When the summer sun comes out to play, we all know to slather on sunscreen, but have you considered protecting your lips? Your lips are more delicate than the rest of your skin and can burn, peel, and dry out from sun exposure just like the rest of your body. Thankfully, there are plenty of lip balms with SPF designed to keep your lips soft, smooth, and shielded from harmful UV rays. In this blog, we’ll guide you through the best ingredients and top products for summer lip care, helping you find the perfect lip balm that offers sun protection, hydration, and nourishment all in one.

Why Sun Protection for Your Lips is a Must

Just like the skin on the rest of your body, your lips are susceptible to sun damage, which can lead to burns, premature aging, and even increase your risk of lip cancer. Since your lips have a thinner layer of skin and less melanin than the rest of your face, they’re particularly vulnerable. Without proper protection, you might experience symptoms like dryness, cracking, peeling, and in more severe cases, sunburn.

Sunburns on your lips can be incredibly painful and often take longer to heal than on the rest of your body. That’s why using a lip balm with SPF daily is just as important as applying sunscreen to your face and body.

What Makes a Great Lip Balm for Sun Protection?

When shopping for lip balms to protect against the summer sun, you want to look for a few key ingredients that offer both moisture and sunblock. Here are some of the best ingredients to watch for:

SPF Ingredients for Lip Protection

• Zinc Oxide – This natural mineral acts as a physical barrier, reflecting UV rays and offering broad-spectrum protection. It’s gentle and effective, making it a top choice for lip care.
• Titanium Dioxide – Another mineral-based sunscreen agent, it’s often used in conjunction with zinc oxide for maximum protection.
• Avobenzone and Octinoxate – These chemical sunscreens are popular in some lip balms and provide UVA protection to prevent skin aging and burning.

Moisturizing and Nourishing Ingredients

• Shea Butter – Known for its rich, moisturizing properties, shea butter softens and smooths lips while offering some natural UV protection.
• Coconut Oil – A deeply hydrating oil that helps lock in moisture while providing light protection.
• Beeswax – Creates a protective barrier that helps prevent water loss, keeping your lips soft and hydrated.

Natural Healing Additions

• Vitamin E – An antioxidant that helps repair and soothe skin.
• Aloe Vera – Calms and hydrates lips that are already sun-damaged or dry from exposure.
• Peppermint or Eucalyptus Oils – Provide a cooling, refreshing sensation that’s perfect for hot summer days.

Top Lip Balms for Summer Sun Protection

Here’s a curated list of lip balms with SPF that offer excellent sun protection, nourishment, and soothing relief for your lips:

1. Badger Sport Lip Balm SPF 15

This eco-friendly lip balm provides SPF 15 using zinc oxide, offering reliable sun protection while nourishing lips with beeswax and sunflower oil. It’s water-resistant and perfect for outdoor activities, like hiking or swimming, making it a great choice for summer sports.

2. EltaMD UV Lip Balm Broad-Spectrum SPF 36

One of the highest SPF ratings you’ll find in a lip balm, this broad-spectrum SPF 36 balm from EltaMD offers both UVA and UVB protection. It contains hyaluronic acid for extra hydration, making it a fantastic option for dry lips exposed to the sun all day.

3. Burt’s Bees 100% Natural Origin Lip Balm with SPF 15

A classic favorite, Burt’s Bees offers a lip balm with SPF 15 made with natural ingredients like beeswax and sunflower oil. It hydrates, softens, and protects lips with its light, refreshing formula that’s free from parabens and phthalates.

4. Sun Bum SPF 30 Lip Balm

With SPF 30, this lip balm provides strong protection against the summer sun. It contains coconut oil and aloe vera for added moisture and healing properties, making it a perfect option for sun lovers who want a non-greasy balm that stays put.

5. Jack Black Intense Therapy Lip Balm SPF 25

This lip balm combines the benefits of SPF 25, shea butter, and vitamin E to protect and repair dry, chapped lips. Its sleek packaging makes it easy to apply and keep in your bag, while the nourishing ingredients help prevent sunburn and keep lips soft and smooth.

DIY Lip Balm Recipe for Sun Protection

Want to create your own lip balm with SPF? It’s easier than you think! Here’s a simple recipe to make your own protective balm at home:

DIY Lip Balm with SPF

Ingredients:

• 1 tbsp beeswax pellets
• 1 tbsp shea butter
• 1 tbsp coconut oil
• 1 tsp zinc oxide (non-nano)
• 4 drops vitamin E oil
• Optional: a few drops of peppermint essential oil for a refreshing minty feel

Instructions:

1. Melt beeswax, shea butter, and coconut oil together in a double boiler.
2. Once melted, remove from heat and stir in the zinc oxide and vitamin E oil.
3. Pour the mixture into small containers or lip balm tubes and let it cool before using.

Final Thoughts: Protect Your Lips All Summer Long

Don’t let your lips suffer under the summer sun—make sure to use a lip balm with SPF every day, whether you’re lounging at the beach or running errands. With the right combination of sun protection and moisture, your lips can stay soft, smooth, and healthy all season. Whether you choose a pre-made balm or make your own, taking care of your lips with natural, nourishing ingredients is key to ensuring they stay protected and hydrated through the hot summer months.