For quick, easy, makeup-proof sun protection, look no further than our beauty director’s favourite sunscreen sticks.
When the sun’s out but you’re on-the-go, reapplying SPF can feel like a chore, especially when you are trying to beat sunburn while not disrupting your makeup. Equally, when you are travelling light, perhaps with only a carry-on, it can often seem like you’re forced to compromise on your favourite sunscreen to save on space. If any of this rings true, you’re going to love beauty’s latest summer trend: the SPF stick.
Quick, invisible, mess-free – and surprisingly affordable, our beauty director has tested countless options and narrowed it down to the very best ones, most of which will leave you change from a £20 note.
From the sport-proof solution that’s great for active types to clutch bag-friendly formulas, these seven are our favourites…
This clever little stick glides across the contours of your face like a dream – offering a transparent finish with no white cast, no greasy mess, just smooth, invisible sun protection that is easy to reapply. With factor 50 level protection, it's also packed with skin-loving moisturisers like sunflower oil and bisabolol, and doubles as a glow-giving primer under makeup, keeping you looking chic in the heat.
Worried that if you can't see sunscreen on your skin, it's not giving you adaquate protection? Worry not! When Dr Jart+ put their sunscreen to the test on real women under the light of a UV camera you could see the UV-blocking credentials of this easy-to-use formula laid bare. That means you get effective SPF 30 coverage, with hydrating hyaluronic acid and a matte finish, so you don't have to struggle with a shiny, greasy finish. You can even try it over makeup without spoiling it.
Haven't heard about Korean Beauty brand Beauty of Joseon yet? You need to know. The brand is helping banish old sunscreen stereotypes, with its range of silky smooth SPF formulas that are kind to your complexion. To achieve that enviable 'glass skin' finish without breaking the bank, try this stick first. It provides SPF 50+ as well as an array of skin-soothing actives such as mugwort and green tea extract, which is exactly what you need to tackle pollution's effect on your skin too.
If you always struggle to fit your toiletries into your carry-on only cosmetic case, this small-yet-mighty sunscreen stick is the sunscreen you need. Pocket-sized – so you can take it from beach to city and back again – it offers high protection SPF 50+ in a single swipe without any heavy feeling. Best of all, it's less than £9. Ultimately, the formula is the perfect example of why Garnier is a sunscreen brand you and your family can always trust.
Finding a sunscreen that lasts, especially if you love sports like running or swimming, can be difficult – particularly as sweat and heat can breakdown SPF more quickly. You've found it with Heliocare's longwear formula. Lightweight yet resilient, it takes the stress out of protecting against sunburn and sun damage – and is super simple to reapply, including on easy-to-miss areas like your ears, nose and hairline.
Hello Sunday makes wearing SPF actually enjoyable – as well as stress-free. I particularly like this stick because it feels like a nourishing balm on your skin due to the addition of hydrating hylauronic acid and jojoba oil, without feeling hot or heavy to wear unlike some formulas. The broad shape makes it super quick to apply and ideal for on-the-go use, with an invisible feel. Plus, the floral scent means you'll enjoy wearing it everyday, not just on the beach.
Perfect for top-ups, even over makeup, the new Supergoop! stick glides seamlessly and quickly across your face, collarbones and hands, and has a hydrating yet matte finish on your skin thanks to a combination of antioxidant-rich ingredients with oil-absorbing silica powders. It is a little more pricey than the others on this list, but it could just be worth it for the tried-and-approved 'unseen' claim – it's the furthest thing from the greasy or drying approach of traditional SPFs. You'll almost forget you're wearing it!
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Lead image: Elf
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