Did you know your lips have the thinnest skin on your entire body? That means they burn faster and dry out quicker than anywhere else! When the sun shines bright, we slather lotion on our arms and faces, but often, we forget the one spot that needs protection most: our lips. It feels so frustrating when you finally pick a lip balm, only to find it tastes waxy, leaves a white cast, or worse—doesn’t actually protect you from the sun.
Finding a sunblock lip balm that works feels like a scavenger hunt. You want something that feels great, tastes good (or tasteless!), and genuinely guards against harmful UV rays. If you’re tired of sticky formulas or products that disappear after one sip of water, you’re in the right place. We dug deep into the best options available.
By the end of this post, you will know exactly what SPF level you need, what ingredients to look for, and which balms will keep your pout soft, safe, and happy all summer long. Let’s dive in and find your perfect sun-kissed lip protector!
Top Sunblock Lip Balm Recommendations
- SUPERIOR ENDURANCE VS. SWEAT & WATER — From ski trips to everyday cold weather outings, this SPF lip balm helps protect lips from winter sun.
- CLINICALLY PROVEN UVA/UVB PROTECTION — This SPF 50 broad spectrum lip sunscreen protects your lips from the sun's harmful UV rays
- SUNSCREEN FOR LIPS WITH A LIGHTWEIGHT, BREATHABLE FORMULA — Non-greasy feel won't weigh you downn
- MOISTURIZES & PROTECTS dry lips from the sun’s burning rays in winter
- FREE FROM oxybenzone and octinoxate
- SPF 30 SUNSCREEN LIP BALM - VARIETY PACK. Our fav SPF lip balm trio with Aloe and Vitamin E to protect and moisturize your kisser all day long. Our smooth and hydrating formula with Aloe and Vitamin E is great for everyday lip protection
- LASTING LIP PROTECTION. Our unique SPF lip balm is not just for a day at the beach. This triple action formula will protect, heal and moisturize your lips, whether you’re hitting the beach, slopes or just cruising around town. We’ve got you covered
- HOW TO USE. Apply liberally on lips to keep them safe and soft. Reapply frequently on sun-centric days and adventures. Sonny’s Tip: Try to not lick it off, even though it smells like a tasty treat
- PROTECT YOUR LIPS. The key to safe sun is to protect and moisturize your skin. Our Sun and Lip Products are enriched with Vitamin E, and are Gluten, Cruelty and Paraben Free to ensure a fun, active day in the sun
- TRUST THE BUM. What does that mean? It means trust us, the ones who live on the beach and need products that work on the most intense days in the sun. The simple truth is, when you make products to protect the ones you love, you make ‘em better
- Mineral SPF Lip Balm. Broad spectrum SPF 30 to protect lips from sun damage.
- Tinted Finish. Adds a pink hue while keeping lips hydrated.
- Moisturizing Formula. Nourishes with clean, vegan ingredients.
- Reef-Safe & Cruelty-Free. Safe sun care without harsh chemicals.
- Daily Lip Care. Ideal for outdoor wear with subtle tint and protection.
- Sun Bum Mineral Lip Balm, SPF 30 with Zinc-Oxide Mineral Formula
- Relieves the drying effects of the sun, wind and sea, and helps protect and moisturize chapped lips
- Broad Spectrum UVA / UVB Protection, Water Resistant (80 Minutes)
- Made with vegan ingredients that will keep your lips moisturized - Contains Zinc Oxide, Beeswax, Jojaba Oil, Shea Butter
- Free of harmful ingredients that will irritate your lips - Paraben Free, PAPA Free, Oxybenzone Free, Gluten Free
- MADE WITH ALOE VERA & VITAMIN E–SPF lip balm is great for everyday use
- Lip sunscreen MOISTURIZES FOR 12 HOURS & soothes dry lips
- BROAD SPECTRUM UVA & UVB protection that is water resistant for up to 80 minutes
- HELPS PREVENT SUNBURN and long-term sun damage
- LASTS AS LONG AS THE FUN DOES–Reapply Banana Boat lip balm as directed on the product label
- NANO-FREE LIP BALM PACK: One package contains three 0.15 oz. lip balm tubes of Burt’s Bees Sun Care SPF 30 Lip Balm, including one tube each of Coco Loco, Beaches and Cream, and Tropic Like It's Hot
- SPF SUNSCREEN BENEFITS: Infused with zinc oxide, this lip balm with SPF 30 protection to prevent sunburn does not have the typical whitening residue
- NOURISH DRY OR CHAPPED LIPS: These tubes glide on your lips smoothly with a moisturizing balm texture to keep lips happy, healthy and hydrated
- CONDITIONING LIP TREATMENT: This lip moisturizer leaves your lips smooth and refreshed with a matte finish from natural ingredients, including almond oil, vitamin E and shea butter
- CLEAN INGREDIENTS: Formulated without parabens, phthalates, petrolatum or SLS, this 100% natural origin lip balm is also Leaping Bunny Certified to revitalize and beautify lips with clean ingredients
- DERMATOLOGIST RECOMMENDED: Lip Repair Lip Balm from Aquaphor, the #1 dermatologist recommended lip care brand
- SOOTHES CHAPPED LIPS: Aquaphor lip repair balm is clinically proven to relieve dryness and soothe chapped, cracked lips
- NOURISHING AND SUN PROTECTING FORMULA: This Aquaphor lip balm with sunscreen is formulated with nourishing vitamins and Shea Butter, and includes Broad Spectrum SPF 30 sunscreen
- SUN PROTECTION FOR LIPS: Aquaphor Broad Spectrum SPF 30 lip balm tube helps to protect lips from the sun, and is great for use in dry, cold or windy conditions
- INCLUDES: One (1) 0.35 oz tube of Aquaphor Lip Repair Lip Balm with Sunscreen
- MULTI-FLAVOR PACK: Enjoy four delicious flavors in one pack—Vanilla, Mango, Dreamsicle, and Tropical. Each SPF lip balm glides on smooth and is a must-have for beach and travel essentials.
