Skincare

Sun sticks explained: Application tips & top products

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SkinTalks - April 24, 2026

Introduction

What is a sun stick?

How does sunscreen work?

The best sunscreen sticks

Tips for applying sun protection stick

FAQs

Sun sticks are one of the easiest ways to keep your skin protected throughout the day. Compact, mess-free, and designed to work over makeup, they take the hassle out of reapplying SPF, whether you're commuting, at your desk, or out in the sun

 

In this guide, we’ll explain how they work, what ingredients to look out for, and the best options to try. We’ll focus on Korean products that have gained global popularity for their silky, non-greasy finishes and skincare-first ingredients.

What is a sun stick?

A sun stick, also known as a sun protection stick, is a solid form of sunscreen that comes packaged in a compact, twist-up tube. Just imagine the way stick deodorant and lip balm work.

 

Instead of dispensing a liquid or cream, sun sticks cover the skin with SPF through a smooth, balm-like formula. This allows for more precise application, making it easier to cover areas that are often missed, such as the nose, ears, and around the eyes. Most modern formulas are lightweight and designed to sit comfortably on the skin, so they can be layered without feeling heavy or greasy.

How does sunscreen work?

Sun sticks work in the same way as traditional sunscreens. They protect your skin by shielding it from harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation. Most formulas offer broad-spectrum protection, meaning they defend against both UVA rays (which contribute to premature aging and skin damage) and UVB rays (which cause sunburn).

 

Depending on the formulation, sun sticks use either chemical filters that absorb UV rays or mineral sunscreen ingredients like zinc oxide or titanium dioxide that sit on the skin’s surface and reflect UV rays away.

The best sunscreen sticks

If you are looking for a sunscreen that is easy to reapply and feels good on your skin, here are our favorites. These are all Korean sunscreen formulas that layer easily on the go while deeply nourishing the skin.

Abib Quick Sunstick Protection Bar SPF50+ PA++++

Abib Quick Sunstick Protection Bar is a great choice if you’re active or spend a lot of time outdoors. Its curved shape makes it quick to apply, helping you to cover larger areas in fewer swipes; its water and sweat-resistant formula means it holds up well during long days outside or workouts.

 

The bar also contains oil-control powder, giving it a smooth, semi-matte finish that doesn’t feel sticky on the skin. You’ll also benefit from acacia peptide and ceramide to support and reinforce the skin barrier.

Quick Sunstick Protection Bar SPF50+ PA++++

Quick Sunstick Protection Bar SPF50+ PA++++

€15.43
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Matte sun stick : Mugwort+Camelia SPF50 PA++++

Matte sun stick : Mugwort+Camelia SPF50 PA++++

€14.26
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Beauty of Joseon Matte Sun Stick: Mugwort+Camelia SPF50+ PA++++

If you have oily or combination skin, Beauty of Joseon Matte Sun Stick is one of the best options of sun sticks to consider. The formula uses silica powder to absorb excess oil, leaving a soft matte finish that helps control shine throughout the day. It’s also infused with mugwort and green tea, which calms irritation and balances the skin.

 

Unlike heavier sunscreens, it feels almost weightless and doesn’t leave a white cast. This is an ideal option for layering over makeup.
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SKIN1004 Madagascar Centella Hyalu-Cica Silky-fit Sun Stick SPF50+ PA++++

Soothing and barrier-supporting, SKIN1004 Madagascar Centella Sun Stick is designed with sensitive and dehydrated skin in mind. Centella asiatica is the star, helping to calm irritation, while hyaluronic acid gives the formula a smooth, almost serum-like glide.

 

SKIN1004 Madagascar Centella Sun Stick gives a smooth, skin-like finish that feels light and comfortable throughout the day. It’s a great choice if sunscreens usually feel tight or irritating on your skin, with a formula that prioritizes comfort as much as protection.

Madagascar Centella Hyalu-Cica Silky-fit Sun Stick SPF50+ PA++++

Madagascar Centella Hyalu-Cica Silky-fit Sun Stick SPF50+ PA++++

€10.74
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Vegan Peptide Bakuchiol Sun Stick SPF50+ PA++++

Vegan Peptide Bakuchiol Sun Stick SPF50+ PA++++

€16.70
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Mary&May Vegan Peptide Bakuchiol Sun Stick SPF50+ PA++++

Mary&May Vegan Peptide Bakuchiol Sun Stick takes a slightly different approach to sun protection by blending SPF with anti-aging skincare ingredients. Formulated with bakuchiol (a gentler alternative to retinol) and peptides, it supports skin elasticity while protecting against UV damage.

 

The texture is lightweight but has a subtly nourishing feel, making it a good option for drier skin types. Porous powder ensures your skin stays smooth and dry, even with frequent reapplications.
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Tips for applying sun protection stick

Apply your sun stick in even, overlapping strokes rather than dabbing, as this helps build a uniform layer of protection. Pay special attention to the nose, cheekbones, and forehead, and don’t forget easy-to-miss areas like around the hairline and ears.

 

One great way to use them is as a top-up tool, swiping on over your morning sunscreen throughout the day to maintain coverage without disrupting your makeup or routine.

 

If you’re applying over makeup, use light pressure and glide rather than drag. Short, controlled swipes help avoid disrupting your base, especially with matte formulas.

FAQs

Do sunscreen sticks really work?

Yes, SPF sticks for the face do work, but only when they’re applied properly. Like any sunscreen, its effectiveness depends on how much product you use and how evenly you apply it. Because the formula is solid, it’s easy to under-apply, so you’ll need multiple passes over each area to build up enough protection.

Is a sun stick better than sunscreen?

A sun stick isn’t necessarily better than traditional sunscreen. It just serves a different purpose. Liquid or cream sunscreens can often be the best option for your initial, full-face application, as they’re easier to apply evenly in sufficient amounts.

 

An SPF stick for the face, on the other hand, stands out for its convenience. It makes reapplication quick, mess-free, and practical, especially when you’re out, active, or wearing makeup.

 

The best approach is to use both: a traditional sunscreen as your base and an SPF stick to keep your protection topped up throughout the day.

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