mybest
Bath & bodyHelping You Find the Best
mybest
Bath & bodyHelping You Find the Best
  • 10 Best Sunscreen Sticks UK 2024 | Piz Buin, La-Roche Posay and More 1
  • 10 Best Sunscreen Sticks UK 2024 | Piz Buin, La-Roche Posay and More 2
  • 10 Best Sunscreen Sticks UK 2024 | Piz Buin, La-Roche Posay and More 3
  • 10 Best Sunscreen Sticks UK 2024 | Piz Buin, La-Roche Posay and More 4
  • 10 Best Sunscreen Sticks UK 2024 | Piz Buin, La-Roche Posay and More 5

10 Best Sunscreen Sticks UK 2024 | Piz Buin, La-Roche Posay and More

Sunscreen is an essential purchase whether you're a regular sunbather or someone who prefers to stay indoors on a hot summer's day. It protects your skin from harmful UV rays and keeps it looking healthy. Sunscreen sticks are a lightweight and convenient alternative to traditional bottled sunscreens, they're super easy to apply on the go and perfect for slipping into a travel bag or handbag.


Picking the right sunscreen stick can be tricky, however, which is why we've written this guide. First, we'll discuss key factors such as SPF levels and ingredients for sensitive skin, before introducing the top 10 best sunscreen sticks in the UK. With top brands available from Amazon, John Lewis and Boots, there'll be nothing to stop you from getting out and enjoying the unpredictable British summer!

Last updated 21/03/2024

Quick List - Top Sunscreen Sticks

1

Babo Botanicals

Super Shield Sport Stick17 g
Super Shield Sport Stick

An Earth-Friendly Sunscreen That’s Kind to Extra Sensitive Skin

2

MDSolarSciences

Solar Stick17 g
Solar Stick

A Reef-Safe Sunscreen That’s Full of Antioxidants

3

No7

Protect & Perfect Intense Advanced Sun Protection Stick7.5 g
Protect & Perfect Intense Advanced Sun Protection Stick

Protect Your Skin and Keep It Looking Younger

4

Supergoop!

Glow Stick35 g
Glow Stick

A Convenient Stick That’ll Give Your Skin a Radiant Glow

5

Piz Buin

Mountain Suncream + Lipstick20 ml
Mountain Suncream + Lipstick

Two-In-One High SPF Sunscreen and Lip Protection Stick

mybest Editing Team
Guide
mybest UK
mybest Editing Team

A recommendation service that carefully researches each product and consults with experts across many disciplines. We are constantly creating new content to provide the best shopping experience from choosing ‘cosmetics’ to ‘food and drink’, ‘home appliances’ to ‘kids and baby’ products, reaching users all across the United Kingdom.

mybest Editing Team's Profile
…Continue reading

Table of Contents

How to Choose a Sunscreen Stick in the UK

Key Points to Consider
  1. Select a Broad Spectrum, High SPF Sunscreen for the Best Protection
  2. Opt for a Hypoallergenic or Mineral Sunscreen if You Have Sensitive Skin
  3. Look for Beneficial Ingredients Like Zinc Oxide and Shea Butter 
  4. Pick a Water-Resistant Sunscreen and Keep Your Skin Protected All Day
1

Choose a High SPF, Broad Spectrum Sunscreen for Optimal Skin Protection

Choose a High SPF, Broad Spectrum Sunscreen for Optimal Skin Protection

Every sunscreen has an SPF (Sun Protection Factor) rating. The higher its SPF rating, the more a sunscreen is able to block the sun's harmful UVB rays and prevent burning. A higher SPF is usually better, but not by as much as you'd think. According to experts, an SPF15 sunscreen blocks about 94% of UVB rays, while an SPF30 blocks around 97%.


Unfortunately, not all sunscreens provide full coverage, and in addition to UVB rays, the sun also emits harmful UVA. Prolonged exposure to UVA rays can cause damage to your skin and lead to skin cancer. That's why it's essential that you choose a 'broad spectrum' sunscreen stick to protect yourself from both types of ultraviolet rays.


Most skincare experts recommend using a sunscreen of at least SPF30 to protect your skin daily. However, if you have especially sensitive skin, it's a good idea to go even higher and look for an SPF50 sunscreen. Fortunately, we've got plenty of high SPF options in our top ten list below!

