Did you know your lips can get sunburned too? It’s true! Just like your skin, your lips are exposed to the sun’s harmful rays every day. But when it comes to protecting them, many of us forget. We slather on sunscreen for our faces and bodies, but our delicate lips often get left out.
This is a big problem because sunburned lips can be painful and dry. And over time, sun damage can even lead to more serious issues. The trouble is, finding a good lip sunscreen can feel overwhelming. There are so many brands and types, and it’s hard to know which ones actually work and feel good to wear.
In this post, we’re going to dive deep into the world of lip sunscreen. We’ll explore why it’s so important, what to look for when you’re shopping, and how to find the perfect product for your pout. By the end, you’ll be a lip sunscreen pro, ready to keep your smile protected all year round.
Our Top 5 Lip Sunscreen Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Lip Sunscreen Detailed Reviews
1. Banana Boat Sport Ultra SPF 50 Lip Sunscreen 2 Pack
Rating: 8.5/10
Don’t let your lips get burned this summer! The Banana Boat Sport Ultra SPF 50 Lip Sunscreen 2 Pack is your new best friend for all your sunny adventures. This twin pack offers powerful protection for your lips, keeping them safe from the sun’s harsh rays whether you’re at the beach, on a hike, or just out playing. It’s a must-have for anyone who loves spending time outdoors.
What We Like:
- It offers superior protection that lasts, even when you sweat or swim.
- The SPF 50 broad spectrum protection guards your lips from harmful UVA and UVB rays.
- The formula feels light and breathable, so it’s not sticky or heavy.
- It moisturizes your lips while protecting them from sunburn.
- You can feel good knowing it’s free from oxybenzone and octinoxate.
- Getting two lip sunscreens means you always have one handy.
What Could Be Improved:
- The scent might be a little strong for some people.
- It can sometimes be a bit hard to find in stores.
This lip sunscreen is a fantastic way to keep your lips healthy and protected. Grab this twin pack and enjoy your summer worry-free!
2. Sun Bum SPF 30 Sunscreen Lip Balm 3 Flavor Variety Pack – Coconut
Rating: 9.1/10
Get ready to pucker up and protect your pout with the Sun Bum SPF 30 Sunscreen Lip Balm 3 Flavor Variety Pack! This awesome trio brings you the delicious tastes of Coconut, Banana, and Watermelon, all while keeping your lips safe from the sun’s rays. Packed with moisturizing Aloe Vera and Vitamin E, these vegan and cruelty-free balms are your go-to for smooth, hydrated lips, no matter where your adventures take you.
What We Like:
- Amazing variety pack with three fun flavors: Coconut, Banana, and Watermelon!
- SPF 30 protection fights off harmful UVA/UVB rays, keeping your lips safe.
- Moisturizing formula with Aloe Vera and Vitamin E keeps lips feeling soft and hydrated.
- Vegan and cruelty-free, so you can feel good about using it.
- Works great for everyday use, not just beach days – perfect for skiing or just hanging out!
- Hypoallergenic, gluten-free, and paraben-free.
- FSA/HSA eligible for easy purchasing.
What Could Be Improved:
- The temptation to lick it off is real because it smells so good!
- Reapplication is needed on super sunny days, which is standard for sunscreen.
This Sun Bum lip balm variety pack is a fantastic way to keep your lips protected and feeling great. Grab yours and get ready for happy, healthy smiles!
3. Aquaphor Lip Protectant and Sunscreen Ointment – Broad Spectrum SPF 30 – Relieves Chapped Lips – .35 fl. Oz. Tube
Rating: 9.4/10
Say goodbye to dry, uncomfortable lips with Aquaphor Lip Protectant and Sunscreen Ointment. This handy tube offers serious relief for chapped lips and important sun protection. It’s a must-have for anyone who wants healthy, happy lips, no matter the weather.
What We Like:
- Dermatologists trust Aquaphor, making it a top pick for lip care.
- It really works to fix dry and cracked lips, making them feel better fast.
- The formula is packed with good stuff like vitamins and Shea Butter to keep lips soft.
