# Good lipbalm.

Lips are very sensitive to UV rays and have no natural melanin protection. Always choose a lip balm with UVA and UVB blocking properties (SPF 30+) when possible to protect against sun damage, premature aging, and skin cancer. If possible, avoid chemical sun protection, perfumed, nano-based. Use **mineral** based lipbalms to minimize risks.

> Note: "natural" substances does not automatically mean "safe".

> ⚠️ Always check the ingredients of each product, it might contain other substances that you might be allergic too.

> Always wipe off the lipbalm after two hours with a tissue, and reapply a new coat. (to prevent photo-degradation and possible phototoxicity)

> Never lick your lips if applied, if so, spit it out. That also applies to zinc oxide balms and other mineral based ones.

> Quick reference list:

```
Good known SPF 30+ lipbalms (not extensive list, these received many good reviews)

- Laboratoires de Biarritz Lip Balm SPF30
- Hipi Faible Tinted Lip Balm SPF30
- Uriage Bariesun Moisturizing Lipstick SPF30 (warning: some perfume)
- Aesop Protective Lip Balm SPF30 (warning: some natural oils, check it first)

Safe alternatives for lip care:

- Pure petroleum jelly or beeswax products
- La Roche-Posay Cicaplast Lèvres (fragrance-free)
- Eucerin lip care (unfragranced versions)
- Bepanthen lip balm
- Products labeled "hypoallergenic" and "fragrance-free"

Pure petroleum jelly or beeswax products (no sunscreen)
- Simple, effective barrier protection
- No fragrance or allergens
- Very affordable

```

## DIY SPF30 lip balm

Useful, if you are allergic to most cremes, balms etc.

This is a simple, effective SPF30 lip balm recipe using minimal ingredients: a base, zinc oxide for UV protection, and optional antioxidant.

---

## Ingredients (for ~15 ml)

```
| Ingredient                                         | Amount    | Function                    |
| ---------------------------------------------------| --------- | --------------------------- |
| Petroleum jelly (Vaseline) or Cocoa Butter         | 8 g       | Base / smooth application   |
| Beeswax (optional for firmness)                    | 2 g       | Structure / hardness        |
| Jojoba or Sunflower Oil                            | 2 g       | Extra smoothness            |
| Zinc Oxide (non-nano, uncoated zinc oxide powder)  | 3 g       | SPF30 UV filter             |
| Vitamin E                                          | 2-3 drops | Antioxidant, preserves oils |
```

> Tip: 3 g of zinc oxide in 15 ml gives roughly SPF30-35. More zinc oxide increases SPF but reduces spreadability.

> Zinc Oxide **must be** non-nano, uncoated zinc oxide powder. (not all zinc oxide is the same)

---

### Instructions

1. **Melt the base**

   * Combine petroleum jelly, beeswax, and oil in a heatproof bowl.
   * Melt using a **double boiler** (bowl over simmering water), do not heat directly on flame.

2. **Add antioxidants**

   * Once melted, let the mixture cool slightly (<60°C) and stir in vitamin E.

3. **Add zinc oxide**

   * Slowly add zinc oxide powder while stirring continuously.
   * Ensure a **smooth, uniform mixture without clumps**.

4. **Pour and set**

   * Pour into a small jar or lip balm tube.
   * Let it solidify at room temperature or in the fridge for 10-15 minutes.

5. **Usage**

   * Apply a thin layer to lips.
   * Reapply every 2 hours or after eating/drinking.

---

### Tips for Best Results

* Use **non-nano zinc oxide** for safe, physical UV protection.
* Avoid adding fragrances to prevent allergic reactions.
* Store in a sealed container at room temperature; shelf life ~6 months.

---

Optional: For ultra-simple sensitive skin version, you can use just **petroleum jelly + zinc oxide + vitamin E**. This eliminates all other ingredients for maximum safety.

---

## List other commercial balms.

### Laboratoires de Biarritz Lip Balm SPF30
- Simple & effective
- Good price-quality ratio
- Fragrance-free formula

### Hipi Faible Tinted Lip Balm SPF30
- Light tint available
- Provides sun protection
- Suitable for sensitive skin

### Uriage Bariesun Moisturizing Lipstick SPF30
- Moisturizing formula
- Medical-grade sun protection
- Some perfume!

### Aesop Protective Lip Balm SPF30
- ⚠️ Warning: Contains some natural oils
- Check ingredients carefully before use
- May contain essential oils that trigger peru balsam allergy

## Basic fragrance-free alternatives (no SPF)

If SPF lip balms are unavailable or you need indoor lip care:

### Pure petroleum jelly or beeswax products
- Simple, effective barrier protection
- No fragrance or allergens
- Very affordable

### La Roche-Posay Cicaplast Lèvres
- Medical-grade lip repair
- Fragrance-free
- Excellent for damaged or irritated lips

### Eucerin lip care (unfragranced versions)
- Dermatologist-recommended
- Look specifically for "fragrance-free" or "sensitive" versions
- Avoid scented varieties

### Bepanthen lip balm
- Contains panthenol for healing
- Fragrance-free
- Good for cracked or dry lips

## What to look for when buying

### Safe labels:
- "Fragrance-free" or "Parfum-free"
- "Hypoallergenic"
- "For sensitive skin"
- "Without essential oils"
- SPF 30 or higher

### Avoid products with:
- "Parfum" or "Fragrance" on ingredient list
- Essential oils (cinnamon, clove, citrus, vanilla)
- Natural fragrance
- Listed allergens: Benzyl Alcohol, Geraniol, Linalool, Citral, Limonene
- "Unscented" (may still contain masking fragrance)

## Tips for daily use

1. Apply SPF lip balm before going outside, even on cloudy days
2. Reapply every 2 hours when in direct sun exposure
3. Keep multiple tubes in different locations (bag, desk, car)
4. Check expiration dates - sunscreen ingredients lose effectiveness over time
5. Patch test new products on a small area of lip first if you're unsure

## If you experience a reaction

1. Stop using the product immediately
2. Save the product to check ingredients
3. Apply plain petroleum jelly or hydrocortisone cream 0.5-1%
4. If reaction persists after a week, consult your doctor

Remember: Your lips deserve the same sun protection as your skin!