Reapplying sunscreen throughout the day is so important, but let’s be honest, it can also be kind of annoying. That’s why sun sticks have become a staple in my skincare routine, especially during warmer months or when I’m on the go. They make SPF reapplication effortless, mess-free, and makeup-friendly.
If you have oily or combination skin like me, sun sticks can be a total game changer. Not only are they compact and easy to use, but many formulas are designed to help control shine and keep your skin feeling fresh. I’ve tried a lot of them, and these four are hands down my holy grail picks, each one offering unique benefits that make SPF reapplication something I actually look forward to.
What Are Sun Sticks & Why Use Them?
Sun sticks are solid-format sunscreens that glide directly onto the skin. They’re perfect for reapplying SPF during the day, especially when you’re outdoors, at the beach, or wearing makeup. Unlike lotions or sprays, they’re:
- Mess-free and portable
- Precise (great for hard-to-reach spots like around the nose or under eyes)
- Ideal for on-the-go touch-ups
- Often formulated with extra skin-loving ingredients
My Go-To Sun Sticks for Oily/Combination Skin
Abib Airy Sunstick Smoothing Bar
This one’s a dream for makeup wearers. The texture is super light, glides effortlessly, and leaves a semi-matte finish that sits beautifully on top of foundation. It doesn’t cake or smear my base, huge win.
Key Ingredients:
- SPF50+ PA++++: High broad-spectrum protection
- Sunflower Seed Oil: Moisturises and softens the skin
- Allantoin: Soothes irritation and supports skin repair
Perfect for: Keeping in your bag for SPF top-ups. It’s reef safe, waterproof, and never feels greasy. I reach for this one when I need something reliable and makeup-friendly.
Purito Daily Soft Touch Sun Stick
If your skin tends to get shiny by noon, this is your go-to. The finish is beautifully matte thanks to its sebum-control powder, and it genuinely keeps excess oil at bay.
Key Ingredients:
- SPF50+ PA++++: Reliable UV protection
- Water Parsley: Helps improve skin health
- Aloe Vera: Calms and hydrates
- Allantoin: Smooths and soothes skin
- Sebum control powder: Keeps skin shine-free all day
Why I love it: It’s non-greasy, glides smoothly, and never leaves a white cast. One of the best for truly oil-controlling touch-ups during hot, humid days.
Tocobo Vita Waterproof Sun Stick
This sun stick does it all, UV protection, oil control, hydration, and even a touch of skin barrier support. The soft, powdery texture keeps excess oil and sweat at bay, leaving skin matte and smooth, and making it ideal for oily or combination skin. It’s also waterproof, making it great for more active days.
Key Ingredients:
- SPF50+ PA++++: Broad spectrum UV protection
- Madecassic Acid + Asiaticoside: Soothe irritation and strengthen the skin barrier
- Vitamin E: Offers antioxidant support while moisturising and promoting skin regeneration
Why I love it: It’s reef safe and waterproof, making it perfect for beach days, workouts, or long walks outside. The formula keeps me matte without feeling dry, and it gives that extra hydration and nourishment my skin needs, thanks to the added Vitamin E.
SKIN1004 Madagascar Centella Hyalu-Cica Silky-Fit Sun Stick
This formula is beautiful for sensitive or combo skin. It has a silky finish that glides like a dream, and zero white cast. It’s also packed with skin-loving ingredients that hydrate and calm. The stick is so tiny and cute, it fits into even the smallest bag! Great for quick, invisible touch-ups when you’re out and about.
Key Ingredients:
- SPF50+ PA++++: Strong sun protection
- Centella Asiatica Extract: Calms and soothes irritation
- Hyaluronic Acid: Hydrates without feeling heavy
Why it’s a fave: It feels like skincare and SPF in one. I love using it when my skin needs hydration and sun protection.
Why Sun Sticks Work So Well for Oily Skin
Sun sticks are ideal if you:
- Have oily or combination skin and want to avoid shine
- Wear makeup and want to reapply SPF without disturbing your look
- Need something portable and fast for daily top-ups
- Prefer a mess-free, glide-on formula
They’re an essential part of my summer (and honestly, year-round) routine. Each of these options balances sun protection with skin-soothing ingredients, so I don’t just get protection, I get a little skincare boost, too.
