The 9 Best Sunscreen Sticks for All-Day Protection
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Welcome to Cosmo's first-ever SPF week, a space dedicated to two very important things: 1. reminding you that sunscreen is the most essential step in any skincare routine and 2. sharing the best sunscreen recs to shop right now, according to our team of very picky beauty editors.
If there's one thing you need to know in this world, it's that face sunscreen is the most important part of your skincare routine (ya know, if you want to prevent skin cancer and fine lines). But reapplying midday can be a hassle, especially if you're out and about or have a face of makeup on. My secret weapon? Sunscreen sticks: An efficient, compact, and portable option that makes sun protection so damn easy. Just glide the stick across your face, (yes you can use them atop your moisturizers with SPF and foundations with sunscreen) and boom, you're extra protected.
Ahead, we chatted with top dermatologists and skincare experts about how sunscreen sticks work, their benefits and disadvantages, and how to choose the best one for you. Team Cosmo also rounded up the best sunscreen sticks below, according to years of testing, sweating, and swimming in the sun.
Our top picks for sunscreen sticks in 2025:
Keep scrolling for all of the best sunscreen sticks of 2025. Then, read expert-led tips on applying your stick sunscreen for the best coverage and protection.
Pros
- One of the most beloved sunscreen brands by dermatologists
- Isn't greasy or heavy on my skin
Cons
- Can be slightly tough to roll on
Nearly every derm I speak with sings the praises of EltaMD's sunscreens—not to mention the brand has a ton of awards (most recently a Cosmo 2024 Acne Award) for their excellent formulas. Board-certified dermatologist Ellen Marmur describes this UV stick as one of her go-tos. “It has a clean, all-mineral formula, non-greasy texture, and can be used everywhere,” she says. It’s also TSA-friendly, so you can get through security without worrying about having to throw it away and getting burned on your beach trip. Mineral sunscreens often get a bad rep due to the white cast they leave behind (a result of the zinc oxide in the formula), and this one does go on slightly white. But not to worry—it's nothing a little rubbing in won’t fix.
- Sunscreen Type: Mineral
- Protection Level: SPF 50
- Key ingredients: Vitamin E
One Cosmo editor says: "I love a stick SPF when I need something I can keep re-applying for those extra sunny days, and EltaMD is that girl. I love the formula for its hydrating properties and it's so easy to swipe on my areas that are extra prone to burning (like my nose and shoulders) throughout the day. You will always find this in my beach bag, and I've put it through a lot (as pictured below)."—Jasmine Hyman, assistant beauty editor
It was my go-to sunscreen for the UV 10 sun in Cabo.
Pros
- Water resistant and sweatproof
- Great for all skin tones
Cons
- Has a bit of a strong sunscreen smell
If the thought of dragging a chalky sunscreen stick over your dry skin makes you shiver, allow us to introduce you to this pick from Shiseido. It goes on clear and is ultra-moisturizing thanks to ingredients like vitamin E and castor oil. And the invisible finish means you can swipe it on under or over makeup without messing anything up. Plus, Dr. Marmur and acne specialist and nurse practitioner Jodi LoGerfo both swear by it. “I love it because it’s transportable, moisturizing, convenient, and easy to use,” says Dr. LoGerfo.
- Sunscreen type: Chemical
- Protection level: SPF 50
- Key ingredients: Jojoba extract, vitamin E
One Cosmo editor says: As someone who loves the sun but also has super dry skin that I want to be protected at all times, I love this stick from Shiseido. It doesn't make me feel oily or greasy, and it's great for swiping over my dry patches, shoulders, or anywhere else that needs some extra love when I'm in the sun."—JH
It's my favorite sunscreen stick, I basically have one in every beach bag I own.
Pros
- SPF 60 is the highest on this list
- Non-sticky
- Great for traveling
Cons
- Not the most hydrating formula, so layer it with your fave moisturizer
This drugstore sunscreen stick from Neutrogena is not only one of my favorites, but loved by derms, too. "It provides broad-spectrum protection—UVA and UVB—and spreads easily on the skin in my experience," says Dr. LoGerfo. It goes on clear and is loaded with vitamin C and vitamin E for brightening and soothing benefits.
- Sunscreen type: Chemical
- Protection level: 60
- Key ingredients: Vitamin C, vitamin E
One Cosmo editor says: "If you also carry teeny-tiny bags, you'll love how adorably tiny this SPF stick is. I could legit just put it in my pocket. Of course, I also love the formula--it glides on easily and clear." —Beth Gillette, beauty editor
Look at that clear finish.