2

Opt for a Hypoallergenic or Mineral Sunscreen if You Have Sensitive Skin

Opt for a Hypoallergenic or Mineral Sunscreen if You Have Sensitive Skin

It's not just a select few individuals that suffer from sensitive skin. Around 60-70% of women and 50-60% of men report having some skin sensitivity. Although chemical sunscreens have certain benefits, such as their lightweight formula and reduced chance of leaving a white cast, they contain ingredients, such as oxybenzone and dibenzoyl methanes, that are prone to causing skin irritation.


Fortunately, sunscreen sticks suitable for sensitive skin are widely available. To avoid irritation, opt for a hypoallergenic sunscreen stick that's more likely to be gentle on your skinA safe bet is to go for mineral sunscreens that use softer ingredients, such as zinc oxide and titanium oxide, that are generally kinder to your skin.

For a wider selection of skin-friendly sunscreens, check out the Best Sunscreens for Sensitive Skin.

3

Look for Beneficial Ingredients Like Zinc Oxide to Minimise Irritation, and Shea Butter to Moisturise Skin

Look for Beneficial Ingredients Like Zinc Oxide to Minimise Irritation, and Shea Butter to Moisturise Skin

Any good sunscreen will protect your skin from damage, but did you know that many sunscreen sticks also contain beneficial ingredients that nourish your skin to help it look smoother and healthier? Take zinc oxide, for example. As it protects your skin from harmful UV rays, this incredible mineral also helps seal moisture and minimise irritation.


Plenty of sunscreen sticks also contain refreshing ingredients such as shea butter. These incredible ingredients can soothe skin problems, help fight breakouts, and even combat the signs of ageing! Scouring ingredient lists isn't much fun, though, and that's why we've done the hard work for you and noted the beneficial ingredients in each sunscreen stick in our top ten list.


Keep dry skin hydrated with the Best Moisturisers for Dry Skin.

4

Keep Your Skin Protected at the Pool or Beach With a Water-Resistant Sunscreen

Keep Your Skin Protected at the Pool or Beach With a Water-Resistant Sunscreen

One of the places where sunscreen is most important is the beach. You're likely to spend a few hours there, and there's usually less shade to cover you from direct sunlight. But did you know that many sunscreens aren't water-resistant, and a dip in the sea will wash them away, leaving your skin exposed? That's why water-resistant sunscreen is essential, whether you're at the beach or by the pool. 


Water-resistant sunscreens come in one of two types - those that are water-resistant for 40 minutes and those that are resistant for 80 minutes. Naturally, the latter is preferable as it requires you to top up less frequently throughout the day. Try your best to get reef-safe sunscreen, too, as these don't contain ingredients that'll cause harm to water wildlife as you swim.


For a whole collection of ocean-friendly sunscreens, take a look at the Best Reef-Safe Sunscreens.

Was the Buying Guide helpful?

10 Best Sunscreen Sticks in the UK

mybest UK product recommendations are reviewed and curated by our writers in-house. We focus on in-depth research and analysis of product reviews to carefully select the best products available for the best prices.
Popularity
Products
Image
Click to purchase
Key features
1

Babo Botanicals

Super Shield Sport Stick17 g

Babo Botanicals Super Shield Sport Stick 1

An Earth-Friendly Sunscreen That’s Kind to Extra Sensitive Skin

2

MDSolarSciences

Solar Stick17 g

MDSolarSciences Solar Stick 1

A Reef-Safe Sunscreen That’s Full of Antioxidants

3

No7

Protect & Perfect Intense Advanced Sun Protection Stick7.5 g

No7 Protect & Perfect Intense Advanced Sun Protection Stick 1

Protect Your Skin and Keep It Looking Younger

4

Supergoop!

Glow Stick35 g

Supergoop! Glow Stick 1

A Convenient Stick That’ll Give Your Skin a Radiant Glow

5

Piz Buin

Mountain Suncream + Lipstick20 ml

Piz Buin Mountain Suncream + Lipstick 1

Two-In-One High SPF Sunscreen and Lip Protection Stick

6

Baby Bum

Mineral Sunscreen Face Stick13 g

Baby Bum Mineral Sunscreen Face Stick 1

A Fragrance-Free Sunscreen for the Whole Family

7

Hello Sunday

The Take-Out One Invisible Sun Stick30 g

Hello Sunday The Take-Out One Invisible Sun Stick 1

A Transparent Sunscreen That’s Perfect for Protection On-The-Go

8

La-Roche Posay

Anthelios XL Stick4.7 ml

La-Roche Posay Anthelios XL Stick 1

A Handy Stick That’ll Moisturise and Protect Your Face

9

Aveeno

Positively Mineral Sunscreen Stick42 g

Aveeno Positively Mineral Sunscreen Stick 1

Broad Spectrum Mineral Sunscreen for Sensitive Skin

10

Ultrasun

Lip Protection & Care4.8 g

Ultrasun Lip Protection & Care 1

A Miniature SPF 30 Stick for Protection Around Your Eyes

If you don't see the product you're looking for, you can request that it be listed.
No.1

