What’s a sunscreen stick?
A sunscreen stick is strictly what it appears like: a strong type of sunscreen that usually is available in a fairly twist-up tube. Each strong and liquid sunscreens comprise the identical energetic elements, comparable to avobenzone and octocrylene, for pores and skin safety in opposition to UV rays. Their major variations come right down to their formulation. Sunscreen sticks comprise waxes and gelling brokers to keep up their strong construction, explains Pagán and King. As a comparability, Pagán says it is just like the distinction between a liquid lipstick and a bullet lipstick.
Specialists In This Article
- Ginger King, world-renowned beauty chemist and product developer
- Karan Lal, DO, FAAD, double-board-certified pediatric and beauty dermatologist.
- Kristina Collins, MD, FAAD, double board-certified dermatologist and founding father of Foy
- Natasha Atanaskova Mesinkovska, MD, Ph.D., board-certified dermatologist and vice chair of dermatology scientific analysis on the College of California Irvine
- Ramón Pagán, esthetician, beauty chemist, product formulator, and sweetness influencer
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 sufficient protection if the correct quantity is utilized,” the problem lies in the truth that there isn’t any clear visible indicator of its amount. “The really useful 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 professional explains. “Whereas this quantity is pretty straightforward to estimate and visualize utilizing liquid sunscreens, it may be troublesome when utilizing a stick sunscreen.”
Associated Tales
“Due to this, most customers won’t get the really useful protection utilizing a stick sunscreen even with a number of passes or layers over the face to realize the total SPF protection worth as indicated on the product,” Dr. Mesinkovska continues. The professional notes that you could 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’ll obtain full protection in comparison with a liquid sunscreen.”
Pagán seconds Dr. Mesinkovska’s level. “The largest advantage of liquid sunscreen is you possibly can assure you’ll apply sufficient to get the marketed safety,” he explains. Since sunscreen is dosage-based, you need to apply a set quantity to copy 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 precise quantities is troublesome.”
Many individuals wrestle to gauge the correct amount of sunscreen, particularly with non-liquid types like sticks. “With non-liquid sunscreen applied sciences, together with sticks, powders, and sprays, individuals 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 may 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 method, “be ready to really feel a thick layer of sunscreen on the face,” Dr. Mesinkovska warns. “It can almost definitely not be as comfy and sensible for day by 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 simple 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 youngsters, are rather more keen to make use of a sunscreen stick than a typical lotion,” she explains. “I additionally suppose that due to the portability and ease of use, individuals are more likely to take a stick on the go and truly reapply.”
Whereas Dr. Collins appreciates stick sunscreens for a way straightforward they’re to make use of, she acknowledges that they is likely to be higher fitted to touch-ups. “It is most likely true that most individuals would profit from an preliminary sunscreen software utilizing a liquid sunscreen after which use of the follow reapply all through the day,” she says.
Easy methods to apply a sunscreen stick
In the end, observe the steps outlined in your particular product’s packaging. However as a basic overview, Dr. Lal suggests “making use of two to 3 layers broadly over the pores and skin,” then rubbing it into your pores and skin like a standard liquid sunscreen.
Ultimate takeaway
All dermatologists consulted for this piece unanimously agree that the most effective sunscreen for you is the one you will really use constantly. If that occurs to be a stick sunscreen, fantastic! Simply you’ll want to apply it completely. In any other case, go for a liquid method. Your pores and skin will thanks for it.
