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Review

Lip Photoprotection Patents (2014–2024): Key Trends and Emerging Technologies

by
Vanessa Urrea-Victoria
1,2,
Ana Sofia Guerrero Casas
1,
Leonardo Castellanos
2,
Mairim Russo Serafini
3,4 and
Diana Marcela Aragón Novoa
1,*
1
Departamento de Farmacia, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad Nacional de Colombia, Sede Bogotá. Av. Carrera 30 # 45-03, Bogotá 111321, Colombia
2
Departamento de Química, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad Nacional de Colombia, Sede Bogotá. Av. Carrera 30 # 45-03, Bogotá 111321, Colombia
3
Departamento de Farmácia, Universidade Federal de Sergipe, Aracaju 49107-230, Brazil
4
Programa de Pósgraduação em Ciências da Saúde, Universidade Federal de Sergipe, Aracaju 49107-230, Brazil
*
Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Cosmetics 2025, 12(4), 161; https://doi.org/10.3390/cosmetics12040161
Submission received: 17 June 2025 / Revised: 22 July 2025 / Accepted: 25 July 2025 / Published: 29 July 2025
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sunscreen Advances and Photoprotection Strategies in Cosmetics)
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Abstract

The lips, due to their unique anatomical characteristics of a thin stratum corneum, the absence of sebaceous glands, and limited melanin content are particularly vulnerable to ultraviolet (UV) radiation, necessitating specialized photoprotective care. While facial sunscreens are widely available, the development of lip-specific sun protection products remains underexplored. This study aims to analyze technological trends and innovations in lip photoprotection by reviewing patents published between 2014 and 2024. A comprehensive patent search using the IPC code A61Q19 and the keywords “lip” and “sunscreen” identified 17 relevant patents across China, the United States, and Japan. The patents were examined for active ingredients, formulation strategies, and use of botanical or sustainable excipients. The findings revealed that patented formulations predominantly rely on well-established UV filters such as zinc oxide, titanium dioxide, octyl methoxycinnamate, and avobenzone, often combined with antioxidants like ferulic acid and rutin for enhanced efficacy. Lipid-based excipients were widely used to improve texture, hydration, and product stability. Although many formulations exhibit a conservative ingredient profile, the strategic combination of UV filters with natural antioxidants and moisturizing lipids demonstrates a multifunctional approach aimed at enhancing both protection and user experience.
Keywords:
lip; cosmetic; patent; sunscreen