Babo Botanicals
Super Shield Sport Stick17 g

Super Shield Sport Stick 1
Source:amazon.co.uk
Reference price
£22.99
High Mid
Reference price
£22.99
High Mid

An Earth-Friendly Sunscreen That’s Kind to Extra Sensitive Skin

This sunscreen stick is for you, if you've got extra sensitive skin or allergies. It's hypoallergenic and free from gluten, sulfates, parabens, dairy and much more. It's also cruelty-free and reef-friendly, so you can enjoy using it without feeling guilty. 


Instead of chemicals, the Super Shield Sport Stick contains 100% zinc oxide, which means it's mineral rather than chemical-based and will better protect your skin from UV rays. It even includes shea butter, jojoba and avocado oils - a trio of moisturising ingredients to promote softer skin!

Was this Ranking helpful?
No.2

MDSolarSciences
Solar Stick17 g

Solar Stick 1
Source:amazon.co.uk
Reference price
£36.75
High
Reference price
£36.75
High

A Reef-Safe Sunscreen That’s Full of Antioxidants

MDSolarScience's Solar Stick uses a lightweight, silky smooth formula that melts instantly into the skin, without leaving any residue or white cast. In addition, it's infused with antioxidant vitamins C and E to give your skin a radiant boost and help retain moisture.


The twist-up bottle makes it easy to apply this sunscreen on the go, and it's water-resistant for up to 80 minutes. The environmentally conscious will also be pleased to know that the Solar Stick is entirely vegan and uses a reef-safe formula that won't cause damage to our oceans.

No.3

No7
Protect & Perfect Intense Advanced Sun Protection Stick7.5 g

Protect & Perfect Intense Advanced Sun Protection Stick 1
Source:boots.com
Reference price
£12.95
Low Mid
Reference price
£12.95
Low Mid

Protect Your Skin and Keep It Looking Younger

No7's Sun Protection Stick fits conveniently in travel bags and handbags due to its slim packaging. However, it remains wide enough to offer decent coverage when you use it. Twist the dial, and you're good to go!


More importantly, it's what's inside the bottle that counts, and this sun stick more than delivers in that regard. It contains an antioxidant complex that includes peptides, and works to improve the appearance of fine lines for smoother skin, helping to combat the sun's ageing effects. 

No.4

Supergoop!
Glow Stick35 g

Glow Stick 1
Source:amazon.co.uk
Reference price
£25.93
High Mid
Reference price
£25.93
High Mid

A Convenient Stick That’ll Give Your Skin a Radiant Glow

The Glow Stick's convenient twist-up design makes it easy to apply, whether you're covering your entire face or simply topping up your nose and cheeks. It's quick to use and completely transparent, leaving no white cast.


The inside of this portable bottle is just as good as the outside, as this sunscreen uses a fragrance-free formula that boosts your skin with a blend of moisturising Amazonian oils, including tamanu, pracaxi and buriti. We love that the Glow Stick will leave your skin with a radiant glimmer, while keeping it protected.

No.5

Piz Buin
Mountain Suncream + Lipstick20 ml

Mountain Suncream + Lipstick 1
Source:boots.com
Reference price
£8.50
Low Mid
Reference price
£8.50
Low Mid

Two-In-One High SPF Sunscreen and Lip Protection Stick

It's not immediately apparent from looking at the bottle, but this is actually a two-in-one sunscreen stick. The main nozzle releases the SPF50 cream, with an SPF30 lipstick contained within the cap.


The main nozzle is excellent for protecting your face and body, while the small, rounded lipstick is ideal for topping up your lips and around your eyes throughout the day. It's effortless to apply to all areas of your body, and it even has a pleasant, creamy aroma, thanks to the addition of vanilla.