- SOOTHES AND PROTECTS: Formulated for sensitive skin, this sun screen lip balm helps prevent chapped lips and sunburn. Free from parabens, gluten, and animal testing for peace of mind.
- HIGH SPF SUN PROTECTION: With SPF 45, this sunscreen for lips offers broad spectrum UVA/UVB coverage. Ideal for outdoor activities, it helps shield lips from harsh sun exposure all year round.
- EASY APPLICATION: Each 4.25 g tube features a user-friendly design for quick use. Reapply after swimming, sweating, or toweling dry to maintain sunblock lip balm protection throughout the day.
- SUN SAFETY TIPS: Regularly use a broad spectrum SPF sunscreen lip balm and wear hats and sunglasses. Protect your lips and skin from sun damage and early signs of aging with daily use.
Your Essential Guide to Choosing the Best Sunblock Lip Balm
Your lips are delicate. They need protection from the sun just like your skin. A good sunblock lip balm is your best friend for sunny days. This guide helps you pick the perfect one.
Key Features to Look For
Sun Protection Power (SPF)
This is the most important part. Always check the Sun Protection Factor (SPF). For daily use, aim for SPF 15 or higher. If you spend long hours outdoors, like at the beach or skiing, choose SPF 30 or even SPF 50. Remember, higher numbers offer better protection against harmful UV rays.
Broad Spectrum Protection
Make sure the label says “Broad Spectrum.” This means the balm protects against both UVA rays (which cause aging) and UVB rays (which cause burning). A balm that only lists SPF usually only covers UVB.
Water Resistance
If you swim or sweat a lot, look for water resistance. Most balms are rated for 40 or 80 minutes of water resistance. You must reapply after this time or after toweling off.
Important Ingredients: What’s Inside Matters
Active Sunscreen Ingredients
Sunblock balms use two types of ingredients to block the sun:
- Mineral Filters: Zinc Oxide and Titanium Dioxide. These sit on top of the skin and physically block the sun. They are great for sensitive lips.
- Chemical Filters: Ingredients like Avobenzone or Octinoxate. These absorb UV rays before they enter your skin.
Moisturizing Elements
Since it is a balm, it must hydrate. Look for natural oils and butters. Shea butter, cocoa butter, coconut oil, or beeswax help keep lips soft and prevent dryness.
Quality Factors: What Makes a Balm Great or Just Okay
Texture and Finish
A high-quality balm applies smoothly. It should not feel thick, sticky, or greasy. Some balms leave a white cast (especially mineral ones), which some people dislike. Test a small amount first.
Longevity and Reapplication
A good formula stays on longer, even after drinking water. If you find yourself reapplying every 30 minutes, the quality of the formula might be low. However, remember that all sunscreens need reapplication!
Flavor and Scent
Since this goes near your mouth, flavor is key for user experience. Many people prefer mild or natural flavors like vanilla or mint. Avoid strong artificial scents if you have sensitive skin or dislike strong tastes.
User Experience and Use Cases
Think about when and where you will use the balm the most.
Everyday Use vs. Intense Activity
For quick trips to the store, any SPF 15 balm works. For hiking, skiing, or beach days, you need a heavy-duty, high SPF (30+), water-resistant formula. These stronger formulas often provide better coverage.
Packaging
Does the balm come in a stick, a tub, or a squeeze tube? Stick tubes are the easiest to apply quickly and hygienically. Tubs require you to use your fingers, which can be messy if you are active.
Choosing the right sunblock lip balm protects your health and keeps your smile looking great all year long.
10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Sunblock Lip Balms
Q: Can I use regular lip balm instead of one with SPF?
A: No. Regular lip balm lacks the necessary active ingredients to block UV rays. Your lips will burn without sun protection.
Q: How often should I reapply my SPF lip balm?
A: You must reapply every two hours, or immediately after eating, drinking, or wiping your mouth.
Q: Are mineral sunscreens better than chemical ones for lips?
A: Mineral sunscreens (Zinc Oxide) are often recommended for sensitive skin because they are less likely to cause irritation. Chemical sunscreens tend to blend in clearer.
Q: Does a high SPF (like 50) mean I don’t have to reapply as often?
A: No. SPF level tells you how much protection you get, but it does not change how long the product stays effective on your skin. Reapplication time remains the same.
Q: Will my lip balm melt in the car on a hot day?
A: Yes, many balms will melt if left in direct heat, like a hot car. Store them in a cooler spot, like a bag or pocket.
Q: What is the difference between UVA and UVB rays?
A: UVB rays cause sunburn. UVA rays penetrate deeper, cause wrinkles, and also contribute to skin cancer. Broad Spectrum protects against both.
Q: Can I use this balm if I have very dry, cracked lips?
A: Yes, but look for one rich in occlusive ingredients like petrolatum or heavy butters to help heal the cracks while protecting them.
Q: Are tinted sunblock balms as effective as clear ones?
A: Yes, as long as the tint is made using FDA-approved colorants and the required amount of active SPF ingredients is present. The color does not reduce the sun protection.
Q: What should I do if my lips sting after applying the balm?
A: Stinging usually means you are sensitive to an ingredient, perhaps a flavor or a chemical filter. Try switching to a fragrance-free, mineral-only balm.
Q: Do I need sunblock lip balm in the winter?
A: Absolutely. Snow reflects UV rays, increasing your exposure. Cold weather also dries lips out, making protection essential.