1. Introduction

Skin care has become one of the key pillars of cosmetics, addressing not only esthetic needs but also dermal health. Sun protection is essential for preserving skin health, as ultraviolet (UV) radiation is a major risk factor for premature aging and various skin conditions, including skin cancer [1]. The lips, due to their unique anatomy (thinner skin, the absence of sebaceous glands, and a limited melanin content; Figure 1), are particularly vulnerable to UV radiation damage [2,3]. Therefore, the protection of this delicate area is crucial in cosmetic formulations.
Although studies on lip cancer remain relatively scarce, growing evidence supports the role of photoprotective lip products in reducing its risk, particularly in populations with high UV exposure. Pogoda and Preston-Martin [4] conducted a population-based case–control study involving 74 women with lip cancer and 105 controls in Los Angeles County (USA). They found a significantly increased risk of lip cancer with higher cumulative sun exposure, and importantly, demonstrated that among women with high lifetime UV exposure, those using lip protection more than once daily had a reduced risk compared to less frequent users. Similarly, a study by Busick et al. [5] evaluated beachgoers’ behaviors and found that those who used sunscreen on their skin were significantly more likely to use lip protection as well (p = 0.0002), though general awareness of UV as a risk factor for lip cancer was much lower than for skin cancer (p < 0.0001). The authors emphasized the need for targeted public health interventions to promote lip photoprotection, especially in high-risk groups such as outdoor workers and tobacco users. Collectively, these findings underscore that while lip cancer is relatively rare, especially in women, regular use of photoprotective lip products is associated with a measurable reduction in risk, supporting broader preventive strategies.
Lip photoprotection presents notable challenges due to the increased susceptibility of lips to photoaging, dehydration, environmental damage, and malignancies such as squamous cell carcinoma [4]. Conventional sunscreen formulations often fail to meet the unique anatomical and physiological requirements of the lip area, thereby limiting their protective efficacy and safety [1]. Thorough understanding of the distinct characteristics of the labial skin is essential for the development of effective formulations that integrate both photoprotective and moisturizing properties.
Over the past decade, lip care products with sun protection have gained prominence, offering a barrier against UV radiation while providing hydrating and regenerating benefits for this sensitive area. Key product categories such as lip balms, lip glosses, lipsticks, and lip sunscreens are now commonly formulated to meet both protective and esthetic needs [6]. Lip balms typically provide hydration and protect against environmental damage with added moisturizers; lip glosses add shine and volume while moisturizing; lipsticks deliver color and texture, with some including sun protection factor (SPF); and lip sunscreens offer broad-spectrum UV protection specifically designed for the lips. Additionally, specialized treatments like lip tattooing (micropigmentation) have emerged as semi-permanent cosmetic options considering the lip skin’s delicate nature [6]. Other complementary products include lip salves for intense hydration, lip plumpers to enhance fullness, and lip liners to define contours and prevent color bleeding [7].
Gabarda and Ademolab [8] demonstrated that the minimal erythema dose (MED) on the lips is approximately 25% higher than on back skin, possibly due to adaptive thickening of the lip tissue from daily UV exposure. However, lip sunscreen SPF values measured directly on lips tend to be lower than those measured on back skin, suggesting that conventional SPF measurements may overestimate actual protection on the lips [9]. These findings emphasize the need for specialized photoprotection formulations for this vulnerable area [8].
Recent studies in the literature highlight a growing interest in the development of sun protection products designed specifically for the lips, with formulations increasingly incorporating moisturizing agents, antioxidants, and natural ingredients [10,11,12,13,14]. These innovations reflect significant advancements in the past two decades in lip photoprotection technology. The cosmetic industry, through continuous technological advancements, has been innovating formulations that not only prevent sun damage but also enhance lip skin health and esthetics. As consumer awareness of sun exposure risks rises, the demand for novel, effective products has increased. Consequently, there is a growing emphasis on developing specialized lip care products that provide broad-spectrum sun protection, hydration, and antioxidant support. Table 1 presents some commercial lip photoprotection products currently available on the market. These products vary in SPF ratings and active ingredients, which include both organic and inorganic UV filters, as well as functional excipients such as emollients, waxes, and botanical extracts aimed at improving sensory properties and therapeutic performance.
Patents, as documented records of new inventions, are valuable sources to understand technological innovations in this field, identifying emerging trends and solutions aimed at improving the effectiveness and safety of lip sun protection products. Despite these advances, no comprehensive reviews analyze the specific patent trends related to lip care and photoprotection. Understanding these technological trends is crucial for driving the development of more effective and innovative solutions. This gap in literature limits a full understanding of the current landscape and future opportunities, making it a key focus for researchers and evaluators.
This article aims to review patents related to cosmetic products for lip care with sun protection published between January 2014 and December 2024. Through a comprehensive analysis of identified patents, this study highlights key technological trends, identifies areas of innovation, and provides an integrated view of scientific and technological advances that contribute to improving lip skin protection and health against UV damage.

2. Methodology

In this patent review, we focused on the search terms “lip” and “sunscreen” in the title or abstract, within the International Patent Classification (IPC) code A61Q19, which pertains to “Preparations for the care of skin”. The search covered patents published between January 2014 and December 2024 (Figure 2). Initially, 29 patents were identified for preliminary assessment. However, 11 patents were excluded as their content did not align with the focus of the review, and 1 patent was excluded due to unavailability. As a result, 17 patents were selected for detailed analysis based on the objectives of the study (Figure 2), outlining the criteria applied for patent search and screening in this review. Information summarized about the selected patents is presented in Table 2. Additionally, a brief search was conducted on the Scopus database using identical criteria to compare the number of papers with the patents found on this topic.

