Sunscreen Stick vs Cream: In hot, humid, and sun-heavy India, sunscreen is absolutely necessary, with no ifs and buts. From walking to work to vacationing at the beach, one needs to shield oneself as far as UV rays are concerned to avoid tanning, pigmentation, and premature aging. The big question is whether one should go for sunscreen sticks or cream. We will see which one fares better from an Indian weather point of view.
Creamy sunscreens have been used for a long time. They cover fully, thus ensuring that every square inch of the face and body gets proper attention for protection. Most formulas in creams provide moisturizing, thus being ideal for dry to normal skin types.
But in humid weather conditions in India, they can be too greasy or heavy on oily or acne-prone skin types. Creams run the risk of coming off if frequently reapplied due to heavy sweating or outdoor activities.
Best For: Dry skin, people who work indoors, and application in the winter months.
The stick version of sunscreen is fast gaining popularity, ergonomically designed to be travel-friendly and so easy to throw into a backpack or purse. The application is smooth and leaves no white cast over the skin, with targeted application being perfect for those with busy schedules who need touch-ups when on the go. Most are matte-finish and sweat-resistant, making them a perfect companion for the tropical Indian heat.
That said, the stick does have the disadvantage of being a bit tricky when applying evenly over larger surface areas like arms or legs, so sticks may carry their weight best when used on the face and neck.
Best For: Oily or combination skin types, outdoor activities, and during humid weather.
Experts suggest a combination method: use a cream sunscreen for the base and promptly reapply with a stick. When applying, choose either one with broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher and water-resistant, for sustained protection.
Also Read: Skipping Sunscreen in Monsoon? Here’s How It Damages Your Skin
Both types of sunscreen have their advantages based on varied climate conditions in India. Creams tend to be nourishing, while sticks are practical for reapplication. The real winner is the one you will actually use: consistently and generously, because in the protection of the sun, regularity beats formulation every time.
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