Cien Milk & Honey Lip Balm SPF 30

Cien Milk & Honey Lip Balm SPF 30
5.8
/ 10
Moisturizing
1.5 Humectancy icon Humectancy
10.0 Occlusivity icon Occlusivity
Rich
in Antioxidants
30
SPF icon
SPF

Review

Does Cien Milk & Honey Lip Balm SPF 30 work?

Based on the ingredient list analysis by CreamScan AI, these are the key benefits you can expect from using Cien Milk & Honey Lip Balm SPF 30:

  • Strong occlusive moisturizing. This exceptionally occlusive moisturizer, ideal for dry and very dry skin, has a moderate moisturizing rating of 5.8 out of 10, impaired by the lack of humectants.
  • Antioxidant protection.
  • Moderate to high sun protection for daily outdoor activities

Moisturizer with the right occlusivity for dry to very dry skin, ideally to be used with extra humectants

According to CreamScan analysis, Cien Milk & Honey Lip Balm SPF 30 is quite moisturizing, with a moisturizing rating of 5.8 out of 10.

Is it more humectant or occlusive? Significantly more occlusive. It has a low Humectancy of 1.5 out of 10 and a maximum Occlusivity of 10 out of 10, primarily due to the high content of Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride (est. ≈40.0%), Ricinus Communis (Castor) Seed Oil (est. ≈22.0%) and C18-36 Acid Triglyceride (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 Cien Milk & Honey Lip Balm SPF 30 suggests a rich, thick texture, making it perfectly suited for dry skin.

However, it contains a low level of humectants, and people with dry skin would definitely benefit from adding more humectants to their moisturizing routine beyond what this product offers. If this is your only moisturizer, it may be worth including a humectant-rich product, such as a serum, in your skincare routine.

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

Rich in skin-protecting antioxidants

We estimate that Cien Milk & Honey Lip Balm SPF 30 is rich (> 3%) in antioxidants, specifically Olea Europaea (Olive) Fruit Oil (est. ≈6.0%).

A key benefit of antioxidants is their ability to reduce oxidative stress caused by free radicals and therefore prevent accelerated skin aging. Studies also show that antioxidants can protect against environmental damage such as UV radiation and pollution, and help reduce inflammation and skin redness.

Moderate to high sun protection for daily outdoor activities

With an SPF of 30, Cien Milk & Honey Lip Balm SPF 30 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.

Ingredients

Est. % Ingredient Origin Functions
40
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
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Est. %
Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride
Function:
Origin:
Ricinus Communis (Castor) Seed Oil
Function:
Origin:
C18-36 Acid Triglyceride
Function:
Origin:
Olea Europaea (Olive) Fruit Oil
Function:
Origin:
Cetearyl Ethylhexanoate
Function:
Origin:
Glyceryl Ricinoleate
Function:
Origin:
Zinc Oxide
Function:
Origin:
Stearyl Beeswax
Function:
Origin:
Behenyl Beeswax
Function:
Origin:
Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter
Function:
Origin:
Euphorbia Cerifera (Candelilla) Wax
Function:
Origin:
Polyglyceryl-3 Diisostearate
Function:
Origin:
Diethylamino Hydroxybenzoyl Hexyl Benzoate
Function:
Origin:
Tocopheryl Acetate
Function:
Origin:
Orbignya Oleifera Seed Oil
Function:
Origin:
Ethylhexyl Triazone
Function:
Origin:
Water
Function:
Origin:
Persea Gratissima (Avocado) Oil
Function:
Origin:
Glycerin
Function:
Origin:
Panthenol
Function:
Origin:
Sorbitol
Function:
Origin:
Butter
Function:
Origin:
Milk Protein
Function:
Origin:
Honey Extract
Function:
Origin:
Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Leaf Extract
Function:
Origin:
Milk
Function:
Origin:
Propylene Glycol
Function:
Origin:
Fragrance
Function:
Origin:
Hydrogenated Palm Glycerides Citrate
Function:
Origin:
Tocopherol
Function:
Origin:
Citric Acid
Function:
Origin:
Bisabolol
Function:
Origin:
Farnesol
Function:
Origin:
Iron Oxides (CI 77492)
Function:
Origin:

Ratings

All humectants
1.5
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
10
All occlusives
83.3
40.0
22.0
11.0
6.0
1.5
1.0
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
20
Moisturizing rating
5.8
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Raiting
Humectancy All humectants 1.5 10
1.5
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Occlusivity All occlusives 83.3 20
10.0
40.0
22.0
11.0
6.0
1.5
1.0
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Moisturizing rating
5.8
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Humectancy
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
All humectants 1.5 10
1.5
All humectants
1.5
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
10
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Occlusivity
40
22
11
6
1.5
1
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
All occlusives 83.3 20
10.0
All occlusives
83.3
40.0
22.0
11.0
6.0
1.5
1.0
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
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
6
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
All antioxidants 7.2 3 Rich in antioxidants
All antioxidants
7.2
Olea Europaea (Olive) Fruit Oil
6
Tocopheryl Acetate
0.3
Persea Gratissima (Avocado) Oil
0.3
Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Leaf Extract
0.3
Tocopherol
0.3
Benchmark
3
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark
Rich in Soothing
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
All soothing 1.2 5 No
All soothing
1.2
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
5

Ingredients explained

Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride
Est. %40
Function
Origin
Caprylic/Capric TriglycerideA natural occlusive moisturizing and emollient ingredient, it is a blend of glycerin and two fatty acids, caprylic and capric acid. It creates an oil-based protective layer on the skin, thereby preventing water loss.
Ricinus Communis (Castor) Seed Oil
Est. %22
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.
C18-36 Acid Triglyceride
Est. %11
Function
Origin
C18-36 Acid Triglyceride
Olea Europaea (Olive) Fruit Oil
Est. %6
Function
Origin
Olea Europaea (Olive) Fruit Oil

A famous olive oil widely used in skincare as an emollient and occlusive moisturizer. It contains mainly unsaturated fatty acids, antioxidant flavonoids, and oleuropeins. Olive oil is listed as a common comedogenic ingredient by acne.org.