3. Results and Discussion

3.1. Patents and Publications About Lips and Sunscreen

This continental distribution reveals that while patent filings are predominantly concentrated in Asia, particularly China, scientific research is more broadly distributed across the Americas and Europe, reflecting differing emphases on research publication and intellectual property protection across regions (Figure 3).
The patent analysis revealed that most patents were filed in China (13 patents), followed by the United States of America (3 patents) and Japan (1 patent), showing a strong concentration of patent activity in Asia and North America. When analyzing the number of scientific articles indexed in Scopus using the same keywords and within the same time frame, the distribution of articles by continent presents a different pattern. The Americas lead in scientific output, with the United States contributing 14 publications, Brazil 12, and Canada 3, and with individual contributions from Peru and Chile. Europe also shows a substantial contribution, with Spain leading with eight publications, followed by Portugal, the United Kingdom, Germany, France, Switzerland, Norway, the Netherlands, Italy, Greece, Denmark, and Austria, each with one to three publications. Asian countries such as China, India, Turkey, Thailand, South Korea, Taiwan, Saudi Arabia, Pakistan, Iran, Indonesia, and Nepal also contribute to the literature, with China publishing eight articles. Africa and Oceania present fewer publications, with Ethiopia and Australia each having one publication.
These regions’ prominence in research and innovation on photoprotection reflects not only their industrial development but also the phototype distribution of their populations and associated risks. The United States and many European countries have large populations with Fitzpatrick skin phototypes I–III, which are more susceptible to photoaging and UV-induced skin cancers [14,20,21]. Consequently, awareness campaigns and scientific interest in effective sun protection, including sensitive areas such as the lips, have been more intense. In Asia, although many populations fall within phototypes III–V, research suggests that increased melanin does not eliminate the risk of photoaging, pigmentary disorders, or UV damage, particularly in mucosal areas such as the lips, which are more vulnerable due to their thinner epithelial barrier and reduced melanin content [20,22]. Moreover, in countries like China and South Korea, cultural emphasis on even-toned, unblemished skin has driven both academic and industrial interest in photoprotective formulations (Figure 4). Thus, the concentration of patents and studies in the USA, Europe, and Asia correlates not only with scientific capacity but also with real dermatological needs based on population phototypes and cosmetic expectations. This underscores the growing global demand for lip-specific sun protection strategies across a range of skin tones.
These trends suggest that lip photoprotection innovation, reflected in the patent landscape, is concentrated in regions with advanced industrial capacity and strong cosmetic markets, particularly East Asia and North America. However, the broader geographic distribution of scientific publications points to a growing global interest in emerging sun protection technologies targeting the lips. This underscores the need for inclusive, phototype-adapted approaches that bridge basic research and technological development to meet both dermatological needs and cosmetic expectations.
Table 2. Patents published in the European Patent Office from 2014 to 2023 related to lips and sunscreen.
Table 2. Patents published in the European Patent Office from 2014 to 2023 related to lips and sunscreen.
Application NumberYearCountryTitleActive IngredientNatural Extracts and Botanical DerivativesHumectants or EmollientsVitamins and AntioxidantsPigments and ColorantsFunctional Additives (Preservatives, Fragrance, Stabilizers)Reference
