Effectiveness, How to Use, and Benefits

What’s a sunscreen stick?

A sunscreen stick is precisely what it feels like: a strong type of sunscreen that sometimes is available in a fairly twist-up tube. Each strong and liquid sunscreens include the identical energetic substances, equivalent to avobenzone and octocrylene, for pores and skin safety towards UV rays. Their principal variations come all the way down to their formulation. Sunscreen sticks include waxes and gelling brokers to take care of their strong construction, explains Pagán and King. As a comparability, Pagán says it is much like the distinction between a liquid lipstick and a bullet lipstick.

Are sunscreen sticks as efficient as liquid sunscreen?

The reply to this query is nuanced as a result of it hinges on whether or not you apply it appropriately. Dr. Mesinkovska says that whereas stick sunscreens can, in concept, “present satisfactory protection if the correct quantity is utilized,” the problem lies in the truth that there is not any clear visible indicator of its amount. “The really helpful quantity of sunscreen to make use of is 2mg per sq. cm of pores and skin, which equates to roughly 1 / 4 of a teaspoon,” the knowledgeable explains. “Whereas this quantity is pretty straightforward to estimate and visualize utilizing liquid sunscreens, it may be troublesome when utilizing a stick sunscreen.” 

“Due to this, most customers is not going to get the really helpful protection utilizing a stick sunscreen even with a number of passes or layers over the face to realize the complete SPF protection worth as indicated on the product,” Dr. Mesinkovska continues. The knowledgeable notes that you must apply a “appreciable quantity” to hit that optimum 2 mg mark. “For the common person who applies stick sunscreens utilizing just some passes, it’s unlikely that they are going to obtain full protection in comparison with a liquid sunscreen.”

Pagán seconds Dr. Mesinkovska’s level. “The most important good thing about liquid sunscreen is you may assure you’ll apply sufficient to get the marketed safety,” he explains. Since sunscreen is dosage-based, you could apply a set quantity to duplicate the quantity utilized in testing to acquire the marketed SPF worth. This is not essentially assured with sticks, as it’s a must to be very beneficiant, and measuring actual quantities is troublesome.” 

Many individuals wrestle to gauge the correct amount of sunscreen, particularly with non-liquid kinds like sticks. “With non-liquid sunscreen applied sciences, together with sticks, powders, and sprays, folks typically use much less product and fail to cowl all companies,” says Dr. Collins. “So, whereas the sunscreen itself is simply as efficient [as liquid sunscreen], the appliance is usually not as thorough or dense as with liquid as a result of individuals are pressured to rub it in.”

After which there’s the truth that utilizing a substantial quantity would possibly really feel kinda gross in your pores and skin, like these haunting recollections from my youth. In case you’re decided to reap UV safety from a sunscreen stick over a liquid components, “be ready to really feel a thick layer of sunscreen on the face,” Dr. Mesinkovska warns. “It would probably not be as snug and sensible for each day use as liquid sunscreens.” 

Advantages of sunscreen sticks

Regardless of Dr. Mesinkovska’s factors, she acknowledges some benefits of stick formulations: they’re mess-free, spill-proof, and straightforward to reapply. Pagán provides that they are additionally typically water and sweat-resistant, which is a plus. Dr. Collins has noticed amongst her sufferers that sure demographics favor sunscreen sticks. “I discover that my male sufferers, in addition to my children, are way more prepared to make use of a sunscreen stick than a typical lotion,” she explains. “I additionally assume that due to the portability and ease of use, individuals are more likely to take a stick on the go and really reapply.”

Whereas Dr. Collins appreciates stick sunscreens for a way straightforward they’re to make use of, she acknowledges that they may be higher suited to touch-ups. “It is in all probability true that most individuals would profit from an preliminary sunscreen utility utilizing a liquid sunscreen after which use of the follow reapply all through the day,” she says. 

How you can apply a sunscreen stick

Finally, comply with the steps outlined in your particular product’s packaging. However as a normal overview, Dr. Lal suggests “making use of two to a few layers broadly over the pores and skin,” then rubbing it into your pores and skin like a standard liquid sunscreen. 

Last takeaway

All dermatologists consulted for this piece unanimously agree that one of the best sunscreen for you is the one you will really use persistently. If that occurs to be a stick sunscreen, high quality! Simply you’ll want to apply it totally. In any other case, go for a liquid components. Your pores and skin will thanks for it.