Pros
- Has a seal from the National Eczema Association
- Water-resistant
Cons
- Since it's made for kids, it takes a bit of extra swiping to fully cover your face
Sensitive-skin bbs, rise: If every sunscreen leaves your face burning, itching, and irritated, try this mineral sunscreen stick. It’s actually formulated specifically for sensitive skin and children, so it uses super gentle and hypoallergenic ingredients, like zinc oxide, beeswax, and vitamin E. And if you're also a sensitive-skin queen who burns easily (relatable), this itsy-bitsy stick is easy to stash in your bag for on-the-go touch-ups.
- Sunscreen type: Mineral
- Protection level: 50
- Key ingredients: Vitamin E
One Cosmo editor says: "I first started using this sunscreen on my 14-month-old son, but now I'm kinda obsessed with using it on myself too. It's great for touch-ups on my nose and cheekbones if I'm out in the sun for a long time. And it's convenient for protecting my shoulders without getting SPF all over my shirt straps too." —Lauren Balsamo, beauty director
If it's good enough for beauty director Lauren Balsamo and her baby, then it's good enough for you, promise.
Pros
- Formula is invisible on the skin
- Non-greasy and non-tacky
Cons
- Might not be the best option for acne-prone skin
Live Tinted is all about making products for tan to deep skin tones, so trust me when I say this sunscreen stick goes on completely clear—no white cast in sight. The stick hydrates the skin, leaving behind a dewy finish that works with your makeup rather than against it. For those who spend a lot of time outside or sweat easily, it’s also water and sweat-resistant for up to 80 minutes.
- Sunscreen type: Chemical
- Protection level: SPF 50
- Key ingredients: Vitamin E
One Cosmo editor says: "Sunscreen on the go is a must! This non-sticky formulation goes on clear and leaves skin super hydrated and protected. It's also a genius way of reapplying SPF throughout the day over your makeup—and not messing it up."—Julee Wilson, beauty editor-at-large
When we say invisible finish, we mean an invisible finish.
Pros
- Soothes and hydrates the skin while protecting it
- Protects against free radicals and blue light, too
- Made organic, plant-based ingredients
Cons
- Packaging may get a bit messy
This sunscreen stick from Coola glides on effortlessly and is a solid moisturizer, thanks to hydration heroes like aloe and hyaluronic acid. When you're at the beach, out on a boat, or just living your best summer life, the last thing you want is a thick, goopy sunscreen. Luckily, this one feels featherlight, keeps your skin quenched, and leaves you with a clear (and never greasy) glow.
- Sunscreen type: Chemical
- Protection level: SPF 50
- Key ingredients: Hyaluronic acid, aloe, coconut water
One Cosmo editor says: "Of every sunscreen stick I've tried, this one is the clearest. The gel texture glides so easily across my skin and leaves behind a serum-like feel that's so lightweight."—BG
Beauty editor Beth Gillette went to Aruba and used the Coola stick v liberally.
Pros
- Fruit extracts and vitamin E soothe the skin
- Layers well with makeup
- Non-comedogenic
Cons
- Packaging gets a bit slippery
This e.l.f. formula is great for acne-prone peeps who want to use a sunscreen stick. It's hard to find an SPF stick that's completely acne-safe—since shea butter and beeswax can clog pores and are found in many solid formulas—but this one is fully non-comedogenic, yay! Plus, it’s under $15, so you can stash one in every bag without breaking the bank.
- Sunscreen type: Chemical
- Protection level: SPF 50
- Key ingredients: Vitamin E, watermelon extract
One Cosmo editor says: "I tested this lil guy out while spring skiing, where the sun is surprisingly strong and quite blinding. This stick kept my skin glowy, and more importantly, protected. I wore it with my go-to skin tint, blush, and concealer and it didn't budge. Also, I didn't burn after more than five hours on the bright slopes, so it will be coming in my beach bag all summer long."—JH
Protection on the slopes or in the sand!
Pros
- Leaves your face super dewy and hydrated
- Non-greasy feel
Cons
- Not the most water resistant option
If you're into that wet, glossy skin vibe, you're going to stan this sunscreen stick from Kopari. It leaves behind a radiant sheen without making your face look greasy. The mineral formula packs 23.8 percent zinc oxide but glides on totally clear—making it perfect for all skin tones. Plus, it’s infused with shea butter to moisturize and amp up the dew, while jojoba helps smooth and soften skin.
