We tested serum sticks at all price points – and one is perfect for dry skin... - The US Sun

SOLID skincare is in the spotlight as we look to more sustainable formats for toiletries and a way to make beauty products more travel-friendly.

Today I put three serum sticks to the test.

Serum sticks are both sustainable and travel-friendlyCredit: Supplied

Budget

This option is great for travel, but doesn't do the job as well as a liquid serumCredit: Supplied

Kiko Milano Smart Hydrashot Stick, (£6.99 for 4ml, kikocosmetics.com): First, it is tiny – the size of a lip balm, which makes it great for travel.

But I don’t know how long it will last, as it takes quite a few passes to cover the face.

It has an immediate soothing effect, which is especially welcome in this current drying cold spell.

Even so, it’s not as hydrating as my usual liquid serum, so I layer the two rather than using just the stick.

I can see it would be great for light-luggage trips, but I don’t think I’ll use it much at home.

Mid-range

This is a true all-rounder and suitable for all skin types on paperCredit: Supplied

Skin Gym Collagen Face Serum Stick (£18 for 10g, skingymco.com): This is the most hydrating of the three I tried.

But that meant it didn’t properly settle on my face and remained quite tacky, making it hard to apply my usual make-up over it.

Ingredients include collagen, neem extract, moringa oil, shea butter and peptides which nourish skin, making it feel more hydrated and comfortable while also fighting blemishes and hyperpigmentation.

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It’s a true all-rounder and suitable for all skin types on paper, although the glossy texture isn’t for me.

But if you have dry skin and like a dewy finish to your make-up, then this will be perfect.

Luxury

This one is great as a touch-up stick to disperse make-up that has settled in pores and fine lines without taking it off or adding more coverageCredit: Supplied

Tatcha The Serum Stick (£49 for 8g, tatcha.co.uk): The most hydrating of the three.

At first it feels quite balmy, but quickly dries to a soft, seamless finish more like a primer than a serum.

I prefer the liquid version in my skincare routine, but this stick really comes into its own as a companion to make-up.

It doesn’t feel greasy or oily, and is great as a touch-up stick to disperse make-up that has settled in pores and fine lines without taking it off or adding more coverage.

It’s earned a place in my routine for that alone and took top spot – but not for the reasons I expected.