IE 11 is not supported. For an optimal experience visit our site on another browser.

Are you applying SPF to your lips? Experts share why you should be, plus lip balms starting at $2

Pucker up for these protective SPF lip balms.
Vivian Le / TODAY
/ Source: TODAY

If you've ever had a sunburn in a strange place, like the part in your hair or the tops of your toes, you know all too well how hard it can be to remember to apply sunscreen everywhere it needs to go.

Even once you think you've covered all of your sunscreen bases, it's important to give your lips some special attention as well by coating your kisser thoroughly with a lip balm with SPF. We asked dermatologists why you should be using them, how to find the best SPF lip balm and rounded up a few options for you to choose from.

Why do you need lip balm with SPF? | What type of sunscreen should you use? | SPF lip balms | Meet the experts

Why do you need SPF for your lips?

"Lips are often left without sunscreen," Dr. Paul Jarrod Frank, a cosmetic dermatologist and author of "The Pro-Aging Playbook," tells Shop TODAY. "We are seeing an increase of skin cancer and precancerous conditions that happen with excessive sun exposure and typically show up around the corners of the mouth."

Frank warns skin cancer on or around the lip can be tough to treat because there isn't a lot of excess tissue to play with in the area, making it essential to use that SPF lip balm to protect your skin.

"Using sunscreen on your lips is so important for preventing surgical procedures that could leave you with a scar," he adds.

What type of sunscreen do I need for my lips?

"I typically recommend a sunscreen that is specific for the lips, which has zinc and an SPF of 30," Frank says. "Like all sunscreens, you need to reapply every two to three hours, and if you exercise or are drinking, you may need to reapply a little more frequently."

According to board-certified dermatologist Dr. Peter Young, your lips need SPF under your lip color, too.

"It may be more convenient to use lipstick containing SPF, which is readily available at most department stores and pharmacies," he suggests.

Best SPF lip balms to shop

Burt's Bees 100% Natural All-Weather SPF Lip Balm

What we like
  • Non-sticky 
  • "It feels moisturizing," according to reviewers
Something to note
  • Left a white residue
  • Felt thick to some

Whether it's winter or summer, Burt's Bees formula boasts 100% effectiveness against ultraviolet rays. This lip balm will both care for your pucker and revitalize your lips.

Associate editor Allie Wise uses the SPF 30 version of this lip balm, noting that her family has been using it for years and it has yet to disappoint. She adds that it's "super hydrating and effective."

Zealios LipGuard SPF 28

What we like
  • Not too greasy
  • "Stays on and protects without any weird taste or feel" 
Something to note
  • Lips felt soothed, but didn't help with chapped lips overall

This inexpensive lip balm will make your lips super soft thanks to the added shea butter, coconut and jojoba oils. The SPF balm has a lip applicator that’s easy to use and the best part is that the formula is reef-safe.

Aquaphor Lip Repair Lip Balm with SPF 30 Sunscreen

What we like
  • Doesn't have a weird taste compared to others
  • "Goes on nicely" and lasts longer
Something to note
  • Those with sensitive skin noted irritation, allergic reactions for some

Chapped lips and dry mouth? Hydrate your kisser with this lip balm containing shea butter, vitamin E and castor seed oil. The sunscreen is great for swimmers that need to keep their skin safe under the sun.

It's a go-to for Shop TODAY associate SEO editor Fran Sales. Assistant partnerships editor Lauren Witonsky is a fan of the stick version of this sunscreen lip balm because her hair doesn't stick to it.

Sun Bum Lip Balm SPF 30

What we like
  • Scent and flavor aren't overpowering
  • No chalky residue and provides "great protection" 
Something to note
  • Greasy texture

Loaded with moisturizing ingredients like aloe and vitamin E, this inexpensive sunscreen balm provides lasting protection that heals and nourishes lips while you wear it.

This is another favorite of Hoeger and market assistant Audrey Ekman. "I'm a fan of Sun Bum's lip balm!! Especially because it doesn't taste medicinal like other lip balms!" Hoeger raves.

