Are you looking for a lip balm that can protect your lips from the sun? If so, consider lip balms with SPF! These lip balms have many different features, like options with water resistance or a sheer tint of color. Since there are so many choices on the market, finding the best one for you can be tricky and time-consuming. That's why we've done our research and wrote this article to help you make the right decision.
We have found 10 excellent options for lip balms with SPF. One of our favorites is Sun Bum's SPF 30 Mineral Sunscreen Lip Balm! It has excellent protection, many moisturizing ingredients, and is reef-friendly. For more options, check out our other recommended products, and be sure to read through our buying guide for all the details you need to know to make an informed decision and check out our tips from dermatologist Dr. Lauren Levy!
Quick List - Top Lip Balms with SPF
Jack Black
Best Highly-Moisturizing Lip Balm With Subtle Flavors
Dr. Levy is a board certified dermatologist practicing in NYC and Westport, Connecticut. She has expertise in treating inflammatory skin conditions like acne, rosacea, eczema, and psoriasis. She has an interest in skincare and takes a personalized approach to all of her patients.
mybest US' editing team consists of experienced members who have backgrounds in writing, editing, translation, and more. We are dedicated to researching what makes a product or service the best to users in the US in order to create top-quality articles. From skincare, to kitchen appliances, and to DIY supplies, our mission is to find the best ones for you.
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Table of Contents
Choosing the right lip balm with SPF is easy if you keep our tips in mind. Keep reading to find all the information you need to know!
Unlike skin, which has melanin to block out UV rays, lips have almost no melanin in them. This means they're more sensitive to UV light and need extra protection.
When it comes to SPF numbers, many dermatologists suggest choosing lip balms with at least an SPF of 15. But, it's best to get ones with SPF 30 and above. If your lip balm isn't water-resistant, make sure to reapply it every two hours or sooner if your lips get wet, regardless of SPF numbers.
The lips, especially the lower lip, are very prone to sun damage. This means that they are also prone to skin cancer, especially squamous cell carcinoma. Skin cancer on the lip can be life-threatening and often requires a large surgery for treatment which can be disfiguring. Wearing and reapplying an SPF to the lips can help significantly reduce this risk.
If you're looking for a lip balm for summer or plan to spend a lot of time in a pool or the ocean, it's a good idea to consider one with a water-resistant formula. Some lip balms are water-resistant for 40 minutes, while others protect your lips for longer. To be safe, it never hurts to reapply early.
Though many lip balms offer a shiny finish, you can find some with a matte finish as well. Matte lip balms are great for applying underneath matte lipsticks or if you don't want a shiny finish.
If you're bringing your lip balm to the beach or keeping it in a hot car, consider a liquid formula. Lip balms in stick form may melt, and they usually have a cap that easily pops off. However, liquid formulas typically are packaged in squeeze tubes with a secure screw-on cap, preventing mess. Plus, you won't have to worry about them melting.
Water-resistant balms are great for long days at the beach or pool. However, you should still reapply frequently (every 80 minutes) with lots of water exposure or heavy sweat. This will keep your lips protected and reduce the chance of sun damage.
It's a good idea to consider natural moisturizers like aloe vera, shea butter, cocoa butter, hyaluronic acid, glycerin, coconut oil, avocado oil, almond oil, jojoba oil, and other natural oils.
Beeswax and honey can soften and heal dry lips. Their anti-inflammation properties help to calm redness and soothe irritated skin. Plus, they are naturally antibacterial.
Lanolin is a waxy substance derived from sheep's wool that's similar to human sebum. Its highly emollient properties help lock in moisture and prevent water loss. Petrolatum, petroleum jelly, and mineral oils are all derived from crude oil. They also help seal in moisture and protect your lips from dryness and chapping.
Vitamin E oil is also moisturizing and can help heal sun damage, especially when paired with vitamin C. Plus, vitamin E can help to generate new skin cells and boost circulation, which can promote softer lips and reduce the signs of aging.
Lanolin is very hydrating and a great ingredient to look for if you have dry or chapped lips. The Aquaphor Lip Protectant + Sunscreen is a great product to use for maximum hydration and SPF. A small number of people are allergic to lanolin, so if your lips get drier after use, you may have a lanolin allergy. Your dermatologist can help you figure out if you have an allergy to lanolin.
If you have sensitive skin or are worried that you may be allergic to ingredients in the lip balm, do a patch test before applying it. If your lips are extremely sensitive, pay extra attention to cooling agents like phenol, menthol, and camphor. These ingredients can cause mild tingling, which can irritate your lips.
Be aware of alcohols like ethanol, isopropyl alcohol, and alcohol denat, which can dehydrate and dry out your lips. Although salicylic acid acts as a mild exfoliator to remove dead skin cells, it can also cause stinging and irritation in some people.
Vitamin E helps to prevent the oxidation of oils and prolong the shelf life of lip balms, making it a perfect alternative to synthetic preservatives like parabens, phthalates, butylated hydroxyanisole (BHA), and butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT).
