What is sunscreen?
A sunscreen stick is exactly what it sounds like: a solid form of sunscreen that comes in a pretty twisty tube. Both solid and liquid sunscreens contain the same active ingredients, such as avobenzone and octocrylene, that protect the skin from UV rays. Their main difference comes down to formulation. Sunscreen sticks contain waxes and gelling agents to maintain a sturdy structure, Pagán and King explain. By comparison, Pagán says it's similar to the difference between a liquid lipstick and a bullet lipstick.
expert in this article
- Ginger King, world-renowned cosmetic chemist and product developer
- Karan Lal, DO, FAAD, dual board-certified pediatric and cosmetic dermatologist.
- Kristina Collins, MD, FAAD, dual board-certified dermatologist and founder of Foy
- Natasha Atanaskova Mesinkovska, MD, Ph.D., board-certified dermatologist and vice president for clinical research in dermatology at the University of California Irvine.
- Ramón Pagán, hairdresser, cosmetic chemist, product manufacturer, beauty influencer
Are sunscreen sticks as effective as liquid sunscreen?
The answer to this question is nuanced because it depends on whether you apply it correctly. Dr. Mesinkovska says that in theory, stick sunscreens can “provide adequate coverage when applied in the right amount,” but the problem is that there is no clear visual indication of that amount. “The recommended amount of sunscreen is 2mg per square centimeter of skin, which is about a quarter of a teaspoon,” explains the expert. She says, “This amount is fairly easy to estimate and visualize with liquid sunscreens, but can be difficult with stick sunscreens.”
“Because of this, most users will not achieve the recommended coverage using stick sunscreens, even if they apply multiple or multiple layers to their face to achieve the full SPF coverage value listed on the product,” continues Dr. Mesinkovska. . Experts point out that a “substantial amount” must be applied to reach the optimal 2mg mark. She says, “For the average user who applies a stick sunscreen after only a few uses, it's unlikely you'll get full coverage compared to a liquid sunscreen.”
Pagán went beyond Dr. Mesinkovska's claims. “The biggest advantage of liquid sunscreen is that you can ensure you apply enough to get the advertised protection,” he explains. Sunscreens are dose-based, so to get the advertised SPF value, you must apply a set amount, replicating the amount used in the test. “This is not necessarily guaranteed with sticks, as you have to be very generous and measuring exact amounts is difficult.”
Many people have trouble measuring the right amount of sunscreen. especially Non-liquid form, such as a stick. “People who use non-liquid sunscreen technologies, including sticks, powders, sprays, etc., often use less product and fail to ensure full coverage,” says Dr. Collins. “So the sunscreen itself is effective, but [as liquid sunscreen]“Application is often not as thorough or as dense as liquids because people are forced to rub.”
And then there's the fact that it can feel rather gross on your skin if you use it in significant quantities. Like an unforgettable memory from childhood. Dr. Mesinkovska says that if you decide to achieve sun protection by using a sunscreen stick over a liquid formulation, she warns, “Be prepared to feel a thick layer of sunscreen on your face.” She says, “It's probably not as comfortable and practical for daily use as liquid sunscreen.”
Advantages of sunscreen sticks
Despite Dr. Mesinkovska's claims, she acknowledges some advantages of the stick formulation. That means no mess, no dripping, and easy to reapply. Pagán adds that its water and sweat resistance is also a plus. Dr. Collins has observed that certain demographics among patients prefer sunscreen sticks. “I find that my male patients, as well as my children, much prefer the sunscreen stick over regular lotion,” she explains. “I also think because of the portability and ease of use, people are much more inclined to pick up the stick on the go and actually reapply.”
Dr. Collins appreciates the ease of use of stick sunscreens, but acknowledges that they may be better suited for touch-up work. “It's probably true that most people can achieve results by first applying sunscreen using a liquid sunscreen and reapplying it with a stick throughout the day,” she says.
How to apply sunscreen
Ultimately, follow the steps outlined on the packaging of your specific product. But as a general outline, Dr. Lal suggests “applying two to three layers generously over the skin,” then rubbing it into the skin like a traditional liquid sunscreen.
Final takeaway
All dermatologists consulted for this piece unanimously agree that, in fact, it is the best sunscreen to use consistently. Stick sunscreen is fine! Apply thoroughly. Otherwise, choose liquid formula. Your skin will thank you for it.