I Thought I Was Pro at Sun Protection, But Even I Was Forgetting This Very Important Step
With more and more people becoming aware of the importance of SPF, it's no wonder that we are stocking up on the best SPF products, from facial sunscreens to body sun creams and more. However, there's one product that really isn't talked about enough, and that's an SPF lip balm.
Yep, believe it or not, but our lips need just as much protection from the sun as anywhere else on our body. As a beauty editor who prides herself on wearing SPF every single day, even I had been forgetting this important step, but luckily for me, some of my favourite brands have created a range of dreamy lip products with added sun protection.
With the new season well and truly on its way, I thought it was time to put all of the best SPF lip balms to the test and speak to an expert about how (and why) we should be using these products daily. Just keep on scrolling...
I've been putting the most popular SPF lip balms to the test.
Do You Need to Wear SPF on Your Lips?You might be thinking, do you actually need to wear SPF on your lips? "Just like the skin around your eyes, the skin around your lips is thinner and more sensitive than the skin on the rest of your face," explains Heather Wish, skincare education manager at Paula’s Choice UK. "Proper lip care with mild but intensely nourishing ingredients is very important, alongside regular use of SPF." Yep, according to Wish, we need to be looking after our lips just as we would do with the rest of our face.
Should You Wear An SPF Lip Balm Every Day?Just like your usual facial SPF, Wish advises wearing an SPF lip balm every day. "SPF is vital for your skin health, as it defends against the damaging effects of UV rays," she explains. "It's important to remember that UV rays penetrate through clouds and windows – so be sure to wear your SPF on your whole face and neck (lips included) whether it's overcast or raining and whether you're inside or outside.
How Often Should You Apply an SPF Lip Balm?In terms of reapplying your SPF lip balm, this depends on your daily activities. "It depends on how long you’ll be in the sun and how long it lasts on your lips," Wish explains. "If you will be in direct sunlight, it can last for several hours but be sure to reapply once it begins to wear off."
The Best SPF Lip Balms, Tried and Tested By an Editor1. Hello Sunday The One For Your Lips Lip Balm SPF50
At Who What Wear UK, we know that beauty isn’t one-size-fits-all. Our editors have tested thousands of products, including skincare, makeup, hair and nails, over the years and work closely with trusted experts—dermatologists, make-up artists and leading industry insiders—to ensure every guide is well-researched, inclusive and relevant to you.
We focus on formulas that deliver, whether they’re affordable favourites or luxury investments. Our product selection is based on tangible results, ingredient know-how and what we’d truly recommend to a friend.
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