Do sunscreen sticks work? The science

[@LabMuffinBeautyScience]

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 (kzbin.info/www/bejne/oKiQan2mnciSma8). 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: kzbin.info/www/bejne/oKiQan2mnciSma8 SPF powders, "pea-sized" sunscreen amounts: kzbin.info/www/bejne/n3Wsn5tpp9qFsKs 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.

[@ace.of.space.]

thanks for clarifying! my first thought was about concentration affecting this, but I forgot about how SPF is tested.

[@misslazybones]

Good information! Maybe pin this comment so it appears at the top of the comment section?

[@Daryakie]

Hey can you please try testing SUN MISTS? Pleaaaseeee❤️

[@HH-kv3gv]

im ready for spf 130-150 sunsticks in the future lol

[@asalwaysashntir]

Do you mind doing spf sprays?

[@devgh742]

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!

[@LabMuffinBeautyScience]

Thank you! 🥰

[@abeach5420]

Hiya if I may share...if there is ONE channel to follow I must say Michelle's is that one. I have academics in healthcare and am stickler for science, facts, and peer reviewed data. Miss Michelle provides top tier content. I rec. even total strangers in the drugstores and Sephora etc to her channel.

[@M33838]

The girl in the video looks 30 withouth the dark makeup under her eyes, and after kind of 45 48. I prefer her without the heavy makeup 4:02 younger 6:32 older

[@Siberius-]

@@M33838 - Booo. Also I don't think that's undereye shadow makeup. She just has "dark circles" under her eyes.

[@semantick]

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

[@Mara2210]

Me too... 😪

[@Storm78727]

Wide brim hat helps me lots

[@semantick]

@@Storm78727thank you, I think you have inspired me. I should commit time to finding a proper UV-blocking hat, I think it will help my conscience🙂

[@imawakemymindisalive13]

i’m still in high school and nobody, and i mean nobody, wears sunscreen here. it’s california, everyone seems to think they’re immune to it. i got shit last year for having slight whitecast some days and they thought the sunscreen thing was weird. imagine how id be treated if i was reapplying sunscreen on my face throughout the day 💀. i feel like reapplying just isn’t worth it for me. also we spend 95% of school in classrooms out of the sun

[@ThankYouVeryBlush]

@@imawakemymindisalive13 Listen, you keep doing you. You're taking care of yourself, and believe me, it will show in the long run when all other students who didn't wear sunscreen will be complaining about premature aging, sun spots, etc and you'll be rocking your glowy youthful skin 💜 About the whitecast and reapplying it, try ordering k-beauty sunscreens which are lightyears ahead in terms of being cosmetically elegant.

[@kralia007]

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.

[@anja5407]

Thank you so much for commenting this. I‘ve been wondering if I‘m the only one feeling stressed and worried about finding a good SPF and using enough of it. I think I‘ll stick to just using a comfortable amount as well. It’s got to a point where worrying about SPF is negatively affecting my mental health because I constantly feel anxious about not having 100% coverage and making “SPF mistakes“.

[@netizenrealness]

as someone with oily skin i definitely get it. however, there are definitely oil-free sunscreens that ive liked like the one from neutrogena. don't give up!❤

[@teaeves566]

ME TOO. That two fingers rule is way too much for me. I can’t get makeup to apply well over that which leads to a really oily/pilling face.

[@Anika6.91]

Especially true if the uv-index doesn't get that high where you are in the world. Important topic but not as necessary all the time in every place around the world imo

[@happy-self]

Try "Laroche posay anti-shine", it is so matte. skipping moisterizer also help

[@faceonnailsdonehairdid]

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.

[@LabMuffinBeautyScience]

I knew it wasn't enough, but I didn't think it would be this low? I've used it as my only sunscreen before so it was very eye-opening for me too 😢

[@cmntr_]

Pun intended? 😂

[@Pandulse123]

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.