- It has SPF 30 to shield your lips from the sun’s harmful rays.
- This lip balm is perfect for all kinds of weather, from sunny days to windy chills.
- One tube gives you plenty of product for on-the-go touch-ups.
What Could Be Improved:
- The .35 oz size might run out quickly for very frequent users.
- Some users might prefer a wider range of scent options.
This Aquaphor lip balm is a reliable choice for keeping your lips soothed and protected. It’s a simple, effective way to care for your smile.
4. EltaMD UV Lip Balm SPF Sunscreen
Rating: 8.6/10
The EltaMD UV Lip Balm SPF Sunscreen is your new go-to for happy, healthy lips. This balm offers serious sun protection while keeping your lips feeling super soft. It’s designed to help lips that are dry or cracked, making them feel better and look great. With SPF 36 and zinc oxide, it works hard to shield your lips from the sun’s rays.
What We Like:
- It moisturizes and protects dry, cracked lips, keeping them soft and hydrated.
- The powerful UV protection uses Zinc Oxide and offers SPF 36.
- It’s long-lasting, even in water, humidity, and sweat, providing up to 80 minutes of sun protection.
- The formula is infused with minerals and antioxidants to revitalize and nourish lips.
- It protects lips from UV rays while keeping a natural look thanks to transparent zinc oxide.
- It’s perfect for everyday use, along with your other favorite lip care products.
What Could Be Improved:
- Some users might prefer a slightly more noticeable flavor.
- The .28 oz tube, while portable, might run out quickly for very frequent users.
This lip balm is a fantastic choice for anyone who wants to keep their lips protected and moisturized. You’ll love how it makes your lips feel.
5. Banana Boat SPF Lip Balm with Aloe Vera & Vitamin E
Rating: 9.2/10
This Banana Boat SPF Lip Balm with Aloe Vera & Vitamin E is your new best friend for happy, healthy lips. It’s perfect for sunny days, beach trips, or even just your daily commute. This little tube packs a punch with SPF 45 protection, keeping your lips safe from the sun’s rays. Plus, it’s loaded with good stuff like aloe vera and vitamin E to keep your lips feeling soft and smooth.
What We Like:
- It’s made with aloe vera and vitamin E, which are great for your lips.
- This lip balm moisturizes for a super long time, up to 12 hours!
- It offers broad spectrum UVA and UVB protection, so it guards against all kinds of sun damage.
- The formula is water resistant for up to 80 minutes, making it perfect for swimming or sweating.
- It helps prevent sunburn and keeps your lips from getting damaged by the sun over time.
- It comes in a handy travel size, so you can take it anywhere.
What Could Be Improved:
- You need to remember to reapply it as directed on the label, just like any sunscreen.
This Banana Boat lip balm is a fantastic way to protect and moisturize your lips. Grab one and keep your smile protected all day long!
Your Lips Need Sunscreen Too! A Buying Guide
Your lips are delicate. They can get sunburned just like your skin. That’s why lip sunscreen is super important. It protects your lips from the sun’s harmful rays.
Why Use Lip Sunscreen?
The sun has UV rays. These rays can damage your skin. They can also make your lips dry and chapped. Over time, this damage can lead to bigger problems. Lip sunscreen acts like a shield. It blocks these rays. This keeps your lips healthy and soft.
Key Features to Look For
When you shop for lip sunscreen, check for a few things.
SPF Level
- SPF 30 or Higher: This is the most important thing. SPF stands for Sun Protection Factor. A higher SPF means more protection. SPF 30 blocks about 97% of the sun’s rays. SPF 50 blocks about 98%.
Broad Spectrum Protection
- UVA and UVB Rays: Look for “broad spectrum” on the label. This means it protects against both UVA and UVB rays. UVA rays cause aging. UVB rays cause sunburn. You need protection from both.
Water Resistance
- Sweat and Water: If you’ll be swimming or sweating a lot, choose a water-resistant formula. This means it will stay on your lips longer. Most are good for 40 or 80 minutes.
