Swipe on These Serum Sticks for Glow Anytime, Anywhere

Consistency is key to an effective skincare routine, and the best serum sticks make it very easy. These unconfusing alternatives of bottled face serums lined up in your sink are perfect for tossing your tote, travel or anytime on your day largely I forgot that you made your face (yes, because sometimes your morning repellent occurs at 2pm). Serum Sticks offer all the globoosting, smooth and hydrating benefits of liquid counterparts in a form you’re looking forward to using. In fact, they often feature ingredients loved by dermatologists who we have come to rely on, such as hyaluronic acid, retinol, scalan, and niacinamide, and address certain concerns such as pigmentation, thin lines, and dryness. We chatted with editors and board-certified Derm, highlighting these serum sticks and finding picks that can’t live without them.

Our Top Picks

FAQ

Overall the best: Toucher Serum Stick

Why is it worth it: Tatcha’s The Serum Stick is packed with 80% purified Scaran and sunflower seed wax and Japanese rice bran. Of course, you can also immerse yourself in the brand’s signature Hadase-3. This is a blend rich in antioxidants from Kacha, Okinawan Mozuku Algae and Akita Rice that power all of Tacha’s products. I love swiping sticks over my naked skin and makeup from a Boston-based board certified dermatologist. Ranella HirschMD, I like to use formula as a base makeup primer to improve blendability. Even if you use it, serum sticks are a welcome hydration boost and a permanent fixture in our wallet.

Tester Feedback: “I usually don’t focus much on product packaging, but when it comes to skincare, practicality is key to daily use and applications on the go,” says Biancalichers, social media manager. “The Tatcha Serum Stick has become a favorite addition to my skincare routine, especially using it as a balm under the eyes to add additional moisture and smoothness to the area, and is fully prepared for makeup applications.”

Important Ingredients: Hadasei-3, Squarene, Sunflower Seed Wax | Flegley Free: Yes| For who is it: Those who need multifunctional options

Most moisturizing: Milk Makeup Cooling Water Jelly Ice Sorting Serum Stick

Why is it worth it: The texture of the soothing serum stick of milk make-up cooling water jelly ice is a joy in itself, but it is an effective formula that keeps us covered every day. This satisfying, elastic jelly-like serum is perfect for all skin types (preventing acne) that deal with swelling, dryness or redness. Cool, slid face sticks across your skin, enjoying rewards of niacinamide, aloe, caffeine and seawater. “Cooling is due to the release of water when pressed,” explains the cosmetic chemist. Ginger King. “Also, when you include aloe vera in combination with fumectants such as glycerin, sorbitol, polysaccharides, and polymers, it improves its refreshing effect.” This is a clear version, but if you are craving a flash along with reactivation, reach for a cooling jelly with one of six rosy shades.

Jessamari Karaoll after applying milk makeup cooling water jelly ice soothing serum stick

Milk Cosmetic Cooling Water Jelly Ice Applying a Relaxed Serum Stick

Tester Feedback: “Traveling is pretty cruel on dry skin of rosacea. After a recent flight, I explained that my skin is red and itchy, and at one point I feel like I’m raw to my husband.” “This elastic stick was incredible to soothe it. It cools as I slide my skin and maintain hydration. Its cooling effect is what I want to reach before itching or picking my skin.”

Important Ingredients: Niacinamide, Aloe, Amino Acids | Flegley Free: Yes| For who is it: everyone

Best shine: Glossier Futuredew Solid Oil Thumb Illuminator

Why is it worth it: A kind of make-up, a kind of skincare, and a kind of perfect Glossier future solid oil thumb illuminator brings everything we love about liquid originals to the solid stick form, making the challenges of the entire application even more appealing. This glogering balm is ideal for days when you’re craving a juicy exposure without the sparkling glow in a standard highlighter, thanks to moisture locked vegetable oil and vitamin E acetate. It can be used as the final step in a skincare regimen or as part of a make-up routine after applying the base.

Annie Blackman after applying Glossier’s Futuredew Solid Oil-Serum Stick

Blackman applying Glossier’s Futuredew Solid Oil-Serum Stick

Tester Feedback: “The highlighter portability factor is so important to me, so this Glossier Stick quickly earned points,” says Blackman. “I really love how constructible this formula is and when I layer it adds warmth to my complexion. At first I was worried that it might be a little oily, but after a few minutes of sitting it, it calms down. I’m excited to carry this into the summer.”