- Sunscreen type: Mineral
- Sun protection: SPF 50
- Key ingredients: Vitamin E, malic acid
One Cosmo editor says: "So many sticks leave a white cast, is hard to blend, or doesn't glide very well. Kopari managed to fix all that, though. I forgot to pack sunscreen on a boat in Turks and Caicos last month (rookie mistake!!) except this stick, so I put it allllll over my shoulders and chest. It gives me a slight glow but doesn't make me shiny and blends out effortlessly."—BG
I mean, I meant it when I said it was the best for a glow.
Pros
- Goes on completely clear with no whitecast
- Also protects against blue light
Cons
- Can melt if left outside in v hot temperatures
If you’re someone who loves an outdoor workout or spends time sweating away in the sun, this water-resistant option is a top pick. Aesthetician Elizabeth Hand praises this sunscreen stick for containing 13 percent zinc oxide and leaving zero white cast behind. “Super smooth and easy to use, this formula doesn’t feel greasy whatsoever," says Hand, adding "this stick is great for all skin tones seeking maximum coverage with a sheer application."
- Sunscreen type: Mineral
- Protection level: SPF 50
- Key ingredients:
One Cosmo editor says: "I love that the water resistance and SPF 50 keep me protected all day long no matter the activity level. The formula goes on clear, plus it's is beloved by derms and aestheticians alike."—Iman Balagam, contributing beauty writer
Are sunscreen sticks any good?
Yes, sunscreen sticks *are* good and effective—not just a gimmick. They’re mess-free, making them great for those areas you constantly want to reapply, such as your ears, nose, eyes, and anywhere on your body. Lightweight and easy to carry around, they’re also handy for quick touch-ups. “I recommend them over traditional sunscreen, especially for reapplying every two hours,” says Dr. Marmur.
They’re also great for children as they’re essentially big crayons for your skin (which is also ideal for people like me who really are just children in adult bodies).
What are the disadvantages of sunscreen sticks?
The biggest disadvantages of sunscreen sticks are that they can be cumbersome to apply across large areas, like your legs or back. Also, it can be more difficult to spread a sunscreen stick evenly on the skin. “You may also need to swipe it a few times to achieve a smooth application on the skin’s surface for suitable protection,” says Dr. LoGerfo. The American Academy of Dermatology recommends applying a sunscreen stick four times over the same area to ensure correct and even application.
How to choose the best sunscreen stick for you:
Determine your go-to type
Are you a chemical sunscreen person, or more into mineral options? Lemme explain: Chemical sunscreen uses chemical-based filters (like avobenzone, oxybenzone, or homosalate) to absorb the sun's rays, convert them into heat, and then release them from your skin. Mineral, however, use filters (like zinc oxide or titanium dioxide) that essentially create a physical shield between your skin and the sun. This is why mineral sunscreens tend to be thicker and have a white cast.
Is one better than the other? Not exactly. Dermatologists often recommend mineral filters for those with sensitive or acne-prone skin, as chemical sunscreens can be a bit irritating. But if you have a deep skin tone, you might not be able to use a mineral sunscreen due to the intense white cast. In that case, opt for clear, chemical sunscreen stick formulas.
And as always, the best sunscreen type is the sunscreen you're gonna use every day. But most important of all: You should opt for a product with at least SPF 30 or higher (FWIW, every single stick on this list is above SPF 30!).
Assess your skin's needs
As with all skincare products, make sure you’re shopping for your skin type. With so many different finishes and ingredients out there, you want to find options that work with your skin rather than against it. If you've got ultra-dry skin, choose a formula with moisturizing ingredients like hyaluronic acid or squalane. Meanwhile, those with oily skin should opt for lightweight sunscreen sticks that aren't filled with oils and butters that could make you look greasy.
Jasmine Hyman is the Assistant Beauty Editor at Cosmopolitan, where she writes about the latest beauty trends and must-have products. Her most prized beauty possessions are a meticulous skincare routine and salon blowouts. You’ll also likely find her in bed reading a good book or endlessly scrolling TikTok (spoiler: it’s usually the latter) while listening to Harry Styles’ entire discography on repeat. Follow her on Insta to be inundated with pictures of her meals.
Iman Balagam is a freelance writer who has been in the beauty industry for nearly five years. She has written for and contributed to top women’s magazines and digital brands such as Harper's BAZAAR, Allure, Byrdie, Elle and more. She will try *nearly* anything and spends a lot of time looking for new ways to store her beauty products in a small New York apartment.
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