Do sunscreen sticks work? The science 

Full data and procedures are here: labmuffin.com/how-to-apply-sunscreen-stick/ If you have a set of scales and want to re-run this experiment, I'd love to see your results and maybe add them to this post if you'd like! Yes it's possible that a stick could have more concentrated ingredients that would allow it to give higher SPF with less swipes, but I don't think that's the case: * All products are tested with 2 milligrams per square cm of product weighed out at the start before applying, to prove their SPF rating for the labelled claim (ru-vid.com/video/%D0%B2%D0%B8%D0%B4%D0%B5%D0%BE-jw-9Jphc_cM.html). This includes powders, foundations and sprays which have way more issues than sticks. * For these sticks to give SPF 50 with the first layer (on average), they would have to achieve SPF 132 in the standard SPF test. * These sticks are SPF 50+ so it's possible they have higher than SPF 50, but I don't think it's that much higher - if a brand spent extra time and effort and money to make an SPF 132 stick, surely they would allude to it in their marketing, to give people a reason to buy it instead of their competitor's SPF 50 stick? Like show their actual SPF results (many Korean brands do this for lotions, but I haven't come across it for sticks), or say something like "SPF 50 with 8 swipes"... In theory it's possible to formulate an SPF 400 stick that spreads nicely enough to give SPF 50 protection with 4 swipes... but I don't think there's much incentive to do that at the moment, since so few people know how hard it is to apply sticks efficiently. Maybe this video will help? 😅 All about official SPF testing, why 2 mg/cm2 etc: ru-vid.com/video/%D0%B2%D0%B8%D0%B4%D0%B5%D0%BE-jw-9Jphc_cM.html SPF powders, "pea-sized" sunscreen amounts: ru-vid.com/video/%D0%B2%D0%B8%D0%B4%D0%B5%D0%BE-iDInh3ruRzI.html I'm sorry to anyone I recommended 4 passes to, I assumed the AAD would have a good reason for their recommendation but I should've known from their track record on sunscreens 🤦🏻‍♀ Maybe they used a super squishy old-school zinc stick that was very different from the one they showed in their video? But I suspect it might just be one of those misinterpretations that passed down over time.

I got tired of this spf obsession. I've been using spf for over 10 years now, and I've never felt so much anxiety and pressure about it before. I have very oily skin, and despite trying many brands, including the most popular ones, I couldn't find one that really suited my skin. So I'm fed up with being obsessed with this stuff. I'm going to use a comfortable amount and just stop stressing out about this. It's just my experience and opinion, though. Can't deny the importance of spf, maybe it works better for someone with dry skin.

I am not a religious viewer of your channel but every video I watch is so in depth and so informative. I really appreciate the content you create!

At this point I'm willing to take what I can get. If I have to reapply a couple teaspoons of product every few hours, I'm simply not going to do it or stay home. Sunscreen feels like such a losing battle, either I get to enjoy myself ignoring doing it properly while instead worrying about sun damage and illness, or l spend an entire day running around finding places to touch up and still knowing I look greasy and smudgey all day. I'm so over it, slather me with the sticks

Honestly having to constantly use sunscreen has become such a chore which is crazy to say. Even though it seems sticks aren't the best, I'm going to stick with them. It's just so much more convenient especially with my job.

Not only are they great for putting sunscreen on kids, but also fantastic for teaching kids to put sunscreen on themselves! My 5yo puts her own sunscreen on every morning before school. Considering the UV index has been low for several months, and she's spending very little time outside, this is more about building habits than getting the "best" protection at this point. If we're going to be out long enough to worry about burns (which is 20 minutes in the summer for us😆) we start the day with a lotion sunscreen. I definitely still take charge or at least closely monitor in that scenario, but on a normal morning I know the stick will let her get a "good enough" layer. She uses a mineral one from Babo Botanicals because she likes the bunny on the package.😆 Edit: I should add that the reason it's been so helpful is because she makes less of a mess this way AND she doesn't complain about how much she hates the feel of lotion on her hands.

Thanks for this thorough explanation Michelle, most people just wouldn't know this. It's honestly eye-opening to see how much of a sunscreen stick you'd actually need to apply to get the stated SPF, it's ridiculous! Sticking to using it as a top up from now on.

This has been my suspicion for quite a while, and the reason I haven't tried any sunscreen sticks to this point. Just like with sunscreen powders, it seems like most sticks are essentially incapable of providing the listed SPF with normal consumer use. I honestly feel like they shouldn't be allowed to claim these much higher SPF protection numbers when the average consumer is never going to use them that way. The amount of product a typical consumer is expected to use needs to be a part of how the SPF rating is measured.

