Shiseido Sun Protection Lip Treatment SPF 36 PA++

A highly nourishing lip balm that defends against powerful UVA/UVB rays while ensuring optimal moisture balance. Glides on smoothly to give lips softness and luminosity without any filmy residue or sensation of heaviness. Replenishes moisture instantly to reverse dryness and protect against loss of radiance. May be worn alone or under lipstick. Recommended by the Skin Cancer Foundation as an effective UV sunscreen.

Ingredients :
Active: Octinoxate (7.4%), Titanium Dioxide (5%), Other: Trioctanoin, Polyglyceryl-2 Triisostearate, Triisostearin, Hydrogenated Polyisobutene, Polyethylene, Peg/Ppg-36/41 Dimethyl Ether, Microcrystalline Wax, Stearyl Glycyrrhetinate, Glutathione, Zinc Myristate, Thiotaurine, Sodium Acetylated Hyaluronate, Tocopherol, Diisostearyl Malate, Sodium Magnesium Silicate, Glycerin, Bht, Fragrance

I picked up this lip sunscreen from Sephora before leaving for my Caribbean vacation. I needed something more than the standard SPF15 for sunny beach days and this was the only heavy-duty lip sunscreen product (with physical UV filters) I could find. It’s a bit expensive but I figured it’s worth the extra cost for the serious sun protection it offers.

What I like :

Smooth, lightweight texture that doesn’t feel waxy or sticky
Moisturizing formula
High SPF (broad spectrum UVA/UVB protection)
Nice scent (not strong)
No unpleasant sunscreen taste
Good staying power
Chic packaging

What I didn’t like :

Leaves a prominent white tint on lips so this lip balm can’t be used alone without a lipstick/lipgloss
Pricey ($21)

Would I repurchase Shiseido Sun Protection Lip Treatment SPF 36 ? Not sure about that. It’s a great product overall as it moisturizes well and protects lips from damaging UV rays with a high SPF, the white cast is kind of a deal breaker. I wouldn’t mind paying the high price but expect the formula to be more cosmetically elegant. I will continue using this though until I can find something better.

Shiseido Sun Protection Lip Treatment SPF 36 is available at Sephora

So, for now my search for a lip balm with high SPF (mineral-based) continues……and of course, it would be even better if I can find something that’s more natural.

Do you have a favorite SPF lip balm? Would love to hear your recs….