When you're picking out sunscreen for your lips, there are several things to consider that aren't as important when you're shopping around for an option for your body. One of those is the taste. If it's going on — and, let's face it, in — your mouth, you don't want it to taste bad, which is why the best lip sunscreens will usually have either a neutral or mild flavor. Taste preferences aside, the first factor to consider is what type of sunscreen to want to use.
Mineral versus chemical sunscreens
Generally speaking, there are two kinds of sunscreens — those that use chemicals such as avobenzone, octinoxate, octisalate, and oxybenzone to absorb UV rays before they can penetrate your skin and those that use minerals like zinc or titanium dioxide as a physical barrier to shieldyour skin.
Some folks prefer sunscreen with chemicals because it's often more lightweight and easy to rub into your skin — mineral sunscreen, in contrast, tends to be thicker and sometimes leaves a white cast. That said, some people choose to avoid the chemicals in traditional sunscreen, either for environmental or personal reasons. It's really a matter of personal preference.
Another thing to consider is texture. You want lip sunscreen to be light enough that it doesn't feel sticky or goopy on your mouth yet thick enough to stay on. If it's water-resistant, even better.
Now that you have a better idea of how to shop for the best lip sunscreen, check out the top options below.
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