Lip Sun Protection: How to Keep Your Lips Safe from UV Damage

How to protect your lips from the sun

Are you ready to improve your lip health and make lip protection a central part of your daily skincare routine? Protecting your lips from the sun is key to a soft, healthy pout. Here are our best tips:

• Use SPF lip balm: Choose a lip balm with an SPF of at least 30. SPF 30 means that you’re protected against 97% of the sun’s UV rays. 

• Apply before sun exposure: For the best possible protection, apply your SPF lip balm before going out in the sun. 

• Reapply regularly: Reapply your SPF lip balm at least every two hours and immediately after eating or drinking. 

• Wear a hat: For added protection, wear a wide-brimmed hat that fully shades your face when spending extended time in the sun. 

• Avoid peak hours: Avoid the sun between 10 AM and 4 PM, when UV rays are strongest. 

• Seek shade: Spend time in the shade whenever possible. If you plan to spend significant time outdoors, bring an umbrella for portable shade.

Types of lip sun protection products

Effective lip sun protection comes in a range of forms. Chances are, your favorite lip product already has SPF in it! Here are some of the many different types of lip sun protection products available:

• SPF lip balms: SPF lip balms are a classic choice in the world of lip sun protection. Lip balms are thick, waxy lip products that lock in moisture and prevent dry, chapped lips. They’re often made from natural waxes, like beeswax, carnauba, coconut oil, or lanolin. Lip balms with SPF have the added benefit of sun protection. While most SPF lip balms are clear, some are tinted for a little bit of color. 

• SPF lipsticks: Did you know you can get sun protection in the form of lipstick? Lipsticks are a great way to enhance your lips with a pop of color. Use lipstick with SPF for a bolder lip with plenty of sun protection. 

• SPF lip glosses: Unlike lip balms and lipsticks, lip glosses are slick and thin. They’re perfect for adding a subtle hue and a lot of shine to your beauty regimen. SPF lip glosses are easy to apply on the go without the need for a mirror or a lot of precision. They’re an easy way to make your lips look great and keep them healthy and protected.

• Sunscreen: Just as you protect your skin with sunscreen, you can use sunscreen on your lips too. That said, a lip-specific product will help you get the best coverage and added lip-health benefits.

How to choose the right lip sun protection

Not all lip protection is created equal. When choosing a product to protect your lips, there are a few key elements to look for—and some to avoid. Choose the right solution for you by following these tips: 

• Choose SPF 30 or higher: According to the American Academy of Dermatology, your lip protection should offer a minimum of SPF 30. 

• Look for broad-spectrum protection: The sun emits two types of UV rays: UVA and UVB. UVB rays are the type of rays that create sunburns—but they’re not the only dangerous ones. UVA rays are the most prevalent form of UV rays. They can reach you when it’s cloudy or foggy and can even penetrate glass. UVA rays are the leading cause of premature aging. For protection from both types of UV rays, look for lip sunscreen labeled “broad spectrum.”

• Opt for mineral sunscreens: Sun protection can be achieved in two different ways: chemical or mineral sunscreen. Many sunscreens use chemicals to protect your skin from the sun. These chemicals absorb and neutralize UV rays but can also absorb into your skin. Mineral sunscreens contain minerals like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide that reflect UV rays away from your skin instead. 

• Avoid artificial fragrances: Did you know that artificial fragrances are the main cause of allergic reactions in skincare products? Fragrances are often derived from harsh chemicals and cause contact dermatitis for many—even those without sensitive skin.

Tips for applying lip sun protection

Lip sun protection isn’t just a matter of buying the right products but also using them correctly. Follow these steps to ensure correct application and maximum sun protection:

• Apply lip sun protection before going into the sun. 

• Cover your entire lip area, including the corners of your lips. 

Reapply sunscreen or protection products every 2 hours and more frequently–every 40 to 80 minutes–if eating, drinking, or sweating.

Common myths about lip sun protection

There’s a lot of misinformation floating around about lip sun protection. Let’s debunk common myths about sun protection and lip health:

• Myth: SPF is only necessary in the summer. Fact: SPF is necessary year-round. Skin damage is possible even when it’s foggy or cloudy—and even when you’re sitting indoors. The best rule of thumb? Wear lip sunscreen every day. 

• Myth: SPF lip products are enough for all-day protection. SPF lip products should be reapplied regularly, about every 2 hours. We’re constantly licking our lips, eating, and drinking, so SPF wears off our lips quite frequently. For the best lip sun protection, apply often. 

• Myth: I don’t need SPF if I just go outside for a little. Fact: You should wear SPF on your lips and body daily, regardless of your planned sun exposure. You can get sunburnt in as little as 15 minutes of sun exposure.

Our favorite lip sun protection products

Looking for lip sun protection products you’ll love? We have you covered:

Peptide Lip Shine SPF 30

Come for the all-mineral SPF 30 protection and enjoy the added bonus of lush lips. Achieve color and shine with optimal sun protection thanks to Peptide Lip Shine SPF 30. Nourish, soften, and smooth lips thanks to a combination of peptides, hyaluronic acid, and Vitamin E antioxidants.

How to use: Apply liberally 15 minutes before sun exposure. Reapply every two hours and after 40 minutes of swimming or sweating. Immediately reapply after towel drying. 

Sunforgettable^® Total Protection^® Color Balm SPF 50

Sunforgettable^® Total Protection Color Balm is a versatile tinted sunscreen balm for cheeks, lips, and eyelids. It features our innovative EnviroScreen Technology which goes above and beyond broad-spectrum UVA and UVB protection, guarding you against pollution, HEV (blue) light, and infrared radiation.

In gorgeous hues like blush, berry, and pink sky, this hydrating formula acts as a nourishing balm while adding flattering color to your lips and skin.

How to use: Apply directly to your lips before going into the sun. Reapply every two hours and after 40 minutes of swimming or sweating. Immediately reapply after towel drying. 

Keep your lips protected and looking great

Lip sun protection is essential for keeping your lips healthy, soft, and youthful-looking.

At Colorescience^®, we value incorporating sun protection into our mineral cosmetics. It isn’t enough to create a lip gloss or balm that looks beautiful when applied. We ensure it goes the extra mile with SPF that protects your lips from sun damage and premature aging.

Try our mineral lip protection today to see the difference.