Sunscreen Stick Guide + 5 Popular Products in Hong Kong & Macau

Sunscreen sticks are compact, portable sun protection products, usually containing sunscreen balm in a convenient stick form. Their popularity is growing rapidly, and modern formulations go beyond basic sun protection. Some sticks are water-resistant or oil-control variants, catering to different skin types while preventing skin damage, premature aging, and oxidative stress caused by UV exposure. Here, we introduce the multi-functional benefits of sunscreen sticks and 5 highly popular products in Hong Kong and Macau — read to the end for all the details.

1

Sunscreen Stick: Convenient UV Protection at Your Fingertips

Sunscreen balms, often in stick form and called sunscreen sticks, are solid sunscreens with a thicker consistency than creams. This makes them less likely to drip and easy to apply to delicate areas such as the nose, ears, and around the eyes.

The stick design is portable and mess-free, perfect for on-the-go reapplication without disturbing makeup. Ideal for travel, daily sun protection, or outdoor activities.

2

How to Choose Sunscreen? Understand the 4 Major Formulations

1. Sunscreen Stick: Solid, Dry, Non-Greasy

Sunscreen sticks are thick yet non-greasy, perfect for targeted application on the nose, cheeks, ears, and neck. Since you don’t need your hands, they’re convenient for reapplication and mess-free. The protective layer sticks well, even with sweat or oil, making them suitable for outdoor activities and for oily or combination skin.

2. Sunscreen Lotion: Lightweight & Hydrating

Lotion-type sunscreens are water-based, lightweight, and easy to spread. Ideal for dry or combination skin, they work well as a base under makeup. If you find sticks too heavy or powder sunscreens too dry, lotion is a gentle compromise.

3. Sunscreen Cream: Moisturizing & Long-Lasting

Thicker than lotion, cream sunscreens provide longer-lasting protection and are suitable for dry skin or prolonged sun exposure. Although slightly richer, they nourish while protecting the skin.

4. Sunscreen Powder: Dry & Oil-Control

Powder sunscreens are light, non-greasy, and perfect for oily skin or touch-ups over makeup. They absorb oil and blur pores, but their coverage is limited for large areas. Best used in combination with sticks or lotions for full protection.

Choosing the Right Sunscreen for You Consider your skin type and usage context. Oily or makeup-reapplying skin may prefer powder; dry or flaky skin benefits from lotion or cream; for spot protection or mess-free use, sticks are ideal. Mixing formulations can provide comprehensive sun coverage.

3

Benefits of Sunscreen Sticks: 5 Multi-Functional Advantages

1. Comprehensive UV Protection

Sticks shield against UVA and UVB rays, forming a stable protective layer. They reduce tanning, sunburn, and premature aging, acting as the first line of defense.

2. Oil Control & Makeup Longevity

Many sticks contain oil-absorbing ingredients to reduce shine and stabilize sebum. Great for oily or combination skin, they also help makeup last longer, making them ideal for base or touch-up applications.

3. Water- & Sweat-Resistant

The thicker, adherent formula provides excellent water and sweat resistance. Ideal for athletes or prolonged outdoor activities, the protective film remains intact even with perspiration.

4. Improves Skin Appearance

Some sticks include soft-focus powders or tinting agents that subtly even skin tone and reduce dullness, giving a natural “blurred” effect. Even without makeup, skin looks fresh and radiant.

5. Prevents Skin Issues

Regular use prevents sensitivity, redness, dark spots, and enlarged pores. By blocking UV rays and reducing sebum-related stress, it helps maintain healthy, stable skin over time.

4

5 Popular Sunscreen Sticks in Hong Kong & Macau

1. Beauty of Joseon Moisturizing Sunscreen Stick SPF50PA++++

Korean favorite, hydrating yet lightweight. Contains hyaluronic acid, mineral filters, and plant oils for natural glow and high moisture. Non-greasy and non-whitening, perfect for dry or sensitive skin, especially in humid HK/Macau weather. Cost-effective, suitable for beginners or those preferring a natural finish.

2. IOPE Water-Ion Sunscreen Stick SPF50PA++++

“Heat-Sensing Sun Protection” technology. Adapts to skin temperature and environment for stronger protection. Water- and sweat-resistant, smooth texture, light finish — great for outdoor activities in Hong Kong or Macau.

3. Korean Kids Sunscreen Sticks (Multiple Brands)

Sensitive and child-friendly. Brands like Bebble and A’pieu use gentle mineral formulations, fragrance- and alcohol-free, perfect for delicate or young skin. Can be applied on face and body for all-day protection.

4. Advanced Defense Sunscreen Sticks (Brands like AHC, Shiseido)

High-performance outdoor protection. Often enriched with vitamin E for antioxidant benefits. Suitable for shopping, travel, or sports. Slightly pricier, but excellent durability and protection for frequent sun exposure.

5. Transparent Sunscreen Sticks (Popular with Macau Travelers)

Non-whitening, non-cakey, lightweight for touch-ups. Brands like Some By Mi and Abib feature oil-control and moisturizing ingredients, acting as a base and sunscreen simultaneously. Perfect for light makeup lovers or quick reapplication needs.

Correct Usage of Sunscreen Sticks

• Preparation: Cleanse and dry skin before use.
• Application: Apply evenly, back and forth, covering every area.
• Amount: Twist out enough for 0.2 cm thickness per application for effective protection.
• Reapplication: Every 2–3 hours, especially after sweating or swimming.
• Removal: Use a proper makeup remover to avoid residue clogging pores and causing acne.

5

Even with Sunscreen, UV Damage Can Occur — Try PicoCure!

If you still get tanned despite consistent sunscreen application, Perfect Medical PicoCure Pigmentation Removal Treatment can address sunspots, uneven skin tone, enlarged pores, and hydration issues. This painless, non-invasive treatment safely rejuvenates skin, delivering visible results in a short time.

PicoCure combines picosecond and nanosecond technology, using four wavelengths to target pigmentation, dark spots, pores, and eye-area aging. It breaks down melanin at its root, restoring youthful skin.