Cetearyl Ethylhexanoate
Est. %4
Function
Origin
Cetearyl EthylhexanoateAn emollient ester that is derived from palm and palm kernel oil and is known for its velvety soft skin feel and excellent spreading properties.
Glyceryl Ricinoleate
Est. %3
Function
Origin
Glyceryl Ricinoleate
Zinc Oxide
Est. %2
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.
Stearyl Beeswax
Est. %1.5
Function
Origin
Stearyl Beeswax
Behenyl Beeswax
Est. %1
Function
Origin
Behenyl Beeswax
Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) ButterA semi-solid, buttery fat extracted from the seeds of the Shea tree that is a wonderful occlusive and emollient ingredient mainly comprised of fatty acids. Shea butter contains a large amount of anti-inflammatory and antioxidant compounds.
Euphorbia Cerifera (Candelilla) Wax
Est. %0.3
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.
Polyglyceryl-3 Diisostearate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Polyglyceryl-3 DiisostearateA vegetable-based ingredient that stabilizes mixtures of oil and water.
Diethylamino Hydroxybenzoyl Hexyl Benzoate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Diethylamino Hydroxybenzoyl Hexyl Benzoate
Tocopheryl Acetate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Tocopheryl Acetate

An antioxidant derivative of tocopherol (vitamin E). It helps to protect cells from free radicals and UV damage through the conversion to active vitamin E in the skin. It is more stable than tocopherol.

Orbignya Oleifera Seed Oil
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Orbignya Oleifera Seed OilA fatty oil, with emollient and occlusive properties, expressed from the seeds of the Babassu palm. It is similar to coconut oil in a way.
Ethylhexyl Triazone
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Ethylhexyl Triazone
Water
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
WaterThe most used ingredient in skincare. Its concentration defines the product texture: rich creams may have about 50% of water while a light jelly about 90%. Water doesn’t moisturize the skin by itself and is used in skincare as a solvent for other ingredients.
Persea Gratissima (Avocado) Oil
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Persea Gratissima (Avocado) OilA fatty oil expressed from the fleshy part of an avocado, used in skincare for its excellent emollient and occlusive moisturizing properties. Avocado oil contains fatty acids, notably oleic acid (up to 80%), squalene, vitamin E, and carotenoids.
Glycerin
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Glycerin

The most popular moisturizing ingredient in the world. It is a powerful humectant – cheap yet very effective.

Panthenol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
PanthenolA popular soothing and moisturizing derivative of vitamin B5. Panthenol is particularly beneficial for dry, flaking, burned, or damaged skin. It is used to alleviate the symptoms of a rash, dermatitis, eczema, chapped lips, and sunburn.
Sorbitol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
SorbitolA sweet-tasting alcohol derived from glucose. Aside from its sweet taste (for which it is used as a very common sweetener), Sorbitol is also very good at retaining water and is used in skincare as a humectant.
Butter
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Butter
Milk Protein
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Milk Protein
Honey Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Honey ExtractAn extract obtained from honey that is comprised of proteins, minerals, and various bioactive compounds with antimicrobial, emollient, moisturizing humectant, and soothing properties.
Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Leaf Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Leaf ExtractA soothing and astringent extract derived from the fragrant, spicy leaves of rosemary. It has strong antioxidant properties. Rosemary extract can reduce signs of inflammation and also acts as an emollient and antimicrobial agent.
Milk
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Milk
Propylene Glycol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Propylene GlycolA clear, thick, odorless liquid of synthetic origin. Its main function is to stabilize cosmetic products exposed to varying temperatures. It is also a moderately strong humectant with similar properties to glycerin.
Fragrance
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
FragranceUnder trade secret law, manufacturers have the right not to disclose what exactly went into the fragrance and use the unspecific word Fragrance or Parfum instead. Many fragrances are highly allergenic.
Hydrogenated Palm Glycerides Citrate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Hydrogenated Palm Glycerides Citrate
Tocopherol
Est. %0.3
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.

Citric Acid
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Citric AcidA gently exfoliating AHA that helps to remove the top layer of dead skin cells. In comparison to other AHAs, citric acid has been shown to be one of the least effective. It is also very commonly used as a stabilizing and pH-controlling agent.
Bisabolol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Bisabolol

An anti-inflammatory compound found naturally in German chamomile essential oil. It has a pleasant, sweet, and floral scent. Bisabolol also has soothing and anti-inflammatory properties but can cause an allergic reaction in more sensitive individuals.

Farnesol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Farnesol

A fragrant, liquid alcohol that is naturally found in many essential oils. It has a soft, sweet, floral scent. People with sensitive skin should try to avoid it, or at least do a patch test before using it.

Iron Oxides (CI 77492)
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Iron Oxides (CI 77492)Also known as iron (III) oxide, this ingredient is a yellow-colored pigment that can either be derived from minerals or produced synthetically. It adds yellow tones to cosmetic products.