[@katydid5088]

The main thing with sunscreen is remembering something is better than nothing and there are other ways to be proactive (the slip slap slop, of shades, an umbrella, and then sunscreen can't be emphasized enough.) I worked very out doorsy jobs for years and haven't had issues with skin aging or melanoma just by using decent daily sunscreen applications. (Realistically I only fully reapplied a lotion twice per day on a work day) otherwise I wore hats,used spray spf in my budget usually a bulk order of banana boat, and sun buffs or long but loose upf clothing like it was my religion. Go with the highest spf you can stand and afford, and then pull in everything else you can use including uv films,shades, or simply keeping a bottle or powder compact with spf available if you can. It's not always about perfect application but trying to be consistent with all the other habits that really make a difference. Most people in office jobs don't really need to reapply as regularly unless they're outdoors for more than a few minutes. There's a lot to disagree with about Islamic practices surrounding dress but the actual historical reasons for wearing loose skin covering garments in a time before sunscreen and an indoor environment as the primary work environment makes sense.

[@mahvishirfan478]

@@katydid5088dressing islamically has been a miracle for my skin. It is so healthy.

[@yoobeepedmeinthebeep]

if you reapply a coat every 1-2 hours or before going outside, and seek shade as much as possible i cant see why your main option couldnt be sticks

[@karatalksaboutstuff7333]

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.

[@karatalksaboutstuff7333]

@@flowerpot3787 Maybe work on your reading comprehension skills instead of judging people obsessively? She's not getting outside for long **on school days in the winter,** which is totally normal where I live. It's not because I'm worried about her skin, it's because the weather is awful. I very clearly explained that we DO get out for longer when we can. Besides, what's with the either/or? In what world does going outside mean I DON'T have to protect the skin of an eczema-prone redhead with tons of skin cancer in her family? Pretty sure she's gonna grow up to resent me if I don't at least attempt to protect her from the endless, painful, and expensive cycle of biopsies, excisions, and chemotherapy creams that several of her loved ones endure. But, hey, you think it's cool to snark at random moms on the internet. Clearly you're very mature and emotionally stable, so everyone should totally take your parenting advice, right?😐

[@shineseeker7]

​@@flowerpot3787 have fun with your skin cancer 😘

[@noodlepoodlegirl]

@@flowerpot3787 Yeah, good moms can focus on fun AND being healthy. That was such a rude and self-hating comment.

[@noodlepoodlegirl]

I loved your comment, and am going to check out Babo. I've noticed that in being a really good mom, sometimes others who aren't quite as diligent like to put me down, as if I'm too much. It's their insecurity after seeing me supermom, so I don't worry. You're doing great!

[@user-sg4ov7ng4h]

Last sentence is 100% the reason people don't put sunscreen

[@sovrappensiero1]

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

[@Oelmiene]

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 🙏

[@LabMuffinBeautyScience]

Me too, I was always a bit light on the passes... 😅

[@franciscolodix1214]

If you live in Europe many brands from L'Oréal with Netlock technology ( La Roche Posay, Garnier, Vichy, etc ) don't sting around the eyes. I would recommend to try them.

[@lucac8593]

For me the japanese sunscreen Skin Aqua doesn't sting around the eyes, might work for u too :)

[@HereDiianas]

@Francisco lodix12 I have extremely sensitive eyes, I am in France and all the sunscreens from those brands and more stung my eyes badly. I even made a video explaining why I hate French sunscreens. Since I am in France I have tried pretty much all French brands. I have way more luck with Asian sunscreens from Kore or Japan. I would say 99% of European sting my eyes but only 20% of Asian sunscreens do

[@Account-xm6vj]

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!

[@11maxfan]

I agree that it is great to have an objective pov, and such an analytical interpretation. I disagree on the ashy point however. I find that information incredibly useful as a person with dark skin. I don't really care if it is the best, most effective, clinically backed sunscreen in the world if it makes me look like Casper the ghost.

[@oishikaray2767]

@@11maxfan❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤

[@kjalight]

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).

[@elaineoh3984]

Same! I never get the apply over makeup claim. First and last time I tried it, the foundation smeared all over the stick surface.

