EltaMD, Inc UV Stick Broad-Spectrum SPF 50+ Review

EltaMD, Inc UV Stick Broad-Spectrum SPF 50+
5.2
/ 10
Moisturizing
0.3 Humectancy icon Humectancy
10.0 Occlusivity icon Occlusivity
50
SPF icon
SPF
Ingredients

EltaMD, Inc UV Stick Broad-Spectrum SPF 50+ Ingredients

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Full Ingredient List (INCI):

Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Wax, Zinc Oxide, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Cetearyl Nonanoate, Theobroma Cacao (Cocoa) Seed Butter, Butyloctyl Salicylate, Lauryl Laurate, Polyhydroxystearic Acid, Euphorbia Cerifera (Candelilla) Wax, Capryloyl Glycerin/Sebacic Acid Copolymer, Mica, Behenyl Behenate, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter, Oryzanol, Ethyl Ferulate, Polyglyceryl-3 Polyricinoleate, Isostearic Acid, Lecithin, Bisabolol, Tocopherol, Silica
Review

Does EltaMD, Inc UV Stick Broad-Spectrum SPF 50+ Work?

 
According to CreamScan's analysis of the ingredient list, here’s what EltaMD, Inc UV Stick Broad-Spectrum SPF 50+ has to offer:
 
✅ Strong occlusive moisturizing. This exceptionally occlusive moisturizer, ideal for dry and very dry skin, has a moderate moisturizing rating of 5.2 out of 10, impaired by the lack of humectants.
✅ Very high sun protection for prolonged sun exposure, such as spending the day at the beach, hiking, or outdoor sports.

  

Key Benefits of EltaMD, Inc UV Stick Broad-Spectrum SPF 50+

 
These are the key benefits you can expect from using EltaMD, Inc UV Stick Broad-Spectrum SPF 50+:
 

🔵🔵🔵 Exceptionally Rich Moisturizer with the Right Occlusivity for Very Dry Skin

According to CreamScan analysis, EltaMD, Inc UV Stick Broad-Spectrum SPF 50+ is quite moisturizing, with a moisturizing rating of 5.2 out of 10.

Is it more humectant or occlusive? Significantly more occlusive. It has a low Humectancy of 0.3 out of 10 and a maximum Occlusivity of 10 out of 10, primarily due to the high content of Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Wax (est. ≈45.0%), Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride (est. ≈11.0%) and Theobroma Cacao (Cocoa) Seed Butter (est. ≈4.0%).

This type of product, when used as a standalone moisturizer, can deliver an exceptional level of occlusive hydration that is adequate for dry to very skin. The occlusive profile of EltaMD, Inc UV Stick Broad-Spectrum SPF 50+ suggests a rich, thick texture, making it perfectly suited for dry skin.

Please refer to the Ratings section below for details of the moisturizing rating calculation.

☀️☀️☀️ Very High Sun Protection for Prolonged Sun Exposure, All Skin Types, and High-risk Conditions

With an SPF of 50, EltaMD, Inc UV Stick Broad-Spectrum SPF 50+ provides very high sun protection, suitable for intense sun exposure in tropical climates, beach vacations, or high-altitude environments.

This level of SPF blocks 98% or more of UVB rays, offering the highest level of defense against sunburn. Broad-spectrum formulations also provide strong protection against UVA rays, which are responsible for skin aging, pigmentation, and DNA damage.

📌 For optimal protection, choose products labeled broad-spectrum to ensure defense against both UVA rays, which contribute to skin aging and pigmentation, and UVB rays that cause sunburn.

This level of SPF is ideal for all skin types, particularly fair, sensitive, or post-treatment skin (e.g., after laser or chemical procedures). It is also highly recommended for individuals at greater risk of skin cancer.

For extended outdoor activities or water exposure, choose a water-resistant formula and reapply every two hours for maximum effectiveness.

📌 Please note that this is not a complete list of benefits. We are in the process of enhancing our model to incorporate anti-pigmentation, exfoliation and anti-acne ratings.

Things to Be Aware Of: EltaMD, Inc UV Stick Broad-Spectrum SPF 50+

 
CreamScan identified a few things to consider before adding EltaMD, Inc UV Stick Broad-Spectrum SPF 50+ to your skincare routine:
 

⚠️ Best for Very Dry Skin - May Be Too Thick for Other Skin Types

With exceptional occlusivity, this product is optimal for moisturizing dry and very dry skin but may be too thick for other skin types, including normal, and especially combination and oily skin.

If you have oily, combination, or normal skin and are considering purchasing this product for the first time, it might be a good idea to try a sample before buying.

⚠️ Needs to Be Paired with Extra Humectants for Optimal Moisturizing Efficacy

An ideal moisturizer for any skin type should balance the right level of occlusivity (depending on skin type) with a significant amount of humectants, while EltaMD, Inc UV Stick Broad-Spectrum SPF 50+ contains a low level of humectants.

