The Best SPF Lip Balms for Daily Sun Protection!

We might be pretty good about applying sunscreen to our face, chest, and body, but most people forget their lips. According to my dermatologist, that’s a big mistake. Your lips are one of the most vulnerable spots for UV damage, and yes, you can absolutely get skin cancer there. That’s why I never skip SPF lip balms anymore. If you want daily sun protection that feels good, layers well, and actually works, here are two I’ve personally tested and keep reaching for.

After trying my fair share of SPF lip balms, I narrowed it down to two that truly work for me. Most others tasted odd, felt overly waxy, or wore off within minutes. I was also selective: I didn’t want anything chalky, sticky, or that left a weird residue. The product had to feel good, layer well throughout the day, and be easy to reapply without breaking the bank.

Here are my two go-to picks:

EltaMD UV Lip Balm Broad-Spectrum SPF 36

This one is my top pick for a reason. It glides on smoothly and avoids that typical sunscreen aftertaste some SPF lip balms have. The finish is natural—not too glossy or too matte—and it hydrates without feeling sticky.

While it’s not fragrance-free, the light minty scent is refreshing and hasn’t caused any irritation for me—making it a great option even for sensitive lips.

What I love most? The SPF 36. Most lip balms top out at SPF 15 or 20, so this feels like real protection, especially on days when I’ll be outside longer than usual. I also appreciate the added antioxidants and nourishing ingredients like vitamin E, which help support and repair the delicate skin on the lips.

O’Keeffe’s Lip Repair SPF 35

This one genuinely surprised me. It’s affordable, no-frills, and it works even when my lips are cracked, dry, or feeling extra sensitive from the elements. With SPF 35, it offers higher protection than most drugstore options and holds up well throughout the day without constant reapplication.

There’s a very faint scent, nothing overpowering. The texture is smooth and protective without being greasy. While it does have a slightly waxy feel, it’s not bothersome. If you’re looking for something simple that gets the job done, this one’s a solid pick. It’s also great for quick, on-the-go application.

What to Expect When You Apply

EltaMD’s formula is mineral-rich, so it can leave a slight white cast at first, but with a little blending, it fades as it absorbs into the lips. O’Keeffe’s is more neutral in appearance and has a slightly waxier texture—but again, it’s not bothersome to me. Both work well under makeup or worn alone, depending on your preference. I genuinely love them both.

Cruelty-Free and Vegan Considerations

It’s important to note that while both products are effective for sun protection, their cruelty-free and vegan statuses differ. O’Keeffe’s Lip Repair SPF 35 is cruelty-free and does not involve animal testing. However, it is not vegan because it contains beeswax, an animal-derived ingredient.

EltaMD UV Lip Balm SPF 36 is not considered cruelty-free. The brand distributes products in markets where animal testing is required, so it cannot be classified as cruelty-free. Additionally, EltaMD products are not marketed as vegan.

If cruelty-free or vegan formulations are a priority for you, keep these factors in mind when choosing an SPF lip balm.

When I Use SPF Lip Balms

• First thing in the morning (before makeup or lip color)
• Before sunny outdoor activities, walks, or errands
• Every time I reapply sunscreen to my face, I treat my lips the same way

Conclusion

If you’ve struggled to find an SPF lip balm that feels good and actually protects, these two are worth trying. It’s a reliable, affordable backup I use every day.

Your lips deserve the same consistent SPF care as the rest of your skin—not just for comfort, but to help protect against skin cancer caused by sun exposure. Once you make it a habit, you’ll wonder why you didn’t start sooner.

If you’re working on building a well-rounded sun protection routine, you might also like my post on why daily sunscreen is essential no matter the season.

Have you tried either of these? Or do you have any favorite SPF lip balms of your own? Let me know. I’m always looking to discover new SPF lip balms to try.

As always, thank you for reading!

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