What’s a sunscreen stick?
A sunscreen stick is precisely what it appears like: a stable type of sunscreen that sometimes is available in a fairly twist-up tube. Each stable and liquid sunscreens comprise the identical lively components, comparable to avobenzone and octocrylene, for pores and skin safety towards UV rays. Their principal variations come right down to their formulation. Sunscreen sticks comprise waxes and gelling brokers to take care of their stable construction, explains Pagán and King. As a comparability, Pagán says it is just like the distinction between a liquid lipstick and a bullet lipstick.
Consultants 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 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 simple 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 useful 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 professional notes that you should apply a “appreciable quantity” to hit that optimum 2 mg mark. “For the common consumer who applies stick sunscreens utilizing just some passes, it’s unlikely that they may 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 should 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, folks usually 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 persons are compelled 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 method, “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 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 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 rather 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 really reapply.”
Whereas Dr. Collins appreciates stick sunscreens for a way simple they’re to make use of, she acknowledges that they may be higher suited to touch-ups. “It is most likely true that most individuals would profit from an preliminary sunscreen utility utilizing a liquid sunscreen after which use of the persist with reapply all through the day,” she says.
apply a sunscreen stick
In the end, comply with the steps outlined in your particular product’s packaging. However as a common 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 conventional liquid sunscreen.
Ultimate takeaway
All dermatologists consulted for this piece unanimously agree that one of the best sunscreen for you is the one you may truly use constantly. If that occurs to be a stick sunscreen, fantastic! Simply you should definitely apply it totally. In any other case, go for a liquid method. Your pores and skin will thanks for it.