Fragrance, also known as parfum, is another possible irritant. Some lip balms contain added fragrance to cover the unwanted natural smell of a product, while others use fragrance to create an artificial smell. It's often unclear what's in fragrance, so many people with sensitive skin avoid it to be safe.
If you have sensitive skin, look for options that are naturally scented or made without added fragrance. Keep in mind that lip balms with no added fragrance may still have a smell from naturally fragrant ingredients, like essential oils.
Even if you don't have sensitive skin, it's still a good idea to check out the ingredients list. Unlike other skincare products, it's very likely that you will ingest small amounts of lip balm as you lick your lips. While it's unlikely that you will ingest anything harmful, it's still smart to be informed, especially if you have strong allergies.
Look for products that have the least amount of additives or preservatives if you have sensitive skin. Fragrance is a common cause of contact dermatitis and can exacerbate eczema, so avoid fragrance if you have these conditions.
Some reviewers note that lip balms with SPF tend to have a bitter flavor. The best way to determine if a lip balm has an unpleasant taste is to skim the customer reviews. Try searching for the words "bitter" or "taste" to save time.
It also seems like lower numbers tend to taste less unpleasant, with most reviewers enjoying the taste of lip balms with an SPF 15. However, be sure to reapply balms with lower SPFs more often!
Another option is to look for lip balms with stronger flavorings that may mask bitterness, like cherry or lemon. Since scent is involved in how we experience taste, looking for appealing scents can also help.
Some brands don't clarify specific flavorings used in their products. In some cases, reading the ingredient list may help you have more idea about the scents and flavoring of the lip balm.
Avoid menthols or mint balms if you have dry lips. Although they can be initially soothing with the cooling sensation, they can cause your lips to become dry and chapped in the long run. Additionally, mint flavors can trigger an outbreak of perioral dermatitis, a red, bumpy, acne-like rash around the mouth.
Products | Image | Click to purchase | Key features | |
---|---|---|---|---|
1 | Sun Bum | ![]() | Best Matte Lip Balm With Mineral-Based Sun Protection | |
2 | Banana Boat | ![]() | Best Lip Balm With a High SPF and Water-Resistance | |
3 | Aquaphor | ![]() | Best Non-Irritating Lip Balm With Convenient Packaging | |
4 | Jack Black Intense Therapy Lip Balm|1 pack, Natural Mint & Shea Butter | ![]() | Best Highly-Moisturizing Lip Balm With Subtle Flavors | |
5 | Neutrogena Revitalizing Lip Balm | ![]() | Best for a Sheer Wash of Color | |
6 | Palmer's | ![]() | Best Oil-Rich Lip Balm for Dry Lips | |
7 | eos Shea Sunscreen Lip Balm|Lemon Twist | ![]() | Best Lip Balm With a Strong Scent and Fun Packaging | |
8 | EltaMD UV Lip Balm | ![]() | Best Fragrance-Free Lip Balm | |
9 | Blistex Five Star Lip Protection | ![]() | Best Healing Formula for Outdoor Activities | |
10 | Chapstick Classic Lip Moisturizer Lip Balm | ![]() | Reliable Hydration with SPF Protection for Daily Use |
Pros:
Cons:
This lip balm offers a unique array of benefits: it's matte, reef-friendly, and free of common irritants. It uses mineral-based sunscreen that's less harmful to the ocean. Plus, it's full of moisturizing oils, like sweet almond oil and jojoba oil.
Some reviewers note that it leaves a white cast on their lips. Still, most love this lip balm, saying it tastes and smells better than other SPF balms. They also appreciate that it's mineral-based, which is difficult to find in a lip balm. Plus, some confirm that it's moisturizing and easy to apply!
Pros:
Cons:
Do you often spend long hours outdoors and need a higher SPF? If so, this lip balm may be the best choice for you. Not only does it offer broad-spectrum SPF 45 protection, but it's also water-resistant. This means that you can enjoy your time at the beach or pool with less worry.
There are some reports that it tastes bad, but many still recommend it even with the odd flavor. They say that it's moisturizing and doesn't leave a white cast. They also confirm that it offers excellent protection, especially at the pool. Some note that it smells better than other SPF lip balms, too.
Pros:
Cons:
This lip balm is a balanced choice, offering both a higher SPF and moisturizing ingredients. For example, vitamin E and shea butter help soften and moisturize lips! It's also free of common potential irritants, making it a better choice if you have sensitive skin.
A few reviewers report that it has an unpleasant taste. Otherwise, however, this lip balm is widely praised for its ability to protect and moisturize lips. Many confirm that it's non-irritating and nourishing, saying it heals chapped lips. They also like that they don't have to worry about it melting in the heat, unlike lip balms in stick form.
Pros:
Cons:
This lip balm offers SPF 25 with broad-spectrum coverage from UVA and UVB rays. It's formulated with highly-moisturizing ingredients, like lanolin oil and shea butter, to soften dry lips. Plus, it comes in a range of flavors, like grapefruit and ginger.
