Aesop Protective Lip Balm SPF30 Review

Aesop Protective Lip Balm SPF30
5.0
/ 10
Moisturizing
0.0 Humectancy icon Humectancy
10.0 Occlusivity icon Occlusivity
Rich Skin Soothing icon
in Skin Soothers
30
SPF icon
SPF
Ingredients

Aesop Protective Lip Balm SPF30 Ingredients

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Full Ingredient List (INCI):

Ricinus Communis (Castor) Seed Oil, Jojoba Esters, Pentaerythrityl Tetraisostearate, Euphorbia Cerifera (Candelilla) Wax, Zinc Oxide, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil, Tocopherol, Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil, Glyceryl Behenate, Copernicia Cerifera (Carnauba) Wax, Diethylamino Hydroxybenzoyl Hexyl Benzoate, Bis-Ethylhexyloxyphenol Methoxyphenyl Triazine, Citrus Tangerina (Tangerine) Peel Oil, Hydrogenated Castor Oil, Glyceryl Isostearate, Polyhydroxystearic Acid, Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) Oil, Cananga Odorata Flower Oil, Limonene, Linalool, Benzyl Benzoate, Geraniol, Benzyl Salicylate, Citral, Citronellol
Review

Does Aesop Protective Lip Balm SPF30 Work?

 
According to CreamScan's analysis of the ingredient list, here’s what Aesop Protective Lip Balm SPF30 has to offer:
 
✅ Strong occlusive moisturizing. This exceptionally occlusive moisturizer, ideal for dry and very dry skin, has a moderate moisturizing rating of 5.0 out of 10, impaired by the absence of humectants.
✅ Soothing: Aesop Protective Lip Balm SPF30 contains a high concentration of soothing ingredients, which may help to reduce irritation and calm the skin.
✅ Moderate to high sun protection for daily outdoor activities.

  

Key Benefits of Aesop Protective Lip Balm SPF30

 
These are the key benefits you can expect from using Aesop Protective Lip Balm SPF30:
 

🔵🔵🔵 Exceptionally Rich Moisturizer with the Right Occlusivity for Very Dry Skin

According to CreamScan analysis, Aesop Protective Lip Balm SPF30 is quite moisturizing, with a moisturizing rating of 5.0 out of 10.

Is it more humectant or occlusive? It is purely occlusive. It has zero Humectancy (we didn't find any humectant ingredients on the ingredient list) and a maximum Occlusivity of 10 out of 10, primarily due to the high content of Ricinus Communis (Castor) Seed Oil (est. ≈45.0%), Jojoba Esters (est. ≈22.0%) and Pentaerythrityl Tetraisostearate (est. ≈11.0%).

This type of product, when used as a standalone moisturizer, can deliver an exceptional level of occlusive hydration that is adequate for dry to very skin. The occlusive profile of Aesop Protective Lip Balm SPF30 suggests a rich, thick texture, making it perfectly suited for dry skin.

Please refer to the Ratings section below for details of the moisturizing rating calculation.

🔴 Skin Soothing and Calming Potential

Based on the ingredient list analysis, Aesop Protective Lip Balm SPF30 is rich (> 5%) in soothing ingredients, particularly Jojoba Esters (est. ≈22.0%).

When applied to the skin, compounds of soothing ingredients, such as triglycerides, phospholipids, fatty acids, phenolic compounds, and antioxidants, work together to soothe the skin through various mechanisms: reducing inflammation, promoting wound healing, repairing the skin barrier, and providing antimicrobial and antioxidant activities.

☀️☀️ Moderate to High Sun Protection for Daily Outdoor Activities

With an SPF of 30, Aesop Protective Lip Balm SPF30 provides moderate to high sun protection, making it suitable for daily use during moderate sun exposure, such as commuting or light outdoor activities.

This level of SPF offers excellent defense against UVB rays, blocking up to 97% of harmful radiation. When labeled as broad-spectrum, these products also protect against UVA rays, which are responsible for skin aging and hyperpigmentation.

📌 For optimal protection, choose products labeled broad-spectrum to ensure defense against both UVA rays, which contribute to skin aging and pigmentation, and UVB rays that cause sunburn.