No.6

Baby Bum
Mineral Sunscreen Face Stick13 g

Mineral Sunscreen Face Stick 1
Source:amazon.co.uk
Reference price
£18.49
Mid
Reference price
£18.49
Mid

A Fragrance-Free Sunscreen for the Whole Family

Baby Bum has formulated this SPF 50 sunscreen stick especially for little ones, but that doesn't mean it's not suitable for grown-ups too! Its plant-based formula contains coconut oil, shea and cocoa butter, which is great for keeping skin hydrated throughout the day.


It's also perfect for sensitive skin, especially as it's fragrance-free. The formula does run a little bit thick. However, it remains quick and easy to apply, and is an excellent choice for keeping the whole family protected while enjoying the sunshine.

No.7

Hello Sunday
The Take-Out One Invisible Sun Stick30 g

The Take-Out One Invisible Sun Stick 1
Source:boots.com
Reference price
£15.00
Mid
Reference price
£15.00
Mid

A Transparent Sunscreen That’s Perfect for Protection On-The-Go

As the name suggests, this 'invisible' sun stick is completely transparent when you apply it to your skin. This makes its perfect for applying on-the-go, especially as the fun purple bottle won't weigh down your bag, whilst being of a decent enough size that it'll last for a while.


It's easy to apply as it glides effortlessly over your face and body. Plus, it's both sweat- and water-resistant, with a refreshing citrus scent. It is slightly greasy, due to being infused with oils, but it's suitable for sensitive skin and perfect when applied to dry areas.

No.8

La-Roche Posay
Anthelios XL Stick4.7 ml

Anthelios XL Stick 1
Source:amazon.co.uk
Reference price
£14.96
Mid
Reference price
£14.96
Mid

A Handy Stick That’ll Moisturise and Protect Your Face

This lightweight, twist-up tube is perfect for applying to the lips and other raised areas of the face, such as the cheeks and nose. It spreads quickly over the skin and absorbs well, without leaving any white cast or requiring much rubbing in.


The Anthelios XL stick also contains skin-friendly ingredients such as shea and cocoa butter. Not only is it gentle on sensitive and easily irritated skin, but helps to improve skin condition and texture. Despite being a little pricey for a small stick, it's ideal for keeping topped up throughout the day.

No.9

Aveeno
Positively Mineral Sunscreen Stick42 g

Positively Mineral Sunscreen Stick 1
Source:amazon.co.uk
Reference price
£24.99
High Mid
Reference price
£24.99
High Mid

Broad Spectrum Mineral Sunscreen for Sensitive Skin

Aveeno's Positively Mineral sunscreen stick is an excellent choice for those with sensitive skin. That's because it's hypoallergenic, fragrance-free and paraben-free. It also contains natural zinc oxide and pure oat essence, meaning it'll soothe your skin while it protects against UVA and UVB rays.


You can apply it to both face and body, and it's sweat- and water-resistant for up to 80 minutes. It sometimes leaves a white cast, and its scent isn't the best, although it does disappear quickly. Overall, this is an impressive sunscreen stick, especially for the price.

No.10

Ultrasun
Lip Protection & Care4.8 g

Reference price
£6.00
Low

A Miniature SPF 30 Stick for Protection Around Your Eyes

This miniature stick is designed to protect your lips, but also works pretty well for topping up around your eyes. Its small, twist design is easy to apply, and the lightweight sunscreen glides effortlessly onto your skin, accompanied by a subtle, sweet scent.


Don't let its size fool you! This lip balm offers factor 50 protection and includes several skin-soothing ingredients, such as argan oil, vitamin E and shea butter. However, it isn't a full-body sunscreen, so you'll need to ensure you're also equipped with another stick when you leave the house.

Written and researched by Ben Willimett

Top 5 Sunscreen Sticks

No. 1: Babo BotanicalsSuper Shield Sport Stick17 g

No. 2: MDSolarSciencesSolar Stick17 g

No. 3: No7Protect & Perfect Intense Advanced Sun Protection Stick7.5 g

No. 4: Supergoop!Glow Stick35 g

No. 5: Piz BuinMountain Suncream + Lipstick20 ml

View Full Ranking
The descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.

Most Viewed
Featured Rankings Similar to Bath & body

Beard Growth Oils

10 Best

New Arrivals
Featured Rankings Similar to Bath & body

Search by category

mybest

We connect users with the best tried and true products,
tested by our in-house guides and backed by expert insight.

Copyright mybest All Rights Reserved.