Still Using Plain Lip Balm? Here’s Why Your Lips Need SPF Every Single Day
You’ve mastered the art of slathering sunscreen on your face. You probably even remember your ears and neck. But there’s one tiny spot most of us forget every single day: our lips.
That’s exactly why SPF lip balms — or lipscreens — are suddenly everywhere. Dermatologists have been recommending them for years, beauty creators can’t stop talking about them, and Google searches for “lip balm with SPF” have surged. Turns out, your favourite tinted balm might be moisturising your lips, but it isn’t protecting them from the sun.
Why Your Lips Need Sunscreen Too
Unlike the rest of your skin, your lips contain very little melanin — the pigment that naturally helps defend against UV rays. That makes them far more vulnerable to sunburn, pigmentation, dryness, premature ageing and, in rare cases, skin cancer.
Even worse? Glossy lip products can make things worse by reflecting and intensifying sunlight on your lips. So while they may look great in selfies, they aren’t exactly your best friend on a sunny day.
What Exactly Is A Lipscreen?
Think of it as your regular lip balm that went to skincare school.
A lipscreen combines nourishing ingredients with broad-spectrum SPF protection to shield lips from both UVA rays (which cause ageing) and UVB rays (which cause sunburn). The best formulas are lightweight, hydrating, comfortable to wear and invisible under lipstick.
Why Everyone Is Switching To SPF Lip Balms
A good SPF lip balm does much more than moisturise. It helps:
Prevent painful sunburn and peeling
Reduce tanning and lip pigmentation
Keep lips soft and hydrated
Prevent dryness and cracking
Slow down fine lines caused by UV exposure
Lower long-term sun damage risk
Work seamlessly under lipstick or gloss
The Best SPF Lip Balms To Add To Your Bag
Elizabeth Arden Eight Hour Cream Nourishing Lip Balm SPF 20
A cult favourite for good reason. Deeply moisturising with everyday SPF protection and a luxurious texture.
Foxtale Brightening Lip Balm SPF 30
Packed with peptides, Vitamin C and hyaluronic acid, this multitasker hydrates, brightens and protects while adding a glossy tint.
Kiehl’s Butterstick Lip Treatment SPF 25
Made with coconut oil and lemon butter, this buttery formula melts into lips while offering reliable sun protection.
Paula’s Choice Lipscreen SPF 50
One of the highest SPF options available. Lightweight, invisible and perfect for long hours outdoors.
Bobbi Brown Lip Balm SPF 15
A nourishing blend of avocado, olive and wheat germ oils with subtle SPF protection for everyday wear.
FAQs
1. Do lips really need sunscreen?
Yes. Lips have very little melanin, making them far more susceptible to UV damage than the rest of your skin.
2. Is Vaseline enough for sun protection?
No. Regular Vaseline moisturises lips but contains no SPF unless you specifically buy a version with sun protection.
3. Can I apply face sunscreen on my lips?
You can, but most facial sunscreens aren’t formulated for lips and may taste unpleasant or cause irritation. SPF lip balms are a much better choice.
4. Is lip balm with SPF enough?
Yes, as long as it offers broad-spectrum protection (SPF 30 or higher is ideal) and you reapply it regularly.