People with dry skin would definitely benefit from adding more humectants to their moisturizing routine beyond what this product offers. If this is your only moisturizer, it may be worth including a humectant-rich product, such as a serum, in your skincare routine.

Pros & Cons of EltaMD, Inc UV Stick Broad-Spectrum SPF 50+

 
Here’s an overview of the pros and cons of EltaMD, Inc UV Stick Broad-Spectrum SPF 50+ to help you decide if it’s the right choice for your skincare routine:
 

🟩 Pros:

Exceptionally rich moisturizer with the right level of occlusivity to moisturize dry to very dry skin
✅ Provides very high sun protection, ideal for intense sun exposure in tropical climates, high-altitude environments, and beach vacations, suitable for all skin types
 

⭕ Cons: 

⚠️ May feel too rich and thick on skin types other than dry
⚠️ Only if used as a standalone moisturizer - needs to be paired with extra humectants for optimal moisturizing efficacy
   

Summary: EltaMD, Inc UV Stick Broad-Spectrum SPF 50+

 
Based on the ingredient list analysis, CreamScan AI suggests that EltaMD, Inc UV Stick Broad-Spectrum SPF 50+
, as a moisturizer, provides an exceptional level of occlusive hydration that is adequate for dry to very skin, delivered in a rich, thick texture.
 
With an SPF of 50, EltaMD, Inc UV Stick Broad-Spectrum SPF 50+ delivers very high sun protection, perfect for intense sun exposure in tropical climates, high-altitude settings, and beach vacations, and suitable for all skin types.
 
That said, there are some things about EltaMD, Inc UV Stick Broad-Spectrum SPF 50+ worth noting.
 
With its high occlusivity, EltaMD, Inc UV Stick Broad-Spectrum SPF 50+ is ideal for dry skin but may feel too thick on other skin types. If you have oily, combination, or normal skin, it’s a good idea to try a sample before purchasing.
 
If you use this product as your only moisturizer in a routine, please note that it contains only a small amount of humectants. Regardless of your skin type, adding extra humectants can enhance optimal moisturizing efficacy. Therefore, it may be worth pairing EltaMD, Inc UV Stick Broad-Spectrum SPF 50+ with a humectant-rich product, such as a serum, in your skincare routine.
 
📌 Fact check. At CreamScan, we are committed to accuracy and fairness. If you spot any errors or something that doesn’t seem right, please click here to let us know. We regularly update the ingredient lists and monitor the latest research on ingredient efficacy to ensure that our information remains as complete and precise as possible. The information provided here is for informational purposes only and does not substitute professional advice. We do not guarantee the efficacy or safety of any product, as individual results may vary.

 

Ingredient Breakdown

Est. % Ingredient Origin Functions
45
22
11
6
4
3
2
1.5
1
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Est. %
Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Wax
Function:
Origin:
Zinc Oxide
Function:
Origin:
Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride
Function:
Origin:
Cetearyl Nonanoate
Function:
Origin:
Theobroma Cacao (Cocoa) Seed Butter
Function:
Origin:
Butyloctyl Salicylate
Function:
Origin:
Lauryl Laurate
Function:
Origin:
Polyhydroxystearic Acid
Function:
Origin:
Euphorbia Cerifera (Candelilla) Wax
Function:
Origin:
Capryloyl Glycerin/Sebacic Acid Copolymer
Function:
Origin:
Mica
Function:
Origin:
Behenyl Behenate
Function:
Origin:
Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter
Function:
Origin:
Oryzanol
Function:
Origin:
Ethyl Ferulate
Function:
Origin:
Polyglyceryl-3 Polyricinoleate
Function:
Origin:
Isostearic Acid
Function:
Origin:
Lecithin
Function:
Origin:
Bisabolol
Function:
Origin:
Tocopherol
Function:
Origin:
Silica
Function:
Origin:

Ratings

All humectants
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
10
All occlusives
61.9
45.0
11.0
4.0
1.0
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
20
Moisturizing rating
5.2
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Raiting
Humectancy All humectants 0.3 10
0.3
0.3
Occlusivity All occlusives 61.9 20
10.0
45.0
11.0
4.0
1.0
0.3
0.3
0.3
Moisturizing rating
5.2
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Humectancy
0.3
All humectants 0.3 10
0.3
All humectants
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
10
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Occlusivity
45
11
4
1
0.3
0.3
0.3
All occlusives 61.9 20
10.0
All occlusives
61.9
45.0
11.0
4.0
1.0
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
20
Ingredient
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
when present at, %
in this formula est. %
Rating
None
Total
0
None
Anti-wrinkle rating
0
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark
Rich in Antioxidants
0.3
0.3
0.3
All antioxidants 0.9 3 No
All antioxidants
0.9
Oryzanol
0.3
Ethyl Ferulate
0.3
Tocopherol
0.3
Benchmark
3
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark
Rich in Soothing
0.3
All soothing 0.3 5 No
All soothing
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
5