Moisturizing Ingredients
- Hydration is Key: Your lips need moisture. Look for ingredients like shea butter, coconut oil, or beeswax. These help keep your lips soft and prevent dryness.
Formulation
- Balm or Stick: Most lip sunscreens come as a balm or a stick. Sticks are easy to carry. Balms can feel smoother.
Important Materials
Lip sunscreens use different ingredients to protect your lips.
Sunscreen Filters
- Chemical Filters: These absorb UV rays. Common ones include oxybenzone and avobenzone.
- Mineral Filters: These sit on top of your skin and block rays. Zinc oxide and titanium dioxide are common mineral filters. They are often good for sensitive skin.
Emollients and Moisturizers
- For Softness: Ingredients like petroleum jelly, lanolin, and various plant oils moisturize and soften.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Some things make lip sunscreen work better. Other things can make it less effective.
What Makes It Good
- Easy Application: A smooth, easy-to-apply formula feels nice.
- No Greasy Feeling: You don’t want your lips to feel heavy or greasy.
- Good Staying Power: It stays on your lips for a good amount of time.
- Pleasant Scent (or No Scent): Some people like a light scent. Others prefer no smell at all.
What Can Make It Less Good
- Chalky Texture: Some mineral sunscreens can leave a white cast.
- Drying Formula: If it dries out your lips, it’s not doing its job well.
- Melting in Heat: If it melts easily, it’s hard to use.
- Unpleasant Taste: You don’t want it to taste bad if you accidentally lick your lips.
User Experience and Use Cases
How you use lip sunscreen matters.
Everyday Use
- Daily Protection: Apply it every morning before you go outside. Reapply after a few hours, especially if you’ve been eating or drinking.
Outdoor Activities
- Sports and Recreation: Use it when you’re playing sports, hiking, or spending time at the beach.
- Skiing and Snowboarding: Snow reflects the sun. Your lips can get burned even in cold weather.
After Sun Care
- Soothing Lips: Some lip balms with SPF also have soothing ingredients. These can help if your lips are already a bit dry.
Frequently Asked Questions About Lip Sunscreen
Q: What is the most important thing to look for in lip sunscreen?
A: The most important thing is the SPF level. Look for SPF 30 or higher.
Q: Can I use regular sunscreen on my lips?
A: You can, but lip sunscreen is made for the delicate skin on your lips. It’s usually less waxy and easier to apply without feeling heavy.
Q: How often should I reapply lip sunscreen?
A: Reapply every two hours. Also, reapply after eating, drinking, or swimming.
Q: Does lip sunscreen taste bad?
A: Some might have a slight taste. Many brands offer flavorless options or light, pleasant flavors.
Q: Can lip sunscreen prevent cold sores?
A: Sun exposure can trigger cold sores for some people. Lip sunscreen can help by protecting your lips from the sun.
Q: What does “broad spectrum” mean for lip sunscreen?
A: It means the sunscreen protects your lips from both UVA and UVB rays from the sun.
Q: Are mineral or chemical sunscreen filters better for lips?
A: Mineral filters like zinc oxide are often good for sensitive skin. Chemical filters can be effective too. It depends on what works best for you.
Q: Can lip sunscreen help with dry or chapped lips?
A: Yes, many lip sunscreens contain moisturizing ingredients that help keep lips soft and prevent dryness.
Q: Should I wear lip sunscreen even on cloudy days?
A: Yes. UV rays can still reach your skin on cloudy days. It’s best to protect your lips every day.
Q: How can I store lip sunscreen to keep it from melting?
A: Keep it in a cool, dry place. Avoid leaving it in direct sunlight or a hot car.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.
Hi, I’m Tom Scalisi, and welcome to The Saw Blog! I started this blog to share my hands-on experience and insights about woodworking tools—especially saws and saw blades. Over the years, I’ve had the chance to work with a wide range of tools, and I’m here to help both professionals and hobbyists make informed decisions when it comes to selecting and using their equipment. Whether you’re looking for in-depth reviews, tips, or just advice on how to get the best performance out of your tools, you’ll find it here. I’m excited to be part of your woodworking journey!