Is Shiseido Sunscreen Stick Chemical or Physical – A Comprehensive Product Review

Are you looking for a sunscreen that won’t leave a greasy residue on your skin or clothes? Have you heard about Shiseido UV Protective Stick Foundation and wondering if it’s worth the hype? In this article, we will answer some of the most common questions about this sunscreen, and give you our honest opinion about its effectiveness.

Shiseido UV Protective Stick Foundation SPF 37, Fair Ochre - 9g (0.31 oz) -... @ Amazon

Chemical vs Physical Sunscreens: What’s the Difference?

Before we dive into the specifics of Shiseido Sunscreen Stick, let’s first talk about the difference between chemical and physical sunscreens.

Chemical sunscreens work by absorbing UV rays and converting them into heat, while physical sunscreens (also known as mineral sunscreens) create a physical barrier on the skin to reflect UV rays. Chemical sunscreens tend to be more lightweight and easier to apply, while physical sunscreens can be thicker and leave a white cast on the skin.

Is Shiseido Protective Sunscreen Stick Chemical or Physical?

The Shiseido Sunscreen Stick is a combination of both chemical and physical sunscreen. The product contains a mix of chemical UV filters such as octinoxate and physical UV filters such as titanium dioxide and zinc oxide.

The Shiseido website lists the ingredients of the Sunscreen Stick, which includes titanium dioxide and zinc oxide, both of which are physical sunscreens. However, the product also contains octinoxate and other chemical filters that protect against UVB rays. Octinoxate is a commonly used chemical filter in sunscreens.

In addition, the product is labeled as a “broad-spectrum” sunscreen, which means it protects against both UVA and UVB rays. Physical sunscreens, such as titanium dioxide and zinc oxide, are known to provide better protection against UVA rays than chemical sunscreens.

Product Review: Shiseido Sunscreen Stick

Product Claims

According to the Shiseido website, its Sunscreen Stick provides “powerful sun protection in an innovative stick formula that glides on smoothly and invisibly for easy application.” It claims to be water-resistant for up to 80 minutes and suitable for all skin types.

Ingredients

As mentioned, Shiseido Sunscreen Stick contains zinc oxide and titanium dioxide as its active ingredients, both of which are mineral-based sunscreens. It also includes a variety of other ingredients, including:

• Dimethicone: a silicone-based ingredient that helps to smooth and soften the skin
• Synthetic wax: a wax-like substance that helps to create the stick formula
• Stearyl Glycyrrhetinate: a derivative of licorice root that has anti-inflammatory properties and can help soothe the skin

It’s worth noting that this sunscreen does contain fragrance, which may be a concern for some individuals with sensitive skin.

Application

One of the standout features of Shiseido Sunscreen Stick is its application method. The stick formula makes it easy to apply the sunscreen precisely where you want it, without getting your hands messy. It glides on smoothly and blends in easily, leaving no white cast behind.

Effectiveness

In my personal experience, the sunscreen stick has provided me with long-lasting protection even on the hottest and sunniest days. It is easy to apply and doesn’t leave any white residue on my skin, which is a common issue with some other sunscreen products. Additionally, the stick is small and compact, making it convenient to carry in my bag or pocket when I’m on-the-go.

One of the unique features of this sunscreen stick is its water-resistant formula, which is especially important for those who plan to spend time in the water or engage in physical activities. I have used this sunscreen while swimming and it has stayed on my skin without washing off, providing continuous protection against the sun.

Another advantage of this sunscreen stick is its matte finish, which makes it ideal for those with oily or combination skin. Unlike some other sunscreen products that can leave a greasy or shiny residue on the skin, this sunscreen stick dries to a matte finish, leaving my skin looking smooth and even.

While I have not personally experienced any negative side effects from using this sunscreen stick, it’s worth noting that some users have reported a slight white cast on their skin after application. However, this issue can be easily avoided by rubbing the sunscreen stick into the skin thoroughly.

Shiseido UV Protective Stick Foundation SPF 37, Fair Ochre - 9g (0.31 oz) -... @ Amazon

Skin Type Suitability

When it comes to choosing a sunscreen, one of the most important factors to consider is your skin type. The Shiseido Sunscreen Stick SPF is a great option for those with normal to oily skin types. The formula is lightweight and doesn’t leave a greasy or heavy feeling on the skin. However, those with dry skin may find that this formula doesn’t provide enough moisture and may prefer a different option.

It’s also worth noting that this sunscreen stick is non-comedogenic, which means it won’t clog pores. This is especially important for those with oily or acne-prone skin.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

1. Easy to apply: One of the main advantages of the Shiseido Sunscreen Stick is that it is very easy to apply. Unlike traditional sunscreen, you don’t need to worry about getting your hands messy or staining your clothes. Simply apply the stick directly to your skin, and you’re good to go.
2. Long-lasting protection: Another advantage of the Sunscreen is that it provides long-lasting protection. With its SPF rating, this sunscreen stick offers excellent protection against the harmful effects of UV rays. You can be confident that you’re protected for hours on end, no matter what you’re doing.
3. Portable: The Stick is very portable and easy to carry around with you. Whether you’re heading to the beach, going for a hike, or simply spending time outdoors, this sunscreen stick is a convenient option. It’s small enough to fit in your pocket, purse, or backpack, making it easy to take with you wherever you go.
4. Non-greasy: Unlike many other sunscreens, the Shiseido Sunscreen Stick is non-greasy. It won’t leave your skin feeling oily or slick, which is a big plus if you’re prone to breakouts or have oily skin.
5. Water-resistant: Another advantage is that it is water-resistant. Whether you’re swimming, sweating, or just hanging out by the pool, you can be sure that this sunscreen stick will provide excellent protection against the sun’s harmful rays.

