What to Look for in SPF Lip Balms for Sun Protection

Choosing the right SPF lip balm can keep your lips hydrated and shielded from harmful UV rays. Here are some key factors to consider.

1. SPF Rating

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Look for a lip balm with an SPF of at least SPF15, though higher protection like SPF30 or above is ideal for extended sun exposure. This helps prevent sunburn and long-term damage.

2. Broad-Spectrum Protection

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Select a formula labeled 'broad-spectrum' to ensure defense against both UVA and UVB rays, which can cause premature aging and increase the risk of skin cancer.

3. Moisturizing Ingredients

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Choose balms enriched with hydrating ingredients such as shea butter, coconut oil, or vitamin E to prevent dryness and keep lips soft while outdoors.

4. Water Resistance & Longevity

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If you'll be swimming, sweating, or spending hours outside, opt for a water-resistant formula that stays put. Reapply every two hours or after eating and drinking for continuous protection.

  1. 1
    Intense Therapy Lip Balm SPF 25
    289 REVIEWS
    BestSeller
    Enriched with superior skin conditioners such as shea butter and avocado oil, plus antioxidants, this emollient lip balm penetrates quickly to soothe dry, chapped lips instantly.
  2. 2
    Chardonnay Lip Oil SPF 30
    224 REVIEWS
    A deluxe, multipurpose lip oil made from Chardonnay Grapeseed Oil that nourishes, shines, plumps, and protects. 
  3. 3
    Lipscreen SPF 40

    Supergoop!

    72 REVIEWS
    BestSeller
    A 100% invisible, non-sticky gloss to add SPF 40 protection to any lip color (or bare lips!).
  4. 4
    Hydraboost Lip Treatment SPF 45
    30 REVIEWS
    BestSeller
    Hydrating and smoothing broad spectrum SPF 45 reef safe vegan lip treatment with a power-packed peptide, vitamin B5 and aloe 
  5. 5
    Lipdrink Lip Balm

    Jane Iredale

    793 REVIEWS
    Quench your lips with hydrating protection that will leave lips feeling moisturized, protected and refreshingly scented.
  6. 6
    UV Lip Balm Broad-Spectrum Lip Sunscreen SPF 36
    273 REVIEWS
    Soothe and protect dry, sun-exposed lips with this creamy, long-lasting lip sunscreen.
  7. 7
    Lip Balm Trio SPF 25

    Jack Black

    43 REVIEWS
    BestSeller
    A trio of soothing Intense Therapy Lip Balms SPF 25 featuring award-winning flavor favorites and new Pineapple Mint. A $24 value!
  8. 8
    Color Balm SPF 50

    Odacité

    2 REVIEWS
    BestSeller
    A triple-action SPF 50 color balm that blends skincare, makeup, and sun protection.
  9. 9
    Lip Therapy Soothe & Protect Lip Treatment Broad Spectrum SPF 30
    Lip Therapy Soothe & Protect Lip Treatment Broad Spectrum SPF 30 visibly plumps, soothes, and hydrates lips while actively protecting against sun.
  10. 10
    Face & Lip SPF Kit

    Jack Black

    Here’s our zone defense strategy for daily sun protection — the Face and Lip SPF Set.

What to Look for in SPF Lip Balms for Sun Protection

Choosing the right SPF lip balm can keep your lips hydrated and shielded from harmful UV rays. Here are some key factors to consider.

1. SPF Rating

Citrus catapult arrow

Look for a lip balm with an SPF of at least SPF15, though higher protection like SPF30 or above is ideal for extended sun exposure. This helps prevent sunburn and long-term damage.

2. Broad-Spectrum Protection

Citrus catapult arrow

Select a formula labeled 'broad-spectrum' to ensure defense against both UVA and UVB rays, which can cause premature aging and increase the risk of skin cancer.

3. Moisturizing Ingredients

Citrus catapult arrow

Choose balms enriched with hydrating ingredients such as shea butter, coconut oil, or vitamin E to prevent dryness and keep lips soft while outdoors.

4. Water Resistance & Longevity

Citrus catapult arrow

If you'll be swimming, sweating, or spending hours outside, opt for a water-resistant formula that stays put. Reapply every two hours or after eating and drinking for continuous protection.