Ingredients explained

Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Wax
Est. %45
Function
Origin
Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed WaxA solid wax obtained during the refining of crude sunflower oil. The majority of the wax comes from the shells, or hulls, of the sunflower seeds. It is used in skincare as an emollient and occlusive moisturizer, helping to prevent water loss from the skin.
Zinc Oxide
Est. %22
Function
Origin
Zinc OxideA white mineral powder mainly used in skincare as a physical sunscreen. It protects against UVA light that leads to visible signs of aging, including wrinkles and fine lines. Zinc oxide can also be used as a colorant to enhance the whiteness of a product.
Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride
Est. %11
Function
Origin
Caprylic/Capric TriglycerideA natural occlusive moisturizing and emollient ingredient, it is a blend of glycerin and two fatty acids, caprylic and capric acid. It creates an oil-based protective layer on the skin, thereby preventing water loss.
Cetearyl Nonanoate
Est. %6
Function
Origin
Cetearyl Nonanoate
Theobroma Cacao (Cocoa) Seed Butter
Est. %4
Function
Origin
Theobroma Cacao (Cocoa) Seed ButterAlso known as cocoa seed butter, it is a popular emollient and occlusive moisturizer. Skincare products with cocoa butter as their main ingredient have a sweet, chocolatey scent. Cocoa butter is listed as a common comedogenic ingredient by acne.org.
Butyloctyl Salicylate
Est. %3
Function
Origin
Butyloctyl SalicylateA synthetic emollient and solvent. It is primarily used as a carrier oil to disperse minerals in, including pigments and sunscreen minerals. It can also absorb UV light, thus boosting the SPF of sunscreen products.
Lauryl Laurate
Est. %2
Function
Origin
Lauryl LaurateLauryl laurate is an ester of lauryl alcohol and lauric acid. It is used in skincare products as an emollient and also helps to stabilize the emulsions in creams and lotions (which makes them a bit more opaque).
Polyhydroxystearic Acid
Est. %1.5
Function
Origin
Polyhydroxystearic AcidA soft and malleable amber wax naturally derived from vegetable sources. It allows minerals to be very finely dispersed, which can improve SPF, decrease the white cast in sunscreens, and increase the color expression in pigmented products.
Euphorbia Cerifera (Candelilla) Wax
Est. %1
Function
Origin
Euphorbia Cerifera (Candelilla) WaxA thick wax obtained from the stems of the Candelilla, or wax plant that is native to Mexico and the southern USA. Its stems are covered in wax to protect the plant from water loss. It is an occlusive moisturizing and emollient ingredient.
Capryloyl Glycerin/Sebacic Acid Copolymer
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Capryloyl Glycerin/Sebacic Acid CopolymerA naturally-derived film-former that increases water resistance of a product. It is also referred to as an alternative to dimethicone.
Mica
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
MicaA mineral powder made up of silicates with several functions (the main one being as a colorant). It has a shimmery appearance, making it highly desirable in certain cosmetic products. Mica also helps the product to apply more smoothly.
Behenyl Behenate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Behenyl Behenate
Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) ButterA semi-solid, buttery fat extracted from the seeds of the Shea tree that is a wonderful occlusive and emollient ingredient mainly comprised of fatty acids. Shea butter contains a large amount of anti-inflammatory and antioxidant compounds.
Oryzanol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
OryzanolIsolated from rice bran oil, it is an antioxidant mixture of various bioactive compounds, mainly esters of ferulic acid along with different sterols.
Ethyl Ferulate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Ethyl Ferulate
Polyglyceryl-3 Polyricinoleate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Polyglyceryl-3 Polyricinoleate
Isostearic Acid
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Isostearic AcidA saturated fatty acid used to mix oil and water and to remove dirt from the skin's surface. Isostearic acid is listed among common comedogenic ingredients by acne.org.
Lecithin
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
LecithinA humectant, emollient, and emulsifier best suited for water-in-oil emulsions. Lecithin can come from sunflowers, soy, and eggs. The downside to lecithin is that it causes an extra burden on the formula’s preservative because it is nutritious.
Bisabolol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Bisabolol

An anti-inflammatory compound found naturally in German chamomile essential oil. It has a pleasant, sweet, and floral scent. Bisabolol also has soothing and anti-inflammatory properties but can cause an allergic reaction in more sensitive individuals.

Tocopherol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Tocopherol

Simply another name for vitamin E. Tocopherol is a fantastic ingredient and especially beneficial for dry and inflamed skin. It has occlusive moisturizing, emollient, antioxidant, and photoprotective properties.

Silica
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
SilicaA widely used cosmetic ingredient with the same chemical composition as the sand found on beaches. A common function of silica is its ability to control viscosity. In certain chemical forms, it can effectively thicken cream-style products.