Cons:

1. Expensive: One of the biggest drawbacks of the Shiseido Sunscreen Stick is that it is quite expensive. At around $28 per stick, this product is significantly more expensive than many other sunscreens on the market. While it may be worth the investment for some people, others may find it difficult to justify the cost.
2. Not suitable for all skin types: While the product is suitable for most skin types, it may not be the best option for everyone. Some people with very dry or sensitive skin may find that this sunscreen stick is too harsh and irritating. It’s always a good idea to do a patch test before using any new product, especially if you have sensitive skin.
3. Can be difficult to blend: Another potential downside of the Shiseido Sunscreen Stick is that it can be difficult to blend. If you don’t apply it evenly, you may end up with patches of skin that are not adequately protected from the sun. This can be especially problematic if you’re wearing makeup over the sunscreen.
4. Limited coverage: Because the product is in stick form, it can be challenging to apply to larger areas of skin. If you’re looking for a sunscreen that you can use all over your body, this may not be the best option for you. It’s better suited for smaller areas like your face, neck, and hands.
5. Not eco-friendly: Finally, it’s worth noting that the Shiseido Sunscreen Stick is not the most eco-friendly option on the market. The stick itself is not recyclable, and the packaging is made from plastic. If you’re looking for a more sustainable sunscreen option, you may want to consider a different product.

Shiseido UV Protective Stick Foundation SPF 37, Fair Ochre - 9g (0.31 oz) -... @ Amazon

How to Use

Using the Shiseido Sunscreen Stick is easy and convenient. Simply twist up the stick and apply directly to the skin, focusing on areas that are exposed to the sun. You can use this product alone or under makeup.

One thing to keep in mind is that because this is a stick formula, it can be a bit difficult to apply in areas with a lot of hair, such as the scalp or eyebrows. In these cases, it may be better to use a different sunscreen formula or to apply the stick with your fingers.

FAQs

Q1: How long does the Shiseido sunscreen stick last?

A: The longevity of this sunscreen stick will depend on how often you apply it and how much you use. Generally, one stick should last for a few months with regular use.

Q2: How effective are sunscreen sticks?

A: Sunscreen sticks are just as effective as other types of sunscreen, as long as they are used properly and reapplied as needed. The key is to make sure you’re applying enough product and reapplying every two hours or after swimming or sweating.

Q3: Is the Shiseido Sunscreen Stick SPF waterproof?

A: While this sunscreen stick is water-resistant, it’s not completely waterproof. It’s still important to reapply after swimming or sweating.

Q4: Can I use this sunscreen on my face?

A: Yes! This sunscreen stick is great for use on the face and other exposed areas of the body.

Q5: Is the Shiseido Sunscreen Stick SPF suitable for all skin types?

A: While this sunscreen stick is suitable for most skin types, those with very dry skin may find that it doesn’t provide enough moisture. In these cases, it may be better to opt for a different formula.

Overall

The Shiseido Sunscreen Stick is a great option for those looking for a convenient and easy-to-use sunscreen that provides excellent protection against UV rays. Its compact size and mess-free application make it perfect for on-the-go use, while its non-greasy formula ensures that your skin won’t feel weighed down or oily.

Whether you’re headed to the beach, running errands around town, or just spending time outside, this sunscreen stick is a must-have for anyone looking to protect their skin from sun damage. So if you’re in the market for a new sunscreen, the Shiseido Sunscreen Stick is definitely worth a try.

Comparison of SPF sticks to other sunscreen products

Vs. Lotion Sunscreens

First, let’s compare SPF sticks with traditional lotion sunscreens. While lotions are effective, they can be messy and greasy, which makes them less than ideal for outdoor activities. SPF sticks, on the other hand, are easy to apply and leave little to no residue, making them perfect for on-the-go sun protection. They are also less likely to cause breakouts or irritate sensitive skin.

Vs. Sunscreen Sprays

Another popular sunscreen product is the spray. While sprays are also convenient to apply, they can be hard to control and may not provide as much coverage as SPF sticks. Additionally, spray sunscreens can be harmful to inhale and should be applied in a well-ventilated area.

SPF stick effectivesness

In terms of effectiveness, SPF sticks are just as effective as other types of sunscreen products. The key is to ensure that you are applying enough of the product and reapplying as necessary. When it comes to sun protection, it’s also important to choose a product with a high enough SPF level.

Convenience

One advantage of SPF sticks is that they are often formulated with additional skincare benefits, such as antioxidants and moisturizers. This can be especially beneficial for those with dry or aging skin.