[@Thufferinthuckotash]

Do you mind telling us what brand of translucent powder you use? Thanks ❤

[@kjalight]

@@Thufferinthuckotash I love a couple actually, since translucent powder is my favorite makeup step because I feel like it really hides pores and creates a soft focus effect on the skin without looking like you have anything on (I also like using finishing powder sometimes after it, but only at night because the shimmer is way more noticeable during the day). My favorites overall would be the Hourglass Veil Translucent Setting Powder for loose powders (which is beautiful, but very expensive and I haven’t repurchased since my friend took my last one), both of the No7 pressed powders that are supposed to be Charlotte Tilbury dupes (I like them better actually, the one for under eyes and all over is the Lift and Luminate, while the Perfect Light is very nice for setting the face, but both can be used everywhere). Those are my favorite translucent powders, though I’ve heard great things about the Maybelline Fit Me loose powder and the NYX and Essence Pressed Powders. If I do want some coverage then I’ll use a lightly tinted powder or a foundation powder and use a huge loose setting brush to tap it into my skin to just set the sunscreen, which creates a very thin layer of natural looking coverage that does get moved around during reapplication, but since it’s so little products you can really smooth it back into looking like a slightly tinted moisturizer then set over top again with the same tinted or translucent powder without it looking crazy like whenever I use a full amount of powder foundation or any liquid/cream ones. I love the old Make Up For Ever powder foundation for this, but people seem to really love the reformulated new one better, and it now has longer lasting and water/sweat resistance. It’s mostly about technique using these powders, like I can’t buff and swirl my brush around my face without disturbing the sunscreen, so I use a pressing motion with varying sized brushes depending on what how much product I want on the skin, and I always use a stippling/pouncing/patting motion to press the product evenly over top without disturbing any of the sunscreen or making its barrier start to pill up and look wired. Hope you find a powder you like.

[@Thufferinthuckotash]

@@kjalight thank you for taking the time out to write such a detailed comment!

[@imawakemymindisalive13]

@@elaineoh3984 same, my concealer tries to pill and peel and cake enough as it is, i don’t need to go rubbing it. besides, the makeup that i wear mostly is only highlighter, mascara, and eyeliner. the highlighter might be ok but my eyeliner would make me a raccoon and id stick my eyelashes together.

[@Sarah-re7cg]

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

[@LabMuffinBeautyScience]

Thank you! 🥰

[@TsubataLately]

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.

[@missbeaussie]

Agreed. It feels like the spf version of greenwashing

[@strazki5232]

Sunscreen powders don’t work well too

[@tdrmn]

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.

[@mjlim6610]

Oooh that's a good use for them - I wash my hands quite frequently as well

[@ruthie_rosario]

Good idea. Why didn’t I think of this? Thank you 😊

[@JYNaRa2fly]

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.

[@gracied.3599]

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

[@LabMuffinBeautyScience]

Thank you so much! 🥰

[@abeach5420]

Absolutely I refer so many to her channel.

[@daniellabirch2600]

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.

[@kassandraortiz8483]

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

[@TsubataLately]

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. 🔬

[@omyara1591]

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

[@imfinereally]

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

[@satutoivonen9679]

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.

[@skinbysandy]

literally me too 😢😢

[@ananastea]

have you tried mini-sized sprays?

[@somebadluck5343]

I just decanted my sunscreens in 5-10ml vacuum pump bottles I can just pop in a small bag or carry in my pocket.

[@user-sr6ui7ph1g]

What is the difference between application and re application? Wouldn’t you still need a lot of swipes for reapplication to fully protect?

[@asalwaysashntir]

Double it with a SPF mist.

[@kyrakytana]

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.

[@elizabethtangora4353]

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.

[@cutiefox6455]

+++

[@camcat26]

Yeah, sprays have a lot of shortfalls. I find them to be impractical. My only experience with stick sunscreens was in college when a lab I was taking used an instrument with UV and the professor found sticks less messy

[@Storm78727]

My husband uses only spray and never burns wirh spray one. If he does not use he burns badly( he is white american). He uses coppertone. I use my baby neutrogena one with my kid

[@B0WIETVC15]

Unsolicited suggestion: gloves and wash in sun protection to your clothes with Sunguard.

[@mollyapteros]

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!

[@WallFlower08]

That’s why you clean it afterwards…

[@Hiba-iu9ex]

​@@WallFlower08 How do you clean it?

[@angelashinner]

@@WallFlower08u clean it? 💀

[@italkalotofshit]

@@Hiba-iu9exyou wipe it off!! Duh

[@N0R4-fina]

​@Hiba-iu9ex u wipe the top layer with a tissue and/or clean it with antibacterial spray

[@whitepaper5241]

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.

[@janelj1840]

Love your in depth reviews. Thank you so much!

[@LabMuffinBeautyScience]

Glad you liked it!

