Sunscreen sticks: effective when used correctly
UCI Health dermatologist says it’s easier to ensure full coverage with liquid sunscreens
April 19, 2024
Dr. Natasha Mesinkovska is a dermatologist with UCI Health Dermatology Services. She specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of skin disorders, including skin cancer.
Credit: Steve Zylius, UCI
IN THE NEWS: Sunscreen sticks, solid forms of sunscreen that come in twist-up tubes, are popular for their quick, mess-free application.
But is the convenience coming at the expense of adequate sun protection? UCI Health dermatologist Dr. Natasha Mesinkovska tells well + good that the sticks are no competition for liquid sunscreen in one important aspect.
"The recommended amount of sunscreen to use is 2mg per square cm of skin, which equates to approximately a quarter of a teaspoon. While this amount is fairly easy to estimate and visualize using liquid sunscreens, it can be difficult when using a stick sunscreen."
However, Mesinkovska also says the best sunscreen is one that you’ll apply regularly and in sufficient amounts.
Mesinkovska is a dermatologist with UCI Health Dermatology Services. She specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of skin disorders, including skin cancer. Her clinical interests include hair loss, dermatitis and integrative dermatology.
An associate professor and vice chair for clinical research in the Department of Dermatology at UCI School of Medicine, Mesinkovska’s research interests include alopecia and dermatitis. She is the author or co-author of many articles in peer-reviewed publications. In addition, she is an investigator on several current clinical trials involving alopecia, atopic dermatitis, psoriasis and skin laxity.
Read more