I use a stick around my eyes because every lotion stings in the eyes. However I realized now that I never applied it so rigorously to even the corners there and also only ever did a few passes without much thought how much product I was actually only using there. Thank for this useful information I'll certainly pay more attention to my eye area from now on 🙏

This is so objective, analytical, and scientific; i LOVE IT. So many other reviewers say: "It makes me look sooo ashy!" "The packaging is really cute" "It fits in my pocket" Ok, but how much should I apply? How much protection is it really giving me? Is it effective, OBJECTIVELY and SCIENTIFICALLY speaking? Your breakdown was unparalleled and phenomenal!

Wow, this was definitely surprising to me. Basically, you can't get full uv protection with sticks. I've only ever used sticks for reapplication (they're so handy, small and non-messy to carry around in a pocket or handbag) but I'm reconsidering even that now.

Love the way you broke down the testing of this. This is the kind of content I look for!

I’m speechless at the quality of your experimentation and visualizations/presentation of results. Incredible.

I really love how everything is well measured and science based that’s why I love your channel! This really surprised me.

I came from insta and did not expect such a detailed and broken down video! I'm very impressed! I had my eyes on stick sunscreens for a while because I go through a whole ritual when using lotion sunscreen to not break out and a second layer is an absolute nightmare, but after seeing this I'm not gonna risk it because I live in an area where the sun is really harsh.

I can’t use them over makeup without ruining it, but these sticks are soooo easy to use on days when you are just out and about or doing activities. I like to use them then set it with translucent powder. That way I have a less shiny/greasy finish, and I can reapply on top without visibly moving any pigment around (as long as you aren’t using a heavy silicone based powder- I’m looking at you Urban Decay All Nighter pressed setting power).

Watching your videos give me such comfort that we have someone amazing looking after us.

I only have an SPF stick in my bag to rub on the backs of my hands during the day since I wash my hands a lot but I never realized how much you actually need for decent coverage! I'm glad I never relied on sticks for the face.

You literally read my mind by making this video, THANK YOU!!!

The amount of testing/ research that went into this video is AMAZING!!!! 🙌🙌 thank you❤

Thanks for making this! I've been eyeing some stick sunscreens and you're helping me decide whether to spend my money

How rigorous your methodology is and how you lay it out in the video is so satisfying lol I have such an appreciation for this

stumbled upon this video when researching sunscreen sticks and your efforts are much appreciated! this was so thorough.

This is such a quality video! Michelle is the real MVP of science/beauty educators online. Breath of fresh air ✨

Such a thorough video! I’d love to see the same testing on powder sunscreens❤

I've always wondered about this. Thank you for investigating.

I used to use sunscreen sticks a lot while snowboarding. That thick waxy texture does a great job of protecting your skin from cold wind and the sun but I switched to a thick waxy sunscreen that comes in a tub for that scenario now because I feel like it's better to get into all the crevices with my fingers vs a stick. Just like you, I was missing the area around my nostrils and I had repeated issues of wind/sun burn in that area. Literally all the skin around my nostrils would be constantly peeling during snowboard season. Now before I leave the house I "prime" my skin with Supergoop Cloud Nine and then I reapply on the mountain with Ski Balm. The ski balm is super thick and waxy and does a great job blocking the wind too. Thanks for making this video. Up until now, I had assumed that it was the formulation of the sunscreen that was not protecting the area around my nostrils. Now I am pretty sure it was the format of the stick that meant I wasn't getting all the areas that needed to be covered.

Love your in depth reviews. Thank you so much!

I was wondering about this last week!! So cool, thanks a lot ♡

I only just realized rewatching this that you tested all 3 sticks on the same day! Poor thing! ❤ I hope all that didn't irritate your face too badly. We appreciate the sacrifices you make for us in the name of science. 🔬

This was great! I really appreciate your logical analysis and communication!

this content in invaluable. i dream of getting info like this! i was always suspect of sticks being suitable and you've done all the heavy lifting! thank you so much michelle

Sunscreen sticks are heavy on the skin. Some brands may state that their sticks have a matte finish. They do look matte, but when you touch it, you can feel a thick layer of sunscreen on top of your skin. Not to mention you get so much less product for twice the price. That's why i stick to conventional sunscreens because the measurement is clear and i get the protection that i need. Sunscreen sticks are convenient for reapplication, though, if you're outside.

