Sunscreen Stick vs. Sunscreen Gel: Which One Suits You Best?
Product photography by Perkin Gotohio / This story is made in partnership with Hello Glow
The Philippines is famous for beautiful beaches, endless summers, and, well, the relentless sun. Living so close to the equator, we Filipinos are blessed with an abundance of sunshine almost year-round. But with great sunshine comes great responsibility—specifically, the responsibility to protect our skin. Sun damage, premature aging, and other skincare woes are all too real for us island dwellers. Luckily, there are so many options for us Filipinos now when it comes to local beauty!
Among the crowd favorites are sunscreen sticks and gels. Two options to consider are the Hello Glow 3-in-1 Lightweight Sun Care Gel SPF 50 (P320) and the Hello Glow Sun Care Stick SPF 60+ PA++ (P395). Both have something unique to offer, and they’re so affordable, too! Let's dive into which sunscreen format might just be your skin's new best friend.
Sunscreen Stick: Convenience on the Go
Pros:
Portability: Sunscreen sticks are compact and easy to carry around, making them perfect for on-the-go applications. Whether you're running errands or on the beach with a tiny tote, they fit snugly in any bag or pocket.
Mess-Free Application: Say goodbye to greasy hands! Sunscreen sticks glide on smoothly without leaving a sticky residue, making them a favorite for quick touch-ups.
Precision: These sticks are ideal for targeted application, such as on the face, around the eyes, and on the lips, ensuring no spot is missed.
Ease of Use: Sunscreen sticks are incredibly user-friendly, especially for children or for reapplication over makeup, as they don't tend to disturb underlying layers.
Cons:
Coverage: Achieving even coverage can be tricky, as it's easy to miss areas or apply unevenly.
Cost-Effectiveness: Typically, sunscreen sticks offer less product compared to liquids or gels, which might not be as economical in the long run.
Formula Thickness: Some may find the consistency too thick or waxy, which could be a deal-breaker for those with oily or acne-prone skin.
Sunscreen Gel: Feather-Light and Refreshing
Pros:
Lightweight Formula: Sunscreen gels boast a lightweight, cooling effect that's a godsend for oily and combination skin types. They absorb quickly, leaving no trace of heaviness or white cast.
Hydrating: Many gel formulations are infused with hydrating ingredients, offering a dose of moisture that doesn't feel greasy or sticky.
Ideal for Acne-Prone Skin: Gels are less likely to clog pores or exacerbate acne, making them a stellar choice for sensitive or breakout-prone skin.
High Protection: Despite their lightweight feel, sunscreen gels can provide broad-spectrum protection just as effectively as their stick counterparts.
Cons:
Reapplication: Gels tend to wear off more quickly, especially if you're sweating or swimming, which then requires frequent reapplication.
Application Time: They require a bit more time to apply and absorb compared to sticks, which might not be ideal when you're in a rush.
Risk of Over-application: It's easy to overdo it with gels, leading to a sticky feel if not applied sparingly.
The Verdict
Choosing between a sunscreen stick and a gel boils down to personal preference and specific needs. If you prioritize convenience and precision, a sunscreen stick might be your best bet. However, if you're after a lightweight, hydrating option that feels invisible on the skin, a sunscreen gel could be the way to go.
Remember, the best sunscreen is the one you'll use consistently. So, whether you lean towards the practicality of a stick or the comfort of a gel, the key is to ensure you're adequately protected whenever you step out into the sun. Stay sun-safe and radiant, my friends!
