Do dermats even approve of sunscreen sticks?

India Today

23-06-2025

If there's one skincare essential that's as important as a cleanser, it is a sunscreen. That's what dermatologists say.It protects from harmful UV radiation which can lead to early ageing, skin cancer and skin pigmentation.Dermatologists admit that there is a growing awareness among Indians about using sun protection. Industry numbers also suggest so. Meanwhile, cosmetic, pharmaceutical and cosmeceutical companies are coming up with innovative formulations to make sunscreens easier to apply and enjoyable to use.Traditional sunscreen tubes apart, we now have whipped sunscreens for those who want skincare to be fun. There are also sunscreen sprays which are super quick to use. Sunscreen sticks, however, are the biggest stars of the moment.
Sunscreen sticks are now popular all over the world. (Photo: Unsplash)
From cult-favourite K-Beauty and J-Beauty brands to homegrown Indian labels, sunscreen sticks are everywhere. Beauty enthusiasts love them too.
Sunscreen sticks are going viral, and many brands are now selling them.
Just take that sunscreen stick out of the pocket, swipe it across the skin and you're protected from sun damage. At least that's what most of us believe. But do dermatologists approve of sunscreen sticks?Moreover, should it replace your regular sunscreen tube? We took these questions to the skin experts. The answers? You wouldn't want to miss.The concernsOne of the top concerns while using a sunscreen stick is how to know if the quantity dispensed on your face is enough.'For proper protection, you need 2 mg/cm of sunscreen on your face. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, this means at least four generous passes of a sunscreen stick across your entire face,' says Dr Kiran Sethi, medical director of Isya Aesthetics.But applying that amount of sunscreen stick is impractical. Think greasy skin and acne!'Applying such large amounts of wax on your face is bound to be comedogenic,' adds Dr Sethi. Something that is comedogenic clogs facial pores and causes blackheads or acne to form.Dr Geetika Srivastava, dermatologist and founder of Influennz Skin and Hair Clinic in Delhi, says that frequent reapplication becomes more important because limited quantity comes off with each swipe.Most sunscreen sticks are wax-based and contain ingredients like beeswax, lanolin and paraffin, which are highly comedogenic, especially if used in large amounts.'Look for less comedogenic waxes like sunflower or rice bran wax,' suggests Dr Sethi.Another concern pertaining to sunscreen sticks is low SPF.'Many trending sunscreen sticks offer low SPF, which leads to inadequate protection. So, it's important to check the SPF and the ingredient list before choosing one,' highlights Dr Deepali Bhardwaj, Delhi-based dermatologist and hair transplant surgeon.Ideally, a sunscreen should be SPF 30 or above.Now when the weather is hot and humid, a sunscreen stick might also end up feeling heavy or greasy.The positivesThere are a lot of positives too. Firstly, the easier application – that's prime. If a product is built in a manner that you are encouraged to use it, you know it has won half the battle.With sunscreen sticks, they can be easily kept in pockets or even be hung as bag charms. Indian brands Gush Beauty and Lakme offer sunscreen sticks with on-the-go keychains.
Sunscreen? Yes. But also a bag charm.
Dermats agree too. 'They encourage more frequent use, especially among people who typically skip sunscreen altogether,' says Dr Srivastava.Sunscreen sticks are also good for targeted use. They are ideal for small or often-missed areas like the nose, ears, jawline and sides of the face. Those who swear by sunscreen sticks really love how it allows easy application, even over makeup. Reapplication is a sunscreen rule. You need to do that after 3 to 4 hours.But if you are already out and have your makeup on, a lotion sunscreen might hamper that makeup. A sunscreen stick won't.These are the key reasons behind the hype of sunscreen sticks, industry insiders say.'They've (sunscreen sticks) quickly gained popularity, particularly among young consumers. And for good reason: they're compact, effective and perfect for reapplication throughout the day, especially in India's hot and humid climate. While traditional sunscreens are ideal for your first layer, sunsticks are a practical, on-the-go addition making it easier than ever to stay protected. They're not a replacement, but an essential upgrade for real-life routines,' says Manasa Garamella, co-founder of kindlife, an online beauty retail store.Dermatologists highlight that a sunscreen stick, at the end of the day, is a sunscreen. Only the formulation is a bit different.'I'd like to clarify that sunscreen sticks use the same active ingredients (UVA and UVB blockers), both physical (like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide) and chemical filters, as conventional lotions or creams. The difference lies in the format,' says Dr Srivastava.Sunscreen sticks: To skip or keep?While they are not as effective as traditional sunscreens, there is no reason to completely ditch sunscreen sticks. Their easy-to-use format makes them a skincare superhero, as it enables reapplication which is an unmissable aspect of using sunscreen.There are plenty of good options available in the market. 'Cosmeceutical brands often make more effective, skin-safe sunscreen sticks,' says Dr Bhardwaj.Look for a sunscreen stick with:Non-comedogenic labelUVA and UVB blockersPhysical filters like zinc oxide and titanium dioxideSPF 30 to 50 for adequate UVB protectionPA rating of +++ or more, for UVA protectionFragrance-free and paraben-free formulas, to avoid sensitising agents that may trigger contact dermatitisThe best way to go about with sunscreen sticks? Start with lotion in the morning, then reapply with stick throughout the day.
advertisement