When I first created Sierra Stick, I wanted something that could handle everything the trail threw at me, whether it was dry lips, bug bites, minor scrapes, you name it. But over the years, I’ve learned that a lot of people don’t realize just how versatile this little stick really is. So I thought I’d take a moment to walk you through all the ways you can use Sierra Stick, whether you’re tackling a multi-day backpacking trip or just dealing with winter-dry skin at home.

The Three-in-One You Didn’t Know You Needed

Here’s the thing about Sierra Stick: it’s built to do three jobs really well. It’s a moisturizer, an anti-inflammatory, and a healing ointment all rolled into one compact tube. That might sound ambitious, but it’s actually what makes it so perfect for outdoor adventures where every ounce in your pack matters.

Let me break down each use case, because I’ve found that once people understand what Sierra Stick can do, they start reaching for it way more often.

Your Daily Moisturizer (That Actually Lasts)

The most obvious use is as a lip balm, and honestly, that’s how most people first discover Sierra Stick. But unlike those petroleum-based chapsticks that seem to evaporate the moment you apply them, Sierra Stick actually sticks around, pun intended. The organic beeswax and hemp seed oil create a barrier that locks in moisture without clogging your pores or leaving that greasy feeling.

I usually swipe it across my lips before heading out in the morning, and I’m good for most of the day. On the trail, especially in dry climates or at higher elevations, I might reapply once or twice, but that’s about it.

But here’s what a lot of people don’t realize: Sierra Stick isn’t just for your lips. I use it on my hands, cuticles, elbows—basically anywhere that gets dried out from sun and wind exposure. After a long day outside, my hands can get pretty weathered, and a quick application before bed works wonders. I wake up with soft, hydrated skin instead of that tight, cracked feeling.

If you’re dealing with larger dry patches or chafing, that’s where the Jumbo Body Balm comes in handy. Same formula, bigger stick, perfect for things like windburned cheeks or those spots on your thighs that always seem to chafe on long hikes.

The Anti-Inflammatory You’ll Wish You’d Had Sooner

This is where Sierra Stick really proves its worth. Bug bites and stings are just part of outdoor life, but they don’t have to ruin your trip. The natural antioxidants in hemp seed oil work to neutralize the irritation and reduce swelling almost immediately.

I discovered this use case pretty early on, actually. I was on a backpacking trip in the Eastern Sierra where the mosquitoes were relentless and I got absolutely eaten alive. I didn’t have anything else with me, so I tried applying Sierra Stick to the bites. Within minutes, the itching calmed down.

Now I keep a mini stick in my first aid kit specifically for this purpose. Apply it as soon as you notice a bite or sting, and reapply every few hours if needed. It won’t make the bite disappear entirely, but it’ll keep you comfortable enough that you’re not scratching yourself raw.

The same principle applies to rashes and chafing. If you know you’re prone to chafing in certain areas—inner thighs, underarms, wherever—you can actually apply Sierra Stick preventatively before your hike. The protective barrier reduces friction, and if irritation does happen, the anti-inflammatory properties help soothe it.

The Healing Ointment That Belongs in Your First Aid Kit

This is probably the use that surprises people the most, but it’s one I’m really proud of. Sierra Stick has antibacterial properties thanks to the hemp seed oil, which means you can use it on minor cuts, scrapes, and wounds to help prevent infection and promote healing.

The process is simple. First, clean your hands and the injured area with soap and water—this part is crucial. Once the wound is clean and dry, apply a thin layer of Sierra Stick directly over it. Then cover it with a bandage or sterile gauze to protect it from dirt and debris. Change the dressing daily, reapplying Sierra Stick each time, until the wound has closed up.

I’ve used this method countless times on the trail for everything from blisters that popped to minor scrapes from scrambling over rocks. It’s not a replacement for proper first aid—if something looks serious, get medical help—but for those everyday injuries that happen when you’re out in the wild, it’s incredibly useful.

And if you’ve ever dealt with sunburn after a long day outside, Sierra Stick can help there too. The fatty acids in the hemp seed oil soothe damaged skin and support the healing process. Just apply it gently to the affected area a few times a day, and you’ll notice the difference.

A Few Pro Tips I’ve Picked Up

After years of making and using Sierra Stick, I’ve learned a few things that might help you get even more out of yours.

First, Sierra Stick holds up incredibly well in extreme conditions. It won’t melt in your pack on a hot summer day, and it won’t freeze solid when you’re camping in the snow. That’s one of the big advantages of the beeswax-based formula—it’s stable across a wide temperature range. I’ve had mine at 10,000 feet in the winter while skiing and hot summer days hiking, and it performs exactly the same.

Second, if you’re not using your stick for a while, store it in a cool, dark place or even in the refrigerator. The natural ingredients mean it doesn’t have a bunch of preservatives, so it can gradually change color after about 9 to 12 months. If you notice your stick turning slightly white, don’t worry—it’s still perfectly safe but not as effective.

Why This Matters to Me

Creating Sierra Stick was personal. I got tired of products that didn’t actually solve the problems they claimed to, and I wanted something that respected both my body and the environment. Every tube is filled here in San Diego because I care about quality over quantity, and I want to make sure every single stick meets the standard I’d expect for myself on the trail.

The fact that it’s become such a versatile tool for so many people, from thru-hikers on the PCT to weekend warriors just trying to keep their lips from cracking, honestly makes me incredibly proud. It’s proof that when you create something with intention and care, it shows.

So whether you’re using Sierra Stick to keep your lips hydrated on a summit push, soothe a mosquito bite at camp, or heal a blister from day one of your backpacking trip, know that it was designed with you in mind. And if you ever have questions about how to use it or want to share your own tips, don’t hesitate to reach out. I love hearing from fellow adventurers who are getting the most out of their sticks.

Stay adventurous,
Sacha