Standard lip balms protect against dryness. This one goes further. Built around two oils with documented natural sun-protective properties — Organic Sesame Oil and Red Raspberry Seed Oil — and boosted with Tiosol for meaningful SPF performance, this balm is formulated specifically for high-exposure conditions: skiing, hiking, outdoor sports, or any activity where lips are exposed to intense or reflected sunlight for extended periods.
It applies smoothly, holds its shape in warm conditions thanks to a combined beeswax and rice bran wax structure, and delivers genuine protection without synthetic sunscreen chemicals.
The Ingredients
Beeswax (30%) forms the structural base of the balm — providing the firm, stick-compatible texture that holds up in outdoor conditions and warm pockets. At 30%, it gives the balm a solid set without making it waxy or uncomfortable to apply.
Sesame Oil (20%) is the primary carrier. Cold-pressed from organic sesame seeds and deodorised, this version has virtually no scent and a pale yellow colour that does not affect the finished product. Its balanced oleic and linoleic acid profile absorbs readily into lip skin, providing moisture without greasiness. Its naturally occurring sesamol and sesamin compounds contribute mild antioxidant activity, and its natural SPF of approximately 4 adds a baseline layer of UV protection to the formula.
Rice Bran Wax (3%) works alongside beeswax as a texture modifier — it raises the melting point slightly and gives the balm a smoother, more polished finish on application. It also contributes its own emollient properties and adds a subtle gloss to the surface of the lip.
Red Raspberry Seed Oil (35%) is the formula's most significant SPF contributor among the carrier oils. Its naturally occurring tocopherols and high essential fatty acid content make it one of the most skin-nourishing oils available for lip care — and its broad-spectrum UV-absorbing capacity, while not a replacement for regulated sunscreens, adds meaningful protection in combination with Tiosol.
Tiosol (10%) is the formula's dedicated SPF active — a titanium dioxide-based ingredient designed for cosmetic formulations that provides physical broad-spectrum sun protection. Its inclusion at 10% is what elevates this balm from a lip care product with incidental UV benefits to a purpose-formulated sun lip balm suitable for skiing and outdoor sport conditions.
Vitamin E (1.5%) protects the formula's oils from oxidation and delivers direct antioxidant benefit to the lips. The 0.5% essential oil slot is optional — peppermint is the most natural choice for a sport-focused lip balm, with its cooling sensation and clean aroma. Vanilla absolute works well for a warmer, more classic lip balm character.
The Recipe
Sun Lip Balm
Yield: 100g — scale as needed
Suitable for: lip balm tins, tubes, or small pots
Stage 1 (heat until melted)
Beeswax — 30g
Sesame Oil (Organic) — 20g
Rice Bran Wax — 3g
Stage 2 (below 40°C)
Red Raspberry Seed Oil — 35g
Tiosol — 10g
Vitamin E — 1.5g
Essential Oils of your choice — 0.5g
Total: 100g
Method:
Melt all Stage 1 ingredients together in a double boiler, stirring until fully liquid and combined. Remove from heat and continue stirring as the mixture cools. Once below 40°C, add the Stage 2 ingredients and stir thoroughly to ensure the Tiosol is evenly dispersed throughout the balm — uneven distribution will result in inconsistent SPF performance. Pour immediately into tins or tubes before the balm begins to set. Leave to cool completely before sealing and labelling.
How to Use It
Apply generously to lips before sun exposure and reapply regularly, especially after eating or drinking. For skiing or high-altitude activities where UV intensity is significantly higher than at sea level, reapply every hour or after any prolonged contact with snow or water.
Storage and Shelf Life
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. The Vitamin E and the natural stability of beeswax give this formula good longevity — expect 12 months from production under good storage conditions. Avoid leaving in a hot car or direct sun, as the beeswax base will soften above approximately 60°C.