By now, all of us will agree that SPF, standing for Sun Protection Factor, is a non-negotiable in our beauty routines. We don't leave the house without it. In this day and age, there's really no excuse for not applying sunscreen. We're more informed than ever about the damage the sun can wreak on our skin and we have some incredible formulations across all price ranges in our arsenal too. (If you need a RUSSH-approved list of the best sunscreens, here it is.) But there is one thing that is overlooked in the handbook of sunscreen application – the two hour reapplication rule.
Most of the time this is because the idea of slathering another layer of liquid sunscreen over makeup feels somehow wrong. Especially when you've spent an hour blending and perfecting your beat. The rest of the time this can be chalked up to getting lost in the day's distractions. However, sunscreen sticks are here to change that.
Although not a new development, (most sunscreen sticks have been around for a few years now), they're having a moment on TikTok where they're favoured in K beauty circles. The real talking point about sunscreens sticks is in how practical they are. Compact enough to slip into a handbag, the stick formula cancels out the messy reapplication process, including the dreaded white cast and sticky residues. You can swipe them over bare skin or makeup, and if you're worried about bacteria just ensure you wipe the product with an alcohol wipe after use.
@glowwithava part 2 requests? i have more 😬 #sunstick #honestreview #sunsticks #beautytipswithava #skincarereview #skincaretips #amazonbeauty #koreansunscreen #kbeauty ♬ Earned It (Fifty Shades Of Grey) - The Weeknd
While the sunscreen stick you use will depend on your skin type and unique needs, below we're bringing you a list of the best loved brands on TikTok. From Shiseido to Beauty of Joseon.
1. SHISEIDO Sunscreen Stick SPF50+
Beauty influencers on TikTok have crowned Shiseido's formula as a standout in the realm of sunscreen sticks. The Japanese beauty brand's sunscreen stick glides on clear, with a lightweight, invisible finish. It's water resistant for up to 80 minutes which makes it a good option for when you're exercising or participating in sport. It's SPF 50+ formula is also designed for all skin types and can be worn over and under makeup. Finally, it's dermatologist-tested and non-comedogenic, making it an ideal option for sensitive skin types.
2. BEAUTY OF JOSEON Matte Sun Stick
Beloved Korean beauty brand, Beauty of Joseon is responsible for another formula gaining traction on TikTok. This time however, the SPF 50+ Matte Sun Stick was designed with oily skin types in mind as its opaque formula provides a matte and smooth finish without clumping or leaving any greasy residues. It's also vegan and free from fragrance or any essential oils to minimise the risk of irritation.
3. ABIB Quick Sunstick Protection Bar
The Abib Quick Sunstick has earned a glowing reputation thanks to its sleek packaging, practical crescent moon shape which follows the contours of the face, and natural formula comprising of calming ingredients like aloe vera leaf juice, cucumber fruit and green tea extracts. This option applies clear and leaves a glowy sheen.
4. TOCOBO Cotton Soft Sun Stick
If you're after a sunscreen stick at an affordable price that does what it says on the tin, try the Cotton Soft Sun Stick from Korean vegan beauty brand Tocobo. It has a blue SPF 50+ formula with a fun twisty bottom. If you have sensitive skin you may want to approach with caution as it contains fragrance.
5. ISNTREE Hyaluronic Acid Airy Sun Stick
A unanimous winner on TikTok, Isntree's chemical version has garnered a cult following. People cite its teardrop shape when discussing why they're fans as it applies comfortably on the contours of the face and neck. It applies seamlessly on top of makeup without smudging and the product contains hyaluronic acid and aloe vera which helps hydrate the skin.
6. HUNTER LAB SPF 50+ Facial Sunscreen
A mineral sunscreen created in our own backyard, Melbourne beauty label Hunter Lab has entered the sunscreen stick chat with its own SPF 50+ product. It's reef safe and is suitable for medium to dry skin, with a satin finish.