Banana Boat Sport Ultra Sunscreen Lip Balm SPF 40

What we like
  • "Nice, light flavor" 
  • Not oily or greasy
Something to note
  • Absorbs quickly for some

This Banana Boat balm offers broad-spectrum UVA/UVB protection and moisturization for up to 12 hours, according to the brand. With a two-pack of this SPF 40 balm, you'll be covered at the beach and the pool!

Jack Black Intense Therapy SPF 25 Lip Balm

What we like
  • "Cooling feeling," lasts a long time
  • Good size
Something to note
  • Reviewers felt like they had to keep applying for desired amount

Heal any lip discomfort with this lip balm from Jack Black formulated with shea butter and avocado oil. Your skin might feel irritated due to sun exposure, but this balm will refresh your smile with its green tea extract, vitamin E and ginger combo.

Neutrogena Revitalizing SPF 20 Lip Balm

What we like
  • Color "looks great and natural"
  • Keeps lips soft
Something to note
  • Doesn't last long

Add a hint of color while protecting your lips with this reliable lip balm. Neutrogena's formula adds a healthier-looking shine to your smile with six moisturizing shades.

Cay Skin Isle SPF 30 Lip Balm

What we like
  • "Beautiful balm and gloss texture"
  • Long lasting
Something to note
  • Some reviewers note that the scent and taste is overwhelming
  • Applicator issues

Filled with soothing ingredients such as vitamin E, sea moss and aloe stem cells, this lip balm promises a non-sticky finish. It comes in three colors: clear, rose and berry.

EltaMD UV Lip Balm BroadSpectrum SPF 36

What we like
  • "No gross aftertaste" 
  • Leaves a "nice clean feel" on your lips
Something to note
  • Might leave a white residue
  • Gritty texture

This UV lip balm from EltaMD contains SPF 36 protection with water-resistant properties to keep your lips ultra-hydrated. The combination of zinc oxide, antioxidants and vitamins C and E offer conditioning and long-lasting moisture.

It's a favorite of Shop TODAY senior social media editor Kate McCarthy. "It isn't sticky or greasy and I'm not a big fan of flavors so I like using this," she says.

Coola Mineral Liplux Balm SPF 30

What we like
  • "Great shine and color" 
  • Stays on for a long time
Something to note
  • "Unpleasant odor," according to some reviewers
  • Chalky texture

Choose from four shades of this tinted SPF 30 lip balm, which contains organic cupuaçu butter and mongongo oil to keep lips smooth and help prevent signs of aging. Sales says this is her pick when she's "feeling fancy."

Supergoop! Lipscreen Sheer SPF 30

What we like
  • Lightweight, hydrating
  • Pleasant smell
Something to note
  • Complaints of unplesant taste

Supergoop has seemed to master the sunscreen space and has gotten everyone hooked in the process. Shop TODAY editors are no different, with associate editor Emma Stessman raving about this sheer-tinted find.

"I love this lip balm," she says. "It’s super lightweight, moisturizing and smells really good, too! It leaves a nice light glossy sheen on your lips. And while some lip balms leave my lips feeling more dry after an hour or two, this one doesn’t."

Skin Authority SkinSuit Lip SPF 30

What we like
  • Can be applied as a cheek tint as well
  • Has staying power; provides a "soft and shiny" color
Something to note
  • A little pricey for size of product

This sheer, hydrating SPF 30 lip balm contains natural botanicals said to hydrate and minimize lip lines. It'll also shield your pucker from pollutants, blue light and activity-induced heat.

Supergoop Play Lip Shield Trio SPF 30

What we like
  • Doesn't leave a white residue
  • High quality ingredients
Something to note
  • A bit pricey for the size

One for your purse, one for your beach bag and one to take poolside! Another winner from Supergoop, this three-pack of moisturizing SPF 30 lip balm is made with coconut, avocado and grape seed oil. It's also water- and sweat-resistant for up to 80 minutes of activity, according to the brand.

Dr. Paul Jarrod Frank, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist, author and founder of his namesake skin care brand.

Dr. Peter Young, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist and the medical director of Thirty Madison's Skin, Hair and Nails Institute, a platform that offers virtual patient care.