
I believed I was an expert in sun protection, but I was still overlooking this crucial step.
As more individuals recognize the significance of SPF, it's no surprise that we're accumulating top SPF products, including facial sunscreens, body creams, and beyond. However, one item that doesn't receive enough attention is SPF lip balm. Yes, it might be hard to believe, but our lips require the same sun protection as the rest of our bodies. As a beauty editor dedicated to applying SPF daily, I too have overlooked this crucial step, but luckily, several of my preferred brands have launched a collection of delightful lip products featuring sun protection. With the new season approaching, I felt it was time to try out the best SPF lip balms and consult an expert about the necessity of incorporating these products into our daily routine. Just keep scrolling...
I've been testing out the most popular SPF lip balms.
Do You Need SPF for Your Lips?
You may wonder if wearing SPF on your lips is necessary. "Similar to the skin surrounding your eyes, the skin on your lips is thinner and more sensitive than other areas of your face," explains Heather Wish, skincare education manager at Paula’s Choice UK. "Appropriate lip care that includes mild yet deeply nourishing ingredients is essential, along with regular SPF usage." Indeed, according to Wish, we should care for our lips just as we do for the remainder of our face.
Should You Apply SPF Lip Balm Daily?
Just like your regular facial SPF, Wish recommends using an SPF lip balm every day. "SPF is crucial for skin health, as it protects against harmful UV rays," she notes. "It's vital to remember that UV rays can penetrate through clouds and windows—so be sure to apply SPF on your entire face and neck (including the lips) whether it's sunny or cloudy, and regardless of being indoors or outdoors."
How Often Should You Reapply SPF Lip Balm?
The frequency of reapplying your SPF lip balm depends on your daily activities. "It varies based on how long you'll be exposed to the sun and how long it lasts on your lips," Wish states. "In direct sunlight, the protection can last several hours, but be sure to reapply once it starts to wear off."
The Best SPF Lip Balms, Evaluated by an Editor
Best SPF Lip Balm Overall: Hello Sunday The One For Your Lips Lip Balm SPF50
Best Stick Formula: Paula's Choice Lip Balm SPF50
Best Tinted Formula: Ultra Violette Sheen Screen™ SPF50 Hydrating Lip Balm
Best Scented Formula: Bondi Sands Sunny Kiss Caramel SPF50+ Lip Balm
1. Hello Sunday The One For Your Lips Lip Balm SPF50
Best for: Comprehensive protection
Hello Sunday
The One for Your Lips Lip Balm SPF50
SPF: 50
Tinted: No
First on the list is a clear lip balm from Hello Sunday that I adore. It’s perfect for wearing alone or over your favorite lip liner or lipstick. It's fragrance-free, making it great for sensitive skin. What I particularly enjoy is its intense moisturization. The formula, infused with hyaluronic acid and vitamin E, always leaves my lips feeling soft and silky. It gives a subtle sheen, is easy to apply, and offers broad-spectrum protection against UVA and UVB rays. Need I say more?
Pros: High sun protection, moisturizing formula, easy application, clear color
Cons: The applicator can get a bit messy
2. Paula's Choice Lip Balm SPF 50
Best for: Convenient application
Paula's Choice
Lip Balm SPF 50
SPF: 50
Tinted: No
If you prefer a classic stick format, Paula's Choice is an excellent choice. This option is also suitable for sensitive skin as it's fragrance-free and totally clear. It contains shea butter and olive oil to keep your lips soft and moisturized, while SPF50 shields you from sun damage. It may not be the most glamorous choice, but it's a must-have in every handbag.
Pros: Easy to apply, SPF50, fragrance-free
Cons: No glossy sheen for the lips
3. Ultra Violette Sheen Screen™ SPF50 Hydrating Lip Balm
Best for: A tinted option
Ultra Violette
Sheen Screen in Bejewelled
SPF: 50
Tinted: Yes
For those desiring a touch of color, this Ultra Violette option is available in six fun shades. I chose "Bejewelled," a soft pink that offers a natural finish. Rich in lanolin, shea, and cacao seed butter, I found this formula to be incredibly hydrating and it provided a nice, glossy look. Additionally, it has a refreshing minty scent, making it a potential summer staple for me.
Pros: Available in six shades, moisturizing formula, SPF50
Cons: Slightly pricier
4. Bondi Sands Sunny Kiss Caramel SPF50+ Lip Balm
Best for: A fragrant option
Bondi Sands


















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I believed I was an expert in sun protection, but I was still overlooking this crucial step.
How could I have overlooked this?