Expert-Verified
Your lips are the part of your face that usually goes unnoticed when you apply sunscreen to your face.
Just like your face and other parts of the body, your lips are also susceptible to sun damage. Their continuous sun exposure without any protection can result in sagging, dryness, dark spots, and fine lines.
Therefore, just like your face, it is crucial to shield your lips from the harmful UV rays.
The skin of your lips is thinner than any other part of your body; therefore, using a lip balm with SPF will protect your skin from sun damage.
Continue reading to learn why using a lip balm with SPF is highly recommended.
Article Contents
Importance of Using a Lip Balm with SPF
The following are the reasons you should use a lip balm with SPF.
Sun Protection
Your lip’s skin is a delicate part of your face and is vulnerable to damage from UV radiation. The UV rays can make your lips dry and chapped, leading to fine lines.
Applying a lip balm with SPF shields your lips from the harmful UVA and UVB rays and reduces the chances of UV damage.
Daily Shield
Your lips are at constant risk of sun exposure whenever you step outside in the daytime, even on cloudy days.
Adding a lip balm with SPF to your skincare routine will protect your lips, irrespective of the weather, and it will benefit your lips in the long run. Reapply whenever needed.
Sunburn Protection
Just like any other part of your skin, your lips can also get sunburned, which can be very uncomfortable. Continuous UV damage can also give rise to long-term concerns.
A lip balm with sufficient UV protection minimizes the risk associated with sun exposure and prevents sunburn.
Elimination of Existing Suntan
One of the leading causes of dark lips is sun damage. The good news is applying a lip balm with SPF and lightening active scan brightens already tanned lips.
Hydration
Several SPF-containing lip balms have moisturizing ingredients that keep the lips well hydrated and moisturized while shielding them and preventing sun damage.
It is important to note that chapped and dry lips are susceptible to sun damage and other environmental stressors.
Things to Look for When Choosing a Lip Balm with SPF
Keep the following things in mind when choosing a lip balm with SPF.
Make sure it provides broad-spectrum protection
Go for a lip balm that protects your lips from both UVB and UVA rays for broad-spectrum coverage and protection.
Check its SPF levels
When purchasing a lip balm, make sure it has an SPF of at least 15 or 30 to provide sufficient UV protection. You can also go for a higher SPF if you spend more time outdoors.
Always read the ingredients list
Choose a lip balm that’s free from parabens and sulfates.
Stay away from lip balms that mention “cooling features,” as they may contain camphor or phenol, which can make your lips vulnerable by stripping their protective layer.
Look for moisturizing and hydrating ingredients, such as cocoa butter and shea butter, for prolonged lip health. Also, make sure it is hypoallergenic to prevent allergic reactions or irritation.
Make sure it is water-resistant
If you sweat a lot or love water-based sports, then choose a lip balm with a water-resistant formula.
Steer clear from chemicals
Pick a lip balm that is free from harmful chemicals such as sulfates and parabens. Additionally, make sure it is free from artificial color and fragrance, as they may lead to lip sensitivity.
Check the packaging
When purchasing a lip balm, go for environmentally-friendly packaging. Also, try to look for a stick packaging that can be used directly on the lips, instead of using your fingers, and can also be carried with ease.
Always check the expiration date
When picking a lip balm, don’t forget to check its expiration date, as sunscreen ingredients lose their efficacy with time. Therefore, if it’s past its expiration date, avoid using it.
General Queries
What SPF is recommended for the lips?
It is crucial to use SPF protection on your lips. A lip balm with an SPF of 30 or higher will give your lips sufficient sun protection while keeping them hydrated and moisturized.
Can an SPF lip balm lighten dark lips?
Yes, using a lip balm with a higher SPF may lighten dark lips. They also prevent further darkening of the lips.
Final Word
Your lips are an essential part of your body. Therefore, adding a lip balm with an SPF to your daily routine will reduce sun-induced damage and promote healing.
Whether you prefer an all-natural or a glam look, it is highly advised to use an SPF-containing lip balm for better moisturization and protection from the sun’s harmful rays.