This level of SPF works well for skin types mildly prone to sunburn. It is particularly suitable for low-to-moderate UV index environments and non-tropical climates. However, it is not recommended for prolonged outdoor exposure or intense UV conditions. Reapplication every two hours is essential to maintain effectiveness.

📌 Please note that this is not a complete list of benefits. We are in the process of enhancing our model to incorporate anti-pigmentation, exfoliation and anti-acne ratings.

Things to Be Aware Of: Aesop Protective Lip Balm SPF30

 
CreamScan identified a few things to consider before adding Aesop Protective Lip Balm SPF30 to your skincare routine:
 

⚠️ Best for Very Dry Skin - May Be Too Thick for Other Skin Types

With exceptional occlusivity, this product is optimal for moisturizing dry and very dry skin but may be too thick for other skin types, including normal, and especially combination and oily skin.

If you have oily, combination, or normal skin and are considering purchasing this product for the first time, it might be a good idea to try a sample before buying.

⚠️ Needs to Be Paired with Extra Humectants for Optimal Moisturizing Efficacy

An ideal moisturizer for any skin type should balance the right level of occlusivity (depending on skin type) with a significant amount of humectants, while Aesop Protective Lip Balm SPF30 contains no humectants at all.

People with dry skin would definitely benefit from adding water-binding humectants to their moisturizing routine for effective dual-action moisturizing. If this is your only moisturizer, it may be worth including a humectant-rich product, such as a serum, in your skincare routine.

Pros & Cons of Aesop Protective Lip Balm SPF30

 
Here’s an overview of the pros and cons of Aesop Protective Lip Balm SPF30 to help you decide if it’s the right choice for your skincare routine:
 

🟩 Pros:

Exceptionally rich moisturizer with the right level of occlusivity to moisturize dry to very dry skin
✅ Potentially soothing, as it contains a high concentration of soothing Jojoba Esters
Provides moderate to high sun protection, suitable for light outdoor activities in non-tropical climates
 

⭕ Cons: 

⚠️ May feel too rich and thick on skin types other than dry
⚠️ Only if used as a standalone moisturizer - needs to be paired with extra humectants for optimal moisturizing efficacy
   

Summary: Aesop Protective Lip Balm SPF30

 
Based on the ingredient list analysis, CreamScan AI suggests that Aesop Protective Lip Balm SPF30
, as a moisturizer, provides an exceptional level of occlusive hydration that is adequate for dry to very skin, delivered in a rich, thick texture.
 
With a high concentration of soothing ingredients, Aesop Protective Lip Balm SPF30 has the potential to calm and comfort irritated skin. Whether you’re experiencing redness, irritation, or general sensitivity, its soothing properties may help restore balance and provide relief.
 
With an SPF of 30, Aesop Protective Lip Balm SPF30 offers moderate to high sun protection, appropriate for light outdoor activities in non-tropical climates.
 
That said, there are some things about Aesop Protective Lip Balm SPF30 worth noting.
 
With its high occlusivity, Aesop Protective Lip Balm SPF30 is ideal for dry skin but may feel too thick on other skin types. If you have oily, combination, or normal skin, it’s a good idea to try a sample before purchasing.
 
If you use this product as your only moisturizer in a routine, please note that it doesn’t contain any humectants. Regardless of your skin type, humectants are vital for optimal moisturizing efficacy. Therefore, pairing Aesop Protective Lip Balm SPF30 with a humectant-rich product, such as a serum, can be highly beneficial for your skincare routine.
 
📌 Fact check. At CreamScan, we are committed to accuracy and fairness. If you spot any errors or something that doesn’t seem right, please click here to let us know. We regularly update the ingredient lists and monitor the latest research on ingredient efficacy to ensure that our information remains as complete and precise as possible. The information provided here is for informational purposes only and does not substitute professional advice. We do not guarantee the efficacy or safety of any product, as individual results may vary.

