Centella sunscreen sticks: how to choose and use one

What should you look for on the label?

These application rules are general guidance for sunscreen sticks, not directions for one particular centella formula. Read the exact stick's label before buying or using it, especially if you are buying a sunscreen from another country: sunscreen regulation and product directions differ between markets. Choose by the protection label rather than the centella headline, because a product name is not a particularly thorough instruction manual.3

A higher SPF does not buy a proportionally longer stay in the sun. SPF measures protection against a quantity of UV exposure, not a number of hours. Sun intensity changes with the time of day and location, so an SPF number cannot replace reapplication or other sun protection.3

How do you apply a centella sunscreen stick?

1. 1Apply sunscreen before going outdoors. Allow about 15 minutes before sun exposure, and follow the product's directions.
2. 2Cover every area of exposed skin. Include the face, neck, ears, backs of the hands and tops of the feet rather than stopping at the cheeks.
3. 3Move the stick back and forth over each area for four passes. Work across the exposed skin so you do not leave gaps.
4. 4Rub the sunscreen in afterwards to create an even layer of coverage.
5. 5Reapply every two hours while outdoors, and immediately after swimming or sweating. Reapply after towel drying or when sunscreen has rubbed off.

Sticks are useful for the skin under the eyes and the backs of the hands, but keep sunscreen out of the eyes and mouth. For lips, use a lip balm with SPF 30 or higher. If you have thinning hair, protect the exposed scalp with sunscreen or a wide brimmed hat. Ask someone to help cover areas you cannot comfortably reach.235

A light coating is not enough: applying sunscreen too thinly reduces its protection. For stick application, use the four pass method and rub it in rather than assuming one quick swipe finishes the job. For prolonged sun exposure, UK guidance adds an initial application 30 minutes before going out and another just before leaving.24

When should you use it?

Use sunscreen before going outside, including on cloudy days and in winter. Protection is relevant to a neighborhood walk as well as a holiday. Sunburn commonly follows using too little sunscreen, failing to reapply or using an expired product. If you suspect existing sun damage, a dermatologist can examine your skin and discuss suitable care.5

Can you use it for swimming or exercise?

Check for water resistance on the exact stick rather than assuming the stick format provides it. On US labels, water resistance is stated as 40 or 80 minutes of protection while swimming or sweating. No sunscreen is waterproof, and water resistance does not remove the need to reapply. Reapply straight after leaving the water and after towel drying, sweating or rubbing the sunscreen off.46

What should you expect from it?

Sunscreen helps prevent sunburn, and broad spectrum protection also helps reduce the risks of skin cancer and early skin aging caused by the sun. No sunscreen completely blocks UV radiation. Combine your stick with shade, protective clothing, a hat and sunglasses. A stick belongs in a sun protection plan, not at the head of a one product empire.6

Who needs extra care?

People of every skin color need sun protection. Take extra care if you have pale skin, light hair, a history of skin cancer or a family member who has had skin cancer. If you take medicines, ask your health care professional about sun precautions because some medicines increase sun sensitivity. The word centella alone is not a basis for choosing a formula for sensitive skin; assess the exact product rather than treating the name as a suitability promise.6

For babies younger than six months, keep them out of direct sunlight and ask a doctor before applying sunscreen. For older children, follow the sunscreen label and combine sunscreen with clothing and shade.34

How should you store the stick?

Protect sunscreen from excessive heat and direct sunlight. Keep the container in the shade or wrap it in a towel during long periods outside. Discard expired sunscreen. For a US sunscreen without an expiry date, discard it three years after purchase; if you do not know how old it is, replace it.3

What if you still get sunburned?

Stay out of the sun until all redness has gone. Cool sore skin with cool water or a cool bath or shower. Seek medical help if you feel unwell or your skin swells badly or blisters.4