My Secret to Achieving a Naturally Sun-Kissed Glow? These Creamy Beauty Sticks! If you’re familiar with me, you know I’ve always had a passion for a beautiful tan (perhaps a bit excessively when I was 15).

If you’re familiar with me, you likely know that I adore being tan (perhaps even a bit too much — especially at 15). Now that I’m approaching 30, I’ve gained insight into sun exposure and its downsides. The outcome? A less tan version of myself — but you wouldn’t know it. I fake it until I make it.

Recently, I’ve been loving the brand Lux Unfiltered, founded by digital influencer Sivan Ayla (a creator I’ve been following for years). Her products are non-toxic, ultra-hydrating, and — most importantly — they actually perform. You might have heard about the popular No. 32 Gradual Self-Tanning Cream (our editors are big fans of the No. 12 Bronzing Face Drops, too). To shower even more praise on Lux Unfiltered’s remarkable collection, I’m excited to share: the No. 18 Illuminating Beauty Balm Sticks ($34) are my go-to secret for maintaining a radiant glow year-round.

No. 18 Illuminating Beauty Balm Sticks

Starting at

$34

$34 on Amazon

I’ve owned the Chili and Tropics shades of these sticks for around three months now, and I’ve noticed a significant difference in how many compliments I receive. The combination gives me a lit-from-within, sun-kissed, bronzy look — all without sun exposure. It’s incredibly easy to wear on both makeup and no-makeup days; it makes me appear healthy and vibrant. Even in the dead of winter when my skin might not feel its best, it looks great.

The formula is deeply hydrating and blends seamlessly into my skin. Honestly, I don’t even require moisturizer when using it — that’s how glow-inducing it is. Because it’s so nourishing, it applies like a dream. I just use my fingers, and I love the results. At this point, I even carry a few in my purse (evident from their slightly worn condition — I use them for everything).

This product is quite versatile — the brand mentions on its website that it can be used on your cheekbones, temples, nose, or “anywhere you want to highlight.” I’ve even applied it to my lips, and it worked beautifully, offering a lovely pop of color.

Typically, I apply it to my cheeks, nose, and forehead for a natural touch of color, blending it with either my fingers or a blush brush. The formula is pigmented, but once blended, it provides a soft, natural flush. And if you’re looking for more intensity, it layers effortlessly without appearing cakey.

One important detail to keep in mind prior to purchasing this product is its creamy texture. If it arrives in a warm environment, it’s advisable to place it in the fridge before opening. This preserves the product’s shape and prevents damage during transit.

I learned this the hard way, and it affected my balm sticks’ shape — so heed my advice and refrigerate them first, just to be safe!

You can purchase Lux Unfiltered’s Beauty Balm Sticks on Lux Unfiltered’s official site and on Amazon.

★★★★★

Haley Lyndes is a shopping writer and editor with over seven years of experience in publishing. Specializing in home and lifestyle, she covers a variety of topics from furniture and mattresses to beauty products and fitness gear. She previously worked as an SEO commerce writer for Apartment Therapy and The Kitchn. Her work has been featured in Buzzfeed, Travel & Leisure, and Real Simple. When not reviewing new finds or interviewing celebrities, you can likely spot her out for a run — she’s a marathoner.