Another great and informative video. You are saying about the same thing that my (amazing) dermatologist told me. She only recommends sticks for re-application throughout the day, putting on 2-3 full coats with each application, and use fingers to spread to the corners of the nose and other difficult to reach spots. They will absolutely ruin your makeup if you use them as you are supposed to, at least the ones I tried (La Roche-Posay and Decathlon Sport, both 50+) did.

You’ve really outdone yourself in this video, Michelle.. never brought into the concept of stick spf for my personal use, since it is too time consuming in the end.. more expensive as well..& if I apply + reapply the recommended amount everyday, I will run out in 5 days with how small these are

I really appreciate your scientific explanation of this and other products like the sunscreen power. Shows that basic is sometimes best (traditional liquid) and these other formats are more for marketing and fads.

This was so good to watch! Thank you so much ❤

Great video! Nice to know the pros and cons to be informed when I used a stick. Thank you!

oh my god, i was trying to find info about sunsticks on your website a couple days ago but didnt find much. thanks for that video!!

Thank you! I use a mineral sunscreen stick for my eyelids, for exactly the reasons you mentioned: because they don't sting and stay in place really well. I've always used extra swipes because I suspected it was necessary for full coverage, and it's nice (although disappointing) to have that confirmed.

Eye-opening... your thorough demonstrations just set you apart from other influencers and I always get more wisdom from you in my skincare decisions (that sunstick won’t be for me)... I literally will remove it from my cart now since I was just contemplating trying it.😅

Really interesting! I work outdoors a lot, and prefer a first coat of lotion before I get my hands dirty then sprays or sticks after. This *definitely* makes me more suspicious of my spray-on sunscreens though, would love to see a similar breakdown.

This is so amazingly helpful!!! Thanks so much Michelle!!

My main issue with sticks has always been that repeatedly swiping a product over your face seems unhygienic and would lead to breakouts, but this was really enlightening to some serious shortfalls I hadn't even considered. As a super pale redhead I do not take risks with my sun protection. I'm glad I didn't jump on the hype train over sunscreen sticks!

I love your videos and the science-based approach you take to your content. It’s so refreshing!

Crazy how I just bought a sun stick yesterday! Your videos are on point, as always

I love ur channel sm!!! It really is one of my favorites lately and i find that every video u make is so in depth and interesting

Thank you!! I appreciate all the knowledge and research! You make everything very understandable and you aren't condescending (unlike some other creators). I never feel stupid and I always learn when I watch you! Thanks again and many blessings! 💖💖💖

Woah! So interesting! 🤔 Thanks for doing the research and sharing in such an easy way to understand! I totally appreciate your videos 🥰

I appreciate your diligence with this. It’s unbelievably thorough and digestible. I struggle with believing the efficacy of spf sticks, and this confirms it. I’m considering using more physical deterrents to compound the effects of protection. I’d be happy to see your takes and investigations on hats vs. balaclavas vs. masks and other spf accessories as well. I hope that’s not too out of scope since I know your research is more beauty based. Thank you!

I have always wanted an in depth explanation on sunscreen sticks. I have not found anything that blows my mind. Great video and I really appreciate it. However, could you please do a video on what liquid sunscreens you suggest for reapplication especially over makeup??

So happy you made this video

I've seen people ask about this. I can refer them to this video so thank you.

Thank you for this, Michelle! I was contemplating whether to go ahead and check out the sunsticks Ive been eyeing for months. Sticking to lotion forever!

Wow this is so eye opening! Thank you for sharing your knowledge 💜

So much depth to this video! Thank you 😊

Love this video, thank you, Michelle!

Thanks for the info, Michelle. Appreciate it.

Whoa this is news to me, thank you for your research and review into this!

You make the most quality content!!!

Thank you LM for doing the deep dive for us since most of us don’t have UV lights or weigh our SPF before applying🤪 Education is everything❣

Omg what impeccable timing! I’m going on a tropical vacay next week and was just searching for a stick to carry on with me so I have it at all times. 👒🏝️

My mom and I have recently gotten into sunsticks. Thanks to your videos, I know we don't use enough to get the full 50 SPF so I only use it to top up during the day or if I'm not getting much sun exposure. My mom uses sunsticks as her main SPF now but the alternative for her was not wearing any as she doesn't like the feeling of applying sunscreen.

This makes so much sense. I hate the feel of sunscreen/lotion on my hands so a stick theoretically would be perfect. But I always burned when I used a stick.

Great video! Extremely well made.

This was amazing! So thorough, subscribed!

