Looking for ways to improve the appearance of your lips? SPF lip balm is one of beauty experts’ best-kept secrets. Though many people skip their lips when applying sunscreen, SPF protection provides major benefits. Here’s what you need to know if you’re interested in taking your lip care to the next level.
Why SPF protection is essential for your lips
Sunscreen is essential because it protects you from the damaging UV rays that the sun releases. Not only can UV exposure cause uncomfortable sunburns, but it can also cause long-term damage and premature aging.
While many people realize the importance of SPF protection for their face, they may not realize their lips are also vulnerable. The reality is that your lips are covered in skin just like the rest of your body, so they need protection too. In fact, your lips are even more at risk than other body parts. Since the skin on your lips is thinner, it burns more easily than the rest of your face.
3 benefits of SPF lip products
Lip balm with sunscreen is one of the most useful tools you can have. When you find a good product that combines SPF with lip balm, you can enjoy these benefits.
Prevents sunburn
SPF is ideal for blocking the UV rays that can cause burnt lips. You might not notice when your lips turn pink with a burn, but if the burn is severe enough, you’ll definitely feel it. Sunscreen lip balm helps you avoid painful tingling, itching, and peeling.
Reduces dryness and chapping
Another perk of SPF lip balm is that it functions just as well as regular lip balm. The moisturizing ingredients inside lip balm help to improve skin hydration. This ensures you get soft, full lips without any cracked skin or uncomfortable chapping.
Helps minimize fine lines
Lip balm with sunscreen is a useful option for those who don’t want a lot of lines on their lips. By protecting your lips from the sun, they can reduce your risk of wrinkles. Furthermore, the hydration from the balm can help to plump lips and reduce the appearance of fine lines.
What does it mean when lip balm has SPF?
SPF stands for sun protection factor, and it refers to the amount of time the sunscreen will block UV rays. Lip balm with SPF is a lip product that has been formulated to include protective ingredients. SPF lip balms usually contain ingredients similar to regular sunscreen.
However, on top of sun protection, they also provide all the benefits of normal lip balms. They can help hydrate and moisturize dry lips. Some may also change the color of your lips, add gloss to your lips, or provide other aesthetic benefits.
Tips for using SPF lip balm correctly
To get the full benefits of sunscreen lip balm, it’s important to use it properly. Here are some tips for protecting your lips with SPF lip balm.
How much SPF do lips need to be protected?
The Food and Drug Administration recommends that everyone use an SPF of at least 15. This blocks 93% of UV rays, so it can provide a decent amount of protection during daily activities. However, if you’re spending longer than 15 minutes in the sun, it’s smart to have a lip balm with an SPF closer to 30.
When should you use lip balm with SPF?
Anytime you’ll be outside, it’s useful to have lip balm with sun protection. You can start to get a sunburn in as little as 10 minutes, so make sure to use it whenever you’re spending significant time outdoors. You can also experience sun damage even when walking between buildings or driving a car, so you might want to consider making SPF lip balm a daily part of your routine.
How often should you reapply SPF lip balm?
The general recommendation is to reapply your lip balm sunscreen every two hours. Don’t forget that, if you’re sweating, eating, or drinking, your lip balm may wear off sooner. You may want to reapply after meals or swimming.
Frequently asked questions about SPF lip balm
If you’re looking to protect your lips with SPF lip balm, here are some important things to know.
Do all lip balms provide SPF protection?
The pigments and other ingredients in lip balm may possibly block some UV rays. However, unless a lip balm is specifically formulated with SPF, you shouldn’t assume it will protect your lips. Many standard lip balms are ineffective at preventing sun damage.
Is zinc oxide good for your lips?
Zinc oxide is very good at blocking sun damage. Look for a lip formulation that is tinted or includes moisturizing ingredients to avoid drying out your lips or leaving an unsightly white crust.
Can I wear lipstick over SPF lip balm?
If you plan on wearing both lipstick and SPF lip balm, apply the lip balm first. It applies a lightweight base for your lipstick without the lipstick destroying its ability to block UV rays.
Do I need SPF lip protection during winter?
Even during winter, a lip moisturizer with SPF is important. Though you might not notice the sun as much, it’s still very easy for it to burn your lips.
Browse the best SPF lip products for everyday use at Rodan + Fields
If you’re looking for the best lip balm with SPF, turn to Rodan + Fields. Our carefully formulated lip products are designed to provide the perfect combination of sun protection and beauty benefits. With our new Plumping Lip Oil SPF 28, you can enjoy fuller-looking lips while also preventing sun damage.
