7 Best Sunscreen Sticks To Apply SPF On The Go

Last Updated on March 20, 2025

Sunscreen sticks are the biggest rage among skincare enthusiasts these days and for some right reasons too. We all know reapplying sunscreen every 2-3 hours is important as its protection fades over time.

But we seldom follow this guideline as reapplying sunscreen without disturbing the makeup is a tricky and messy process. Even on days when you go makeup-free, blending a sunscreen lotion on your face in public view is guaranteed to get you more than a few stares. This is where sunscreen sticks come in super handy. 

What Is A Sunscreen Stick?

A sunscreen stick is a type of sunscreen that comes in a solid, stick-like form, just like your chapstick. It is can be swiped directly across your skin which makes it a quick and easy way to apply sunscreen without the mess or fuss of traditional SPF lotions or sprays. 

Sunscreen sticks are often water-resistant and compact in size, which made them a popular choice for outdoor activities like hiking, swimming, and surfing. They can best used for touch-ups throughout the day without disturbing your makeup.

As convenient as these sunscreen sticks are to use, remember, that they are only suitable for reapplication as they don’t provide enough protection on their own. You will need over a dozen swipes to get adequate protection. And even then, you are likely to miss out on some spots like the side of your nose or eye contour area. 

So a a traditional sunscreen lotion in your morning skincare routine and follow up with a sunscreen stick later in the day for a quick touchup.

Also Read: Best Hydrating Susncreens For Dry Skin in India

Best Sunscreen Sticks in India 

1. Thank You Farmer Sun Project Silky Calming Sun Stick

Korean sunscreen sticks are well-known for being lightweight and this particular sunscreen stick from Thank You Farmer is the most popular option in India right now. It feels non-greasy, leaves no white cast and has SPF 50 PA++++ protection.

It also has skin-loving ingredients like Centella Asiatica and calamine to soothe your skin and is also water and sweat-resistant. Can’t ask for more!

2. Isntree Hyaluronic Acid Airy Sun Stick

This is another popular Korean sunscreen stick that will soon become your holy grail. It is lightweight and easy to use as it glides smoothly on the skin.

There is no white cast, SPF50+ PA++++ rating and the finish is satin-like which feels comfortable on most skin types. Plus, its unique teardrop shape helps reach even the difficult areas of your face quite easily. 

3. Minimalist Sunscreen Stick

Dry-skinned folk will like this sun stick thanks to its moisturizing formula and dewy finish. It slides easily over makeup, leaves no white cast and has an SPF 50 PA++++ rating. 

It is infused with antioxidants like Vitamin E and has new-age photostable UV filters for better sun protection.

Also Read: Best Mineral Sunscreen In India

4. Beauty Of Joseon Matte Sun Stick

Infused with sebum-control silica powder, this matte formula ensures your skin stays non-greasy, and your makeup doesn’t get clumpy even after reapplying the stick several times throughout the day. And with soothing ingredients like mugwort and camellia extracts, this SPF 50 PA++++ sunscreen stick is the perfect choice for oily-skinned people.

5. Dot And Key Strawberry Dew Sunscreen Stick

This non-comedogenic sun stick from Dot and Key leaves zero white cast and has a non-greasy, dewy finish. It has an SPF 50 PA+++ rating and provides broad-spectrum sun protection against UVA/UVB rays.

Inudsed with ingredients like hyaluronic acid and ceramides, the sunscreen stick will also help strengthen your skin barrier and protect from environmental aggressors. Plus, the formula is cruelty-free, fragrance-free and contains no parabens, mineral oil, alcohol and essential oil making it suitable even for all skin types.

6. The Derma Co. Hyaluronic Sun Stick

The Derma Co. sun stick is a popular choice since it is non-greasy and easy to use. It provides SPF 60 PA++++ protection and has no visible white cast on the skin making it suitable for almost all skin types and tones.

This sun stick has ingredients like hyaluronic acid and ceramides and a lightweight matte finish, making it a good choice for oily-skinned folks as well.

7. Happier Sun-Days Dewy Sunscreen Stick

Regardless of your skin type, this sun stick is a suitable option for daily use, as it protects your skin without clogging pores or leaving any residual white cast. Formulated to provide up to 8 hours of sun protection, the sunscreen is fortified with a blend of superfoods like Blueberry Extracts, Vitamin E, and Licorice Extract.

The lightweight and non-greasy sunscreen stick has an SPF 50 PA+++ rating and its moisturizing formula will blend effortlessly in your skin for an all-day glow!

Also Read: Best Sunscreens For Oily Skin in India

How to Use Sunscreen Sticks

Sunscreen sticks are best suitable for reapplying SPF throughout the day, especially after swimming, or other physical activities that cause sweating. Here’s the best way to use sunscreen for maximum protection.

• Twist up the tube to roll out the stick and glide it across the face and neck multiple times.  It can be used over makeup as well.
• Swipe it multiple times over an area to get proper protection.
• If needed, use your fingers to blend the product into your skin to help it get absorbed quickly.
• Clean the surface of the sunscreen stick with a tissue to remove any dirt or makeup that may have transferred from your skin.
• Close the cap and carry it around in your bag for touchups.
• Always, conduct a patch test on your inner arms to check for any allergic reactions or sensitivity. If any irritation across, discontinue the product immediately.

* This post contains affiliate links. If you choose to purchase using the link, I will earn a small amount (at no extra cost to you!) The amount helps me maintain website costs and bring more and better content to you.

Cover Image Credit: Minimalist