[@Parrot5884]

This video could not have come at a better time! I've been wearing daily makeup more often recently and was considering buying the Tocobo stick for reapplication. After seeing this, I'm almost certain that I will not be conscientious enough for a stick to be well suited to me lol. I can't speak for everyone else, but I'd be super interested in a video like this specifically around how the different recommended forms of sunscreen reapplication over makeup perform. You hear about powders, about patting SPF on with a dedicated sponge, etc. but I (personally) have yet to see a demonstration that reveals just how well these work in terms of protection. Does the fact that you already applied sunscreen under makeup make a difference? How do you go about ensuring adequate application when you're on the go? A lot of questions are left unanswered by brands that produce these products, which is understandable to a degree, but definitely leaves the consumer feeling like one is taking a shot in the dark.

[@Justasmallmushroom]

You make a lot of valid points,I've wondered all this too and other stuff that might impact sunscreens effectiveness like when it gets shipped off in a really cold or hot vehicle for a day or so

[@ashitapanda153]

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

[@maximummax69]

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

[@SamanthaShelley]

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 🙈

[@Kami_03]

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??

[@demial4]

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

[@Danaatjebananaatje]

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

[@LabMuffinBeautyScience]

Happy to hear this was useful!

[@Vanessa-iq3vt]

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!

[@xnoelle25]

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.

[@kristin7665]

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

[@ericatucker2683]

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

[@loverofawesomeness1]

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.

[@katec.4361]

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.

[@LabMuffinBeautyScience]

Those are two of the main places I think I'll keep applying sunscreen stick too for everyday wear - also maybe my chest, I'm terrible at remembering to put on lotion before I get dressed and there isn't enough time to undress!

[@sarahcarroll8206]

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.

[@bandana_rathore]

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

[@magikarps]

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

[@Jewellianna]

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

[@rabiaaylmazdr7533]

When I purchased sunscreen sticks I thought I'd hate them but no! I loved them because theyre always in my pocket for re application. I keep the track of my sunscreen usage. For shiseido sunscreen stick : 1 shiseido spf 30 sunscreen stick lasts me 22 days. On average I re-apply 4-5 times a day. Sometimes through my graph I see there are 7-8-10x a day aswel : D Now I am using La Roche Posay Spf 50 shaka fluid one and my average usage per day is 2. And this less usage makes the bottle last 1+ month. Tho it gives less SPF , we cannot deny that it doubles / triples my re-application. Very handy.

[@davidjosevargas]

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

[@C03al]

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.😅

[@therightkindofpen]

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

[@blackrosenuk]

Legit question: If you apply sunscreen, wait, and apply makeup with a damp sponge, how much (if any) does the damp sponge affect the sunscreen (vs., say, a dry sponge/brush)? There's also a recent trend I've seen where ppl squeeze out a tinted moisturizer into water & then take the back of a makeup brush to get it out, then applying the wet tinted moisturizer directly onto the face. The effect is a very nice look, but, how does this affect sunscreen???

[@anna_med]

I think the sticks would work well on my feet in the summer. I usually wear long trousers with sandals, so my feet are exposed, and I hate using lotion on my feet, especially mid-day (30-35 C + 70-80% humidity for 3 months - it's not fun). This might be a good solution for everyday touchups on the go. I always had black and white stripes on my feet by the end of the summer simply by forgetting to re-apply SPF there. And I hate the summer sun, I always do my best to avoid it at all costs.

[@ftssh]

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

[@knowledgehunter_]

Also rubbing for 4 minutes, stretching your skin that much everyday isn't good. Sunscreen lotion/cream is best.. sunscreen stick/sunscreen powder may be for some touch up but definitely not for high spf. I even show your spf powder video to all my friends... You literally opened up their eyes. Hands down, you are the best teacher on KZbin....

[@cschroder9830]

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.

[@jenn100248]

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

[@LabMuffinBeautyScience]

It was news to me too! Glad you found it useful 😊

[@crimbleland]

You make the most quality content!!!

[@LisaNix2]

Excellent video- thanks Michelle!

[@LabMuffinBeautyScience]

Thank you!

[@JelenaP991]

I think brand should put this information on packaging because many people don't know how much to apply

[@lavayuki]

I only use these on my neck and chest, as I don't like the waxy nature on my face, and I feel like because you are rubbing them again over the same area, I feel like contamination can lead to acne. I love them for my neck and chest though, as then i'm not getting sunscreen all over my clothes or collars. I love Abib, Shiseido and Scinic sticks so far.