A few reviewers are concerned about fake products on Amazon, so we included a link to the brand's official online shop. But overall, this lip balm is widely praised for its texture and formula, with many saying it's moisturizing without being sticky. Many especially love the natural mint flavor, saying that it's subtle and fresh.
Pros:
Cons:
Looking for a tinted balm? This sheer tinted balm offers a slightly shiny finish and comes in six shades, making it suitable for different skin tones. It has broad-spectrum SPF 20 for decent sun protection. Plus, shea butter and lanolin help add moisture to your lips!
Some reviewers dislike the tube's wide oval shape, saying it's difficult to apply. However, most reviewers appreciate the subtle colors, saying they're perfect for everyday use and make their lips look healthy. They also confirm that it's fairly moisturizing!
Pros:
Cons:
This SPF 15 lip balm focuses on moisture. It's made with many moisturizing ingredients, including shea butter, sweet almond oil, and cocoa butter. Coconut oil and monoi oil, a type of flower, further nourish and soften lips.
This lip balm has a perfume-like taste that some reviewers find offputting. Otherwise, many love its moisturizing formula! They report that it helps soothe and heal dry, chapped lips. They also enjoy its tropical coconut scent.
Pros:
Cons:
This natural lip balm protects your lips against UVA and UVB rays. It's hypoallergenic and free from petrolatum and parabens. Plus, it offers 80 minutes of water resistance and a zesty lemon flavor. It also comes in an aloe version if you want something more subdued.
There are some concerns about fake lip balms on Amazon, so we included a link to the brand's official site. Overall, however, many love the pleasant lemon scent and flavor! Reviewers also liked the cute yellow packaging and formula, saying it makes their lips smooth.
Pros
Cons:
This lip balm provides broad-spectrum protection and a higher SPF of 36. Plus, unlike many other lip balms with SPF, it has no fragrance or strong taste. It's made with vitamins C and E to nourish your lips, and it's also water-resistant.
A couple of reviewers say that it leaves a white cast. But, many like its consistency, saying it doesn't feel thick, sticky, or greasy. They also say it works very well for dry lips and has a nice faint mint flavor.
Pros:
Cons:
This lip balm has broad-spectrum SPF 30 protection and offers 80 minutes of water-resistance. It's formulated with vitamin E-rich ingredients and calendula extra, an ingredient that can help heal and soothe skin.
A few reviewers don't like its bitter aftertaste, but many others like its non-greasy consistency. They add that it offers great protection and lasts a long time, making it an excellent choice for outdoor activities. Reviewers also report that it helps heal dry, cracked lips.
ChapStick Moisturizer Original Lip Balm Tubes provide hydration and sun protection in a convenient 0.15-ounce tube. Thanks to ingredients like aloe vera and vitamin E, the formula is designed to moisturize lips for up to eight hours. It also includes SPF 15, offering broad-spectrum protection from UV rays. This unflavored and unscented lip balm is non-tinted, making it a versatile option for everyday use. The compact tube size makes it easy to carry in your bag or pocket, making it accessible whenever your lips need protection or moisture.
This ChapStick lip balm is handy for those with dry or chapped lips, providing relief and protection from environmental factors such as wind and sun. The ultra-hydrating formula works year-round to soften and protect lips, making it suitable for daily use in all weather conditions. The product is free of parabens and caters to those who prefer minimalistic, simple lip care. Each pack contains three tubes, ensuring a steady supply of lip balm for extended periods, whether at the beach, outdoors, or dealing with everyday dryness.
If you have some questions about SPF lip balms, you're not alone. Check out these frequently asked questions to learn more!
Yes! To prevent skin cancer and premature aging, a lip balm with SPF is a must. Your lips are often exposed to the sun, especially your bottom lip.
Plus, your lips have thinner skin and less melanin, giving them less natural protection. While your lips may seem darker, it's actually from blood vessels being close to the surface of your skin, not melanin.
There is no harm in using an SPF lip balm at night. However, it's not necessary after the sun goes down.
But, just because it may seem overcast or dark outside doesn't mean you aren't being exposed to UV rays. Be sure to continue to wear it on cloudy days and during the winter!
Early signs of skin cancer on your lip include bumps, sores, or patches that may bleed or not heal. You may also experience pain or tingling. To be safe, always contact your doctor or dermatologist right away if you notice something worrying. Early treatment is key, and it's important not to self-diagnose using the internet.
Now that you have all of the information you need to select a lip balm with SPF, take a look at the useful buying guides below about choosing other SPF products.
No. 1: Sun Bum |
No. 2: Banana Boat|
No. 3: Aquaphor |
No. 4: Jack Black|Intense Therapy Lip Balm|1 pack, Natural Mint & Shea Butter
No. 5: Neutrogena|Revitalizing Lip Balm
View Full RankingThe descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.
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