 

Ingredient Breakdown

Est. % Ingredient Origin Functions
45
22
11
6
4
3
2
1.5
1
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.2
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.15
0.3
Est. %
Ricinus Communis (Castor) Seed Oil
Function:
Origin:
Jojoba Esters
Function:
Origin:
Pentaerythrityl Tetraisostearate
Function:
Origin:
Euphorbia Cerifera (Candelilla) Wax
Function:
Origin:
Zinc Oxide
Function:
Origin:
Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil
Function:
Origin:
Tocopherol
Function:
Origin:
Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil
Function:
Origin:
Glyceryl Behenate
Function:
Origin:
Copernicia Cerifera (Carnauba) Wax
Function:
Origin:
Diethylamino Hydroxybenzoyl Hexyl Benzoate
Function:
Origin:
Bis-Ethylhexyloxyphenol Methoxyphenyl Triazine
Function:
Origin:
Citrus Tangerina (Tangerine) Peel Oil
Function:
Origin:
Hydrogenated Castor Oil
Function:
Origin:
Glyceryl Isostearate
Function:
Origin:
Polyhydroxystearic Acid
Function:
Origin:
Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) Oil
Function:
Origin:
Cananga Odorata Flower Oil
Function:
Origin:
Limonene
Function:
Origin:
Linalool
Function:
Origin:
Benzyl Benzoate
Function:
Origin:
Geraniol
Function:
Origin:
Benzyl Salicylate
Function:
Origin:
Citral
Function:
Origin:
Citronellol
Function:
Origin:

Ratings

All humectants
0.0
None
Benchmark
10
All occlusives
91.1
45.0
22.0
11.0
6.0
3.0
2.0
1.5
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
20
Moisturizing rating
5.0
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Raiting
Humectancy All humectants 0.0 10
0.0
None
Occlusivity All occlusives 91.1 20
10.0
45.0
22.0
11.0
6.0
3.0
2.0
1.5
0.3
0.3
Moisturizing rating
5.0
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Humectancy
None
All humectants 0.0 10
0.0
All humectants
0.0
None
Benchmark
10
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Occlusivity
45
22
11
6
3
2
1.5
0.3
0.3
All occlusives 91.1 20
10.0
All occlusives
91.1
45.0
22.0
11.0
6.0
3.0
2.0
1.5
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
20
Ingredient
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
when present at, %
in this formula est. %
Rating
None
Total
0
None
Anti-wrinkle rating
0
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark
Rich in Antioxidants
2
All antioxidants 2 3 No
All antioxidants
2
Tocopherol
2
Benchmark
3
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark
Rich in Soothing
22
All soothing 22 5 Rich in soothing
All soothing
22
22
Benchmark
5

Ingredients explained

Ricinus Communis (Castor) Seed Oil
Est. %45
Function
Origin
Ricinus Communis (Castor) Seed OilA fatty oil extracted from the seeds of the castor bean plant with very unique fatty acid composition. It is used in skincare as an occlusive moisturizer and emollient that leaves the skin feeling soft and silky after application.
Jojoba Esters
Est. %22
Function
Origin
Jojoba EstersA mixture of various wax esters from jojoba oil. It is used in skincare products as a fantastic emollient, soothing, and occlusive moisturizing agent that won't leave a sticky, oily feeling on the skin.
Pentaerythrityl Tetraisostearate
Est. %11
Function
Origin
Pentaerythrityl TetraisostearateAn emollient ester with high gloss and thickening properties.
Euphorbia Cerifera (Candelilla) Wax
Est. %6
Function
Origin
Euphorbia Cerifera (Candelilla) WaxA thick wax obtained from the stems of the Candelilla, or wax plant that is native to Mexico and the southern USA. Its stems are covered in wax to protect the plant from water loss. It is an occlusive moisturizing and emollient ingredient.
Zinc Oxide
Est. %4
Function
Origin
Zinc OxideA white mineral powder mainly used in skincare as a physical sunscreen. It protects against UVA light that leads to visible signs of aging, including wrinkles and fine lines. Zinc oxide can also be used as a colorant to enhance the whiteness of a product.
Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil
Est. %3
Function
Origin
Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed OilA fatty oil expressed from sunflower seeds and one of the most commonly used oils in skincare. It has great emollient and occlusive moisturizing properties. Sunflower oil is one of the richest sources of vitamin E – an important skin antioxidant.
Tocopherol
Est. %2
Function
Origin
Tocopherol

Simply another name for vitamin E. Tocopherol is a fantastic ingredient and especially beneficial for dry and inflamed skin. It has occlusive moisturizing, emollient, antioxidant, and photoprotective properties.

Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil
Est. %1.5
Function
Origin
Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed OilA liquid plant wax, also known as Jojoba oil, pressed from the seeds of Simmondsia chinensis. These seeds can contain up to 50% of liquid wax. It is used as an occlusive moisturizer, emollient, and emulsifier.
Glyceryl Behenate
Est. %1
Function
Origin
Glyceryl BehenateA naturally-derived or synthetically produced emollient that can help create oil gels. It provides a soft feeling to the skin, improving product spread and reducing tackiness.
Copernicia Cerifera (Carnauba) Wax
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Copernicia Cerifera (Carnauba) WaxObtained from the leaves of Carnauba wax palm, this occlusive, emollient, and film-forming wax is commonly used in lip products. It is comprised mainly of various wax esters and is one of the hardest and most resistant plant waxes.
Diethylamino Hydroxybenzoyl Hexyl Benzoate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Diethylamino Hydroxybenzoyl Hexyl Benzoate
Bis-Ethylhexyloxyphenol Methoxyphenyl Triazine
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Bis-Ethylhexyloxyphenol Methoxyphenyl TriazineA synthetic "chemical" sunscreen ingredient that protects against UV damage and offers better stability and safety compared to some other traditional organic suncreen ingredients.
Citrus Tangerina (Tangerine) Peel Oil
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Citrus Tangerina (Tangerine) Peel Oil

A fragrant oil extracted from tangerine peels that, like other citrus peels, contains a citrusy-scented phytochemical known as limonene.

Hydrogenated Castor Oil
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Hydrogenated Castor OilA processed, butter-like castor oil. It is solely comprised of occlusive moisturizing and emollient saturated fatty acids and is best suited for dry skin. It can also act as a thickener and emulsifier.
Glyceryl Isostearate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Glyceryl Isostearate
Polyhydroxystearic Acid
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Polyhydroxystearic AcidA soft and malleable amber wax naturally derived from vegetable sources. It allows minerals to be very finely dispersed, which can improve SPF, decrease the white cast in sunscreens, and increase the color expression in pigmented products.
Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) Oil
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) OilAn essential oil derived from common, or true, lavender. It is used in skincare for its lovely, calming scent. Like all essential oils, however, it may cause a contact skin allergy in more sensitive individuals.
Cananga Odorata Flower Oil
Est. %0.2
Function
Origin
Cananga Odorata Flower Oil

A fragrant essential oil obtained from the flowers of the tropical ylang-ylang tree. It is a popular ingredient in skincare, as well as in aromatherapy, perfumes, and the food industry for its sweet, floral, slightly fruity, jasmine-like scent.

Limonene
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Limonene

One of the most used fragrances in skincare products. It is produced from the peels of citrus fruits and has a fresh, pleasant, citrusy smell. People who are sensitive to citrus should try to avoid it, or at least do a patch test before using it.

Linalool
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
LinaloolA fragrant, volatile compound naturally present in many essential oils. It has a pleasant scent and is often used in skincare products as a fragrance. People with sensitive skin should try to avoid it, or at least do a patch test before using it.
Benzyl Benzoate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Benzyl BenzoateA fragrance ingredient with a fruity and woody scent. It is considered an allergen according to the International Fragrance Association (IFRA), which means that care must be taken when determining usage levels in skincare products.
Geraniol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Geraniol

A fragrant, volatile, plant-based, liquid chemical that can be naturally found in many essential oils (specifically rose, palmarosa, citronella). It has a rose-like scent. It is a potential irritant and may cause an allergic reaction in some people.

Benzyl Salicylate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Benzyl Salicylate

A fragrance ingredient with a sweet, floral, and slightly balsamic scent. It is one of the twenty-six fragrances that are considered allergens according to the International Fragrance Association (IFRA), and so its use is restricted.

Citral
Est. %0.15
Function
Origin
Citral

A fragrant compound found in many essential oils (especially lemon myrtle and lemongrass essential oil). It has a sweet, lemon-like scent. People with sensitive skin should try to avoid products with citral, or at least do a patch test before using.

Citronellol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Citronellol

A fragrant compound found naturally in many essential oils (mainly lemongrass). It can have a lemon or a rose scent. People with sensitive skin should try to avoid products with citronellol, or at least do a patch test before using it.