CN104688598 (A)2015ChinaSunscreen multi-effect lip protection balmnano titanium dioxide, nano zinc oxide, niacinamide glycerin [23]
CN104906013 (A)2015ChinaNatural plant mineral element cold prevention lipsticktitanium dioxide odecanoic acid, myristic acid, palmitic acid, and octadecanoic acid [24]
CN105106054 (A)2015ChinaSunscreen multi-effect lip balmtitanium dioxide, zinc oxideAnthemis tinctoria extract, Portulacae extract [25]
CN105581944 (A)2016ChinaSunscreening and moisturizing lipstickdiethylhexyl butamido triazon, terephthalidene dicamphor sulfonic acid, two-ethylhexyl phenol methylamino benzene piperazine, octocrilene, ferulic acid, zinc oxideAloe extract, Gynostemma pentaphyllum extract [26]
CN105963181 (A)2016ChinaLip balm with sunscreen moistening functionniacinamide, zinc oxide, titanium dioxiderose, jasmine, cucumber, peach, pineapple, or lemon extract Vitamin A, Vitamin B2, Vitamin C, Vitamin E [27]
CN106420549 (A)2017ChinaLily-containing sunscreen moisturizing lip balmtitanium dioxide, zinc oxideLilium extract AntioxidantsPigments (Optional) [28]
CN107095809 (A)2017ChinaSunscreen lip balmhemp seed oilGarcinia mangostana extract Preservatives (phenoxyethanol, parabens)[29]
CN109077951 (A)2018ChinaAntioxidative sunscreen lip gloss and preparation method thereofoctyl methoxycinnamate, benzophenone-3, benzophenone-4Anthocyaninhyaluronic acidVitamin C, Tocopheryl acetate (VE ester)Colorants (CI15850, CI15985, CI19140)Potassium cocoyl glutamate, triisocetyl citrate, cyclopolydimethylsiloxane, ethylene carbonate, lithium distearate montmorillonite, polyisobutylene[30]
CN109172412 (A)2019ChinaNatural plant lip balmtitanium dioxidePropolisoctyl palmitate, triglyceride, triisostearyl glycerol, isodecyl isodecanoate, glycerol triisooctanoate, lanolin, butyl stearate Pigments, Pine Needle Proanthocyanidin, Silicon-Treated Mica Powder, Pearl Powder, Titanium Dioxide, Opal Nanopowder, Zeolite Nanopowder, Carotene, LycopeneFragrance, preservative, strawberry flavor, bromate acid, hydrophobic silica, negative ion powder, organic germanium Ge-132, metallothionein, cholesterol absorption group[31]
CN109381400 (A)2019ChinaSunscreen nourishing lip balmoctyl methoxycinnamate, methoxydibenzoylmethane, titanium dioxideAloe extract Vitamin E Potassium sorbate[32]
CN109381405 (A)2019ChinaPreparation method for sunscreen nourishing lip balmsoctyl methoxycinnamate, methoxydibenzoylmethane, titanium dioxideAloe extract Vitamin E Potassium sorbate[33]
CN111714387 (A)2020ChinaSunscreen composition applicable to lips, preparation method for sunscreen composition, application of sunscreen composition and cosmeticrutin, titanium dioxide, zinc oxide, Scutellariae extract, diethyl amino hydroxy benzoyl benzoic acid hexyl ester, bis-ethyl hexyloxy phenol methoxyphenyl triazine, polysiloxane-15 [34]
CN113384490 (A); CN113384490 (B)2021ChinaLip sunscreen composition containing plant sunscreen agent as well as preparation method and application of lip sunscreen compositionpolyquaternium-51, wampee seed oil polyquaternium-51, caprylic/capric triglycerides, caprylic/capric glycerides, ethylhexyl palmitate [35]
JP2015166356 (A); JP5959685 (B2)2015JapanSunscreen compositionsavobenzone, titanium dioxideAloe vera, chamomile, green tea, cucumber, avocado, calendula, rosehipglycerin, urea, panthenol, allantoin, hyaluronic acid, ceramides, lecithinVitamin E, Ascorbic Acid, Panthenol, Niacinamide, RetinolIron Oxides, Titanium Dioxide, Mica, Annatto, BeetrootFragrance, preservatives, silica, kaolin, clays[36]
PH120125005532016United States of AmericaSunscreen composition[not available] [37]
US10493018 (B1)2019United States of AmericaTopical moisturizing compositionhemp seed oilAloe vera, chamomile, green tea, cucumber, avocado, calendula, rosehipglycerin, urea, panthenol, allantoin, hyaluronic acid, ceramides, lecithinVitamin E, Ascorbic Acid, Panthenol, Niacinamide, RetinolIron Oxides, Titanium Dioxide, Mica, Annatto, Beetroot [38]
WO2024077063 (A1)2024United States of AmericaLip balm containing sunscreenzