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Say goodbye to goopy SPF formulas.

Collage of sunscreen sticks we recommend on a beige background, including options from Shiseido and Colorescience

Byrdie / Kevin Liang

Carmen Castilla, M.D., a New York City-based board-certified dermatologist.

Were also proponents of the convenient protection that a sunscreen stick provides.

We also considered its water resistance and how it felt on the skin.

EltaMD UV Stick Broad-Spectrum SPF 50+

PHOTO: Amazon

After consulting with a board-certified dermatologist, we landed on this selection of top-rated sunscreen sticks.

Also worth noting: Since it dries matte, it may not hydrate enough for dry skin types.

Shiseidos Clear Sunscreen Stick does just that; it provides the face with a layer of near-invisible coverage.

Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry Touch SPF 50 Mineral Sunscreen Stick

PHOTO: Amazon

Best for Acne-Prone Skin

Supergoop!

Dr. Castilla counts Cetaphils Sheer Mineral Sunscreen Stick as a top choice for sun protection.

She explains that the product is at a great price point and works well for acne-prone skin.

Shiseido UV Clear Stick Protector SPF 50

PHOTO: Sephora

The balms are also formulated with skin-enhancing ingredients such as hydratingsqualeneand antioxidant-richjojobafor a balanced and nourished complexion.

We do wish it were water-resistant though.

The chemical formula applies completely clear and is sweat and water-resistant for up to 80 minutes.

Supergoop! Glow Stick Sunscreen SPF 50

PHOTO: Supergoop

The formula is also certified cruelty-free and vegan.

If you frequently experience that, we recommend this travel-friendly stick from CeraVe.

This zinc oxide formula suits the most delicate areas on your face.

Cetaphil Sheer Mineral Sunscreen Stick

PHOTO: Amazon

Consider this compact and ultraconvenient stick from Blue Lizard.

It absorbs quickly without leaving behind a sticky or greasy residue and is water-resistant for up to 80 minutes.

Its the perfect size for small running belts, leggings with pockets, and gym bags alike.

ColoreScience Sunforgettable Total Protection Color Balm SPF 50

PHOTO: Amazon

While the brand says the formula blends in clear, we did still experience a very minimal white cast.

It also leaves behind a slightly waxy finish which may not be appealing for oily skin types.

A sunscreen stick should be the last step in your skincare routine.

Coola Refreshing Water Hydration Stick Organic Face Sunscreen SPF 50

PHOTO: Ulta

She’s been a writer at Byrdie since 2022.

Sun Bum Original SPF 30 Sunscreen Face Stick

PHOTO: Amazon

Aveeno Protect + Soothe Mineral Sunscreen Stick for Sensitive Skin

PHOTO: Amazon

Beauty of Joseon Matte Sun Stick

PHOTO: Beauty of Joseon

CeraVe Mineral Sunscreen Stick SPF 50

PHOTO: Amazon

BLUE LIZARD Sensitive Mineral Sunscreen Stick with Zinc Oxide, SPF 50+

PHOTO: Amazon

Skinbetter Science Sunbetter SHEER SPF 56 Sunscreen Stick

PHOTO: Skinbetter Science

Badger Face Sunscreen Stick SPF 35

PHOTO: Amazon