Austin Asphalt: No Shade Melting Lip Balms?

By Franklin Everett Shaw

December 30, 2025

It’s not just hot here in Austin; it’s a different kind of hot. It’s the kind of heat that melts your dreams, your ice cream, and, yes, even your lip balm.

So, what’s a Texan to do when the sun is trying to turn everything into a puddle? We fight back, armed with knowledge and the right tools. This is your guide to keeping your lips protected and un-melted in the face of Austin’s relentless summer.

Let’s talk lip balm. It’s a staple, right? But not all lip balms are created equal, especially when faced with “Austin Asphalt” temperatures. We’re talking about the kind of heat radiating off the pavement that could fry an egg.

First, the bad news: your favorite drugstore lip balm might be a melty mess waiting to happen. Many popular brands, especially those with a high oil content or softer waxes, simply can’t stand up to the Texas heat. Think Burt’s Bees, ChapStick (the original), and even some of the fancier tinted balms. They become slick, greasy, and offer minimal protection.

I know, I know, Burt’s Bees is practically a religion for some. But trust me, leaving it in your car on a 100-degree day is a recipe for disaster. You’ll end up with a tube of oily goo that’s more likely to attract dust and dirt than protect your lips.

We put several popular brands to the “Austin Asphalt” test. We left them in a car parked in direct sunlight on a typical July afternoon. The results? Predictable, but still disappointing. Burt’s Bees was a complete liquid. ChapStick held its shape somewhat, but was incredibly soft and offered no real SPF protection after melting. A tinted balm from a well-known beauty brand separated into its oil and pigment components.

So, what does work? The key is to look for lip balms with a high melting point and, crucially, a high SPF. Mineral-based sunscreens (zinc oxide or titanium dioxide) are your best bet, as they’re more stable at high temperatures than chemical sunscreens.

Here are a few recommendations that have proven their mettle in the Austin heat:

Badger Balm SPF 30 Lip Balm: This stuff is a workhorse. It’s made with zinc oxide, so it provides broad-spectrum sun protection without melting into a greasy mess. It has a slightly thicker consistency, which helps it stay put even when things get sweaty.
EltaMD UV Lip Balm SPF 31: EltaMD is known for its high-quality sunscreens, and their lip balm is no exception. It’s a bit pricier, but it’s worth the investment if you’re serious about sun protection. It contains zinc oxide and is formulated to be water-resistant, making it ideal for outdoor activities.
ThinkSport SPF 30 Lip Balm: Another great mineral-based option. ThinkSport is known for its reef-safe sunscreens, so you can feel good about using this lip balm. It’s also fragrance-free, which is a bonus for those with sensitive skin.

Now, let’s get crafty. If you’re feeling ambitious, you can even make your own melt-proof lip balm. It’s easier than you think, and you can customize it to your liking.

Here’s a basic recipe for a DIY lip balm that can withstand the Texas heat:

Ingredients:

1 tablespoon beeswax
1 tablespoon shea butter
1 tablespoon coconut oil
1 teaspoon zinc oxide powder (non-nano)
A few drops of essential oil (optional, for scent)

Instructions:

Melt the beeswax, shea butter, and coconut oil together in a double boiler or a heat-safe bowl set over a pot of simmering water.
Once melted, remove from heat and let cool slightly.
Stir in the zinc oxide powder until it’s fully incorporated. Be careful not to inhale the powder.
Add essential oils, if desired.
Pour the mixture into lip balm tubes or small containers and let cool completely.

The beeswax is the key to keeping this lip balm solid in the heat. Shea butter adds moisture, and coconut oil provides a smooth texture. The zinc oxide provides sun protection.

Challenges and Pitfalls:

Zinc Oxide Clumping: Zinc oxide can be tricky to work with, as it tends to clump. To avoid this, use a small whisk or a milk frother to ensure it’s evenly distributed.
Melting Point Adjustments: Depending on the specific ingredients you use, you may need to adjust the ratio of beeswax to other oils to achieve the desired consistency. Experiment to find what works best for you.
SPF Calculation: It’s difficult to accurately calculate the SPF of a homemade sunscreen. Err on the side of caution and use a generous amount of zinc oxide.

Beyond lip balm, remember that prevention is key. Avoid prolonged sun exposure, especially during peak hours (10 am to 4 pm). Wear a wide-brimmed hat to shield your face and neck. Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water.

And don’t forget about the rest of your skin! Austin’s sun is unforgiving, so make sure you’re wearing sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher every day, even on cloudy days. Reapply every two hours, or more often if you’re swimming or sweating.

Living in Austin means embracing the heat, but it doesn’t mean sacrificing your skin. With the right knowledge and the right products, you can keep your lips protected and your skin healthy, even when the temperature is soaring. So go forth, enjoy the sunshine, and don’t let your lip balm melt!