[@Sk8rToon]

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.

[@laurakirwan999]

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

[@elizabethevelyn7125]

Thanks for this video! I basically only use sticks for touch-ups on road trips, and I'm interested in the sticks you used for this experiment. Tangentially: do you find mask-wearing compromises sunscreen efficacy (through pulling on areas of the skin)? I'd be interested to see how much of an SPF is still visible in a UV camera after removing a mask. I try to touch up in the car if I've been out and about in a mask, but sometimes I forget.

[@LabMuffinBeautyScience]

That's a good question, I should test that out! I wear a 3M Aura though so I'm guessing it'll be pretty much worst case scenario...

[@elizabethevelyn7125]

@@LabMuffinBeautyScience it's that comfy nose bridge, it absorbs all the sunscreen 😆 I use mostly bifold kf94s, which are veryyy tight to my face so I imagine it's pretty bad

[@mxandrew]

This video is interesting to watch. When I used a sunscreen stick, I bought a mineral formula and applied until there was a visible white cast all over my face and neck. It was only when I “rubbed it in” that I spread it out and the white cast mostly disappeared but was still somewhat visible. I was working outside in direct sun and only used the stick on my face which I known is more sensitive than the rest of my body. I only used it for about 12-15 applications in the entire stick, which I feel js similar to other sunscreen products I use. I use much more sunscreen than other people I know and while I now tan every summer, I haven’t burned in years. I had some really bad burns when I was younger and now I’m religious about reapplication.

[@taratea9211]

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

[@franciscolodix1214]

Thanks, I always had my doubts about sticks and it is inevitable to miss spots using them in my opinion. So I never used them. Do you know if sticks get their SPF tested the same way as a lotion does? Like do they weigh the amount of the product and then rub it in? It sounds weird. Maybe they measure it differently and you don't need 2mg/cm^2. They are mostly lipids so their density is lower than a conventional lotion spf.

[@LabMuffinBeautyScience]

All SPF products get tested the same way, even powders and aerosols: kzbin.info/www/bejne/oKiQan2mnciSma8

[@Jen_Agnes]

I usually use Sunscreen stick around the eye area. (I used to use a lip balm with SPF before Sunscreen sticks were available in India... I know, I'm crazy) PS- I'm from India (central) and the sun here is brutal with a very dry n hot climate. Sweat+ Sunscreen (lotion) in eye = SEVERE IRRITATION

[@lipstickzombie4981]

Considering some TikTok vids have called using a lip balm with sunscreen as a facial sunscreen as a hack you were ahead of the curve.

[@Jen_Agnes]

@@lipstickzombie4981 I'm so glad tiktok is banned in my country 🤣

[@imawakemymindisalive13]

i feel that, after i exercise in the summer my eyes will just be stinging and streaming with tears and the sunscreen won’t come out 😭

[@HereDiianas]

Just wondering why don't you use sunglasses instead ???

[@Jen_Agnes]

@@HereDiianas Very good question... Reasons - glasses wearer, hate contacts. Can use powered sunglasses but will still have to carry my regular glasses. Can get those Polaroid eyeglasses but it will turn dark mostly because of extreme sunrays (I live in central India, below the Tropic of Cancer). Also I feel sunglasses will still let in a lot of UV rays but I do understand there's no foolproof method whatsoever I did put on my specs (inwards) with my sunglasses (outwards) together for fun... Looked ridiculously funny 🤣

[@thegimpiessocialclub3113]

great information - and very easy to watch. Thank you for the endless content. I appreciate you!

[@hannimustard]

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

[@dollyoo6204]

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!

[@db-gb5xi]

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

[@freespiritdamsel]

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

[@XxQWERTpersonYxX]

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

[@ItsNandaJonas]

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

[@LoveFinance]

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

[@Natalia-yg6uc]

Thanks to the author for the video! A huge amount of work has been done here. However, why doesn't anyone talk about how much product is in a tube? It's literally half of it! If you have to apply THAT amount of sunscreen every time, then this tube will only last a few times. I've been using sunscreen sticks for almost a year now, and yes - it's a great tool when you need to reapply the existing cream sunscreen. But I just don't want to use 2 sticks per 1 month. I'm not that rich + it's just a huge amount of waste that goes to landfills. So I only use it when I really can't wash my hands somewhere and reapply the cream version when going outside. The amount of product is ridiculously low and, for some reason, I haven't seen anyone talking about the size of a tube versus the amount of product inside. Correct me if I am wrong - maybe there is a valid reason for it that I am not aware of.