Wow, thank you so much for this! I’ve been using sticks for years as a top-up or quick sunscreen go-to and I usually only do 1-2 swipes 🙈

This is so helpful, sticks are becoming popular right now, most of my local stores are bringing them but I wasn't sure about them, as someone who is pale as a paper and I have old sunspots for not using sunscreen, I wasn't sure about the sunstick, now I know that is better to not buy them because I need a lot of protection, so, thanks for your video and help

That is such an informative and nerdy video!!

Woow I have put three in my shopping basket and I am so glad with this video. Always ready for ur recommendations love from uk 🇬🇧

Excellent video- thanks Michelle!

I've been wondering about this! I have the abib stick, and I really love it, it glides on my skin so easily! But it's 22g I believe, and instinctively I knew I wasn't putting on the same amount as I would've with a lotion. I figured that it was a different and "denser" formulation of sunscreen for it to give the same amount of coverage with less product going on the skin, but wow, I never realized how much I'd actually have to use. Great methods and explanation in this video, your content is always top tier!

This is really helpful! I have been complementing on getting a sunscreen stick but my biggest worry is exactly what you went over 😊

I purchased two sunscreen sticks from European sunscreen brands a while ago to use as touch-up on-the-go sunscreens. Neither of them worked very well. Besides not being able to apply enough product, one of the sticks kept getting stuck in the cap and the other was a solid clear gel stick that kept breaking apart during application. They were both pretty expensive for the small amount of product you get compared to the brands full size liquid sunscreens. I won't be purchasing any sticks again, the convenience is a nice idea but they're just not usable.

This was an excellent video, so helpful and informative.

I felt like you were 👌🏽this close to running stats and talking about statistical significance 😂 This was great! Thank you

I love your channel and appreciate you so much! It’s like you read my mind every time with the questions I have about sun protection (I’m a huge sunscreen nerd) and I appreciate the written and video format, the scientific approach, experiment, and conclusion. Thank you!

This video really is WOW!! 🙌🏼 thank you so much 🔥

Will definitely use the stick for re-application only... Thank you for another informative vide.

Thank you so much for this. It is so helpful information.

Love that research quality

immediately subscribed. Such good content!

I feel sunsticks are good for those who are mostly indoors but lotion will definitely be better for those who are outdoors mostof the time. Thanks for this video. Ive always wondered how good it reallyis but this has convinced me to not ever get sunsticks just because i need the maximum sun protection

Ma'am, Thanks a lot for this topic! U saved our money by explaining ... I dream, one day our labmuffin beauty will be the top skincare chanel 💌🔥

Thank you so much for this video. I was thinking about getting a sunscreen stick, but wasn't sure how much I should apply or how to measure it.

I was just thinking about buying one, this is a godsend!

i use the sun stick mainly to retouch my protection when i’m outside but for the main protection the lotion form will always be the best one

This video is so good I hope you also do this on the sun spray❤

Thank you for this informative video! Now I'm really curious about sun cushions. Would love to see those being tested. I struggle to reapply sunscreen...

Loved the vid! one like this but with cushion compact sunscreens would be fire 🔥

So informative! Could you review the Beauty of Joseon and Isntree sun sticks as well. Those two are my most used.

I did enjoy this deep dive Thank you very much 💚

Okay, I am so glad that I'm using a lotion first and just stick to top off later. Are you super group before my makeup and then the toboco after two hours. It's soooo silky

This is interesting. I have the shiseido stick. Before that, I had your regular sunscreen. I don't think I'll be repurchasing a stick after seeing your video. This helped me a lot. Thank you 😊.

I always appreciate your effort to explain these things in a easy to understand way. I trust your advice because you explain your methods and sources. I like in Australia and don’t like the feel of most sun locations on my hands… I’m fine when I can wash it off at the end of application. I find sticks are great for covering the backs of my hands, especially when driving and there’s a heap of direct sunlight beaming at me through the windscreen. Thank you 🙏🏻… I at least now know they do offer some protection and are better than nothing. I’ll make sure to reapply more frequently ;)

Thank you so much for a well thought out and detailed video ,I've always wondered how effective sunscreens are when exposed to cold temperatures or like getting sunscreens in the mail under extreme temperatures outside in the mail box , I would love it if you did a video on this.

I love seeing how you show all the statistics

This was so helpful!

I’ve been using AHC Masters sunstick around my eyes because it has new gen filters, is water resistant, and doesn’t affect my eyeshadow. Before that, nothing 👀😬. Yes, something’s better than nothing. I feel comfortable applying a base layer with lotion in the morning and topping off with the sunstick. I’ve also noticed a positive change since using a sunstick on the backs of my hands for the last month. I find it’s just been easier and more convenient to stay consistent with it.

Thank you I love it!❤