What’s a sunscreen stick?
A sunscreen stick is precisely what it feels 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 substances, similar to avobenzone and octocrylene, for pores and skin safety towards UV rays. Their important 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 medical 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 idea, “present satisfactory protection if the right quantity is utilized,” the problem lies in the truth that there is not any clear visible indicator of its amount. “The beneficial 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 skilled 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 won’t get the beneficial 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 skilled notes that you must apply a “appreciable quantity” to hit that optimum 2 mg mark. “For the common person who applies stick sunscreens utilizing only a few 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 advantage of liquid sunscreen is you’ll be able to assure you’ll apply sufficient to get the marketed safety,” he explains. Since sunscreen is dosage-based, you will 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 you need to be very beneficiant, and measuring actual quantities is troublesome.”
Many individuals wrestle to gauge the correct quantity of sunscreen, particularly with non-liquid varieties like sticks. “With non-liquid sunscreen applied sciences, together with sticks, powders, and sprays, individuals usually use much less product and fail to cowl all providers,” says Dr. Collins. “So, whereas the sunscreen itself is simply as efficient [as liquid sunscreen], the applying is commonly not as thorough or dense as with liquid as a result of persons 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. If you happen to’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’s going to most probably not be as snug and sensible for every 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 usually 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 far 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, persons are more likely to take a stick on the go and truly reapply.”
Whereas Dr. Collins appreciates stick sunscreens for the way straightforward they’re to make use of, she acknowledges that they could 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 perfect sunscreen for you is the one you may really use constantly. If that occurs to be a stick sunscreen, wonderful! Simply remember to apply it completely. In any other case, go for a liquid method. Your pores and skin will thanks for it.