[@sylviaswayne]

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

[@SebastianSeanCrow]

6:02 I don’t like the sticks cuz you’re putting bacteria and dead skin on them every time them back onto your face. At least with other methods it’s either no contact or you can wash your hands.

[@anienana1575]

I just received my abib sun stick in the mail and now this video popped up 😂 After watching your video I guess this is going in my handbag for touch ups instead of my daily spf. thanks for the video. it's very interesting and informative.

[@debpalm8667]

Thanks for the info, Michelle. Appreciate it.

[@nomnom03]

So happy you made this video

[@c0nst_4nt4]

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!!

[@shivika1000]

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

[@ginny6485]

Great video! Extremely well made.

[@jewelthompson4210]

immediately subscribed. Such good content!

[@Monononono]

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

[@manhac7541]

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 🇬🇧

[@Justin_Osugi]

The video us skeptics have been waiting for. Sticks seem good to reapply, but no one will ever do 10+ swipes. The point of these is convenience.

[@HaHa-lx9yo]

Hey there was this study that came out in reddit that said that otc retinols in the market decompose over time. Can you please make a video on that?

[@Samkornkamon]

This was a really informative and helpful video thank you

[@EmyN]

This was amazing! So thorough, subscribed!

[@Melusu]

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...

[@dessertisland2491]

That is such an informative and nerdy video!!

[@emmabringsthehappy]

Could you please talk more about not mixing physical and chemical sunscreens? All my foundations have zinc oxide and I don’t know if they’re bad to use on top of Asian sunscreens!

[@macarenacabral4258]

Hi! I'm not Michelle, but I could tell you that she does have a few videos on organic and non-organic sunscreens and how they're very commonly used together in formulas. You shouldn't mechanically mix products with your sunscreen, but using one product on top of the other is perfectly fine :)

[@Bunny11344]

@@macarenacabral4258 do u know if I can use my lotion as a base ? I usually gym in the morning and recently got a stick for after the gym just cause it’s easier application?

[@Begining2013]

This was an excellent video, so helpful and informative.

[@asylumgreen1786]

If sticks have less water than lotions, wouldn’t you need to apply less, as long as you were still able to spread it evenly?

[@LabMuffinBeautyScience]

Nope, sunscreens are all tested by the weight dispensed at the start, so the final amounts on my face here were still less than what was used in the SPF test for each stick. It does mean that in theory, you could make an SPF 400 stick that gave you SPF 50 in 4 swipes though!

[@AKbaby89]

Ooo could you also do this for sprays?? I really enjoy using The Habit SPF spray as a touch up over makeup. I don't think I've ever used it as my base SPF, but since I swim a TON in the summer (almost daily) I like to touch up with SPF sprays, but I wonder how much I need to use. I feel like I probably use more than I need to, but I'd love to see a video about spf sprays and how effective they are! Thank you for all you do❤️❤️🙌🙌

[@lippiefie]

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 😊.

[@rahvavaenlane]

yeah but as the stick is so convenient and easy to carry. I mostly didn't use sunscreen at all before, as it was such a mess and hassle, and I forgot until I burnt. now when I put my hand in my pocket and find the stick there I just apply it. yeah it's not perfect and possibly not as good as cream but it's way better than nothing.

[@CityofAngels10]

Same here

[@dawnliphard9591]

Thank you. I didn't even know that there were sunscreen sticks. That being said, I am terribly lax in its use. Now that I am older(60). It's been on my mind more. For me, it is probably a case of some is way better than none at all. I am now really outdoors much.

[@harshal_121]

I JUST LOVE YOUR VIDEOS SM

[@picksleydust4985]

I've watched this previously, but recently got a stick and went back to here to check in. I can comfortably say that my stick is for days when im inside but near a window rather than outside. And considering Im in QLD that's probably not even enough. I love my lotions, but for when I'm working the stick is so convenient that I recon it's better than nothing at all