits to your skin care routine. “Sunscreen sticks provide a convenient and mess-free way to apply sunscreen and are perfect for target areas such as the face, ears, and shoulders,” explains Dr. Badresia Bansal. “The solid shape means there’s no risk of spillage, and it’s portable and easy to use” – a big advantage for people who are always on the go, whether it’s traveling or reapplying.
Are sunscreen sticks effective?
According to Dr. Fass, broad-spectrum solid stick formulations are just as effective as the best liquid sunscreens. However, like any sunscreen, you will need to reapply the correct amount and often to get adequate broad-spectrum protection. (More on this later.)
Another benefit of sunscreen sticks is that they are great for applying SPF to smaller, more sensitive areas, such as the eyelids. Dr. Mona Gohara, a board-certified dermatologist in Hamden, Conn., previously explained, “Sunscreen is essential because the skin[around the eyes]is more fragile and thinner, making it more susceptible to fine lines and photoaging,” which is why she recommends using a sunscreen stick. Do you have a fresh, colorful tattoo that you’d like to save? Sunscreen sticks are also great for this.
How much sunscreen should I apply?
That’s because you never know how much sunscreen stick you’re using up, which is the equivalent of two fingers if you’re using it on your face. Dr. Fass says, “Generally speaking, the more the better, but I tell my patients to apply four strokes to each application area to make sure they’re getting enough.” She also recommends applying sunscreen to every nook and cranny. Dr. Fass also recommends applying a sunscreen stick to dry skin. For pre-applied skin care, make sure it is completely dry. This allows the prescription to “stick”.
And don’t forget: Reapplying is essential to maintain UV protection throughout the day. “Reapply at least every two hours, but if you sweat or get wet, reapply more often,” Dr. Roberta Del Campo, a Miami-based board-certified dermatologist, previously told Allure.
meet an expert
Sonia Badresia Bansal, MD, a board-certified dermatologist and RealSelf specialist based in Danville, CA Roberta Del Campo, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Miami Fatima Firth, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Camden, MN Mona Gohara, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Hamden, CT Noah Levitt, MD, PhD, a Connecticut Board of Dermatology board-certified dermatologist based in Fairfield, Hamden, and Norwalk, CT
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When Allure tests a product, our editors look at it from every angle to best serve you. We check ingredients, scrutinize brand claims and, when appropriate, research peer-reviewed scientific and medical studies. In addition to testing every product included in each review, we rely on experts in fields such as dermatology, cosmetic chemistry, and medicine to help vet ingredients and formulations.
For our list of the best sunscreen sticks, we considered each product’s performance across five key categories: product ingredients and effectiveness, packaging, fragrance, texture, and product experience. All products have been determined to be outstanding in each category by our editorial team of in-house writers, editors, and contributors, with special consideration by board-certified dermatologists. For more information about our reporting and testing process, please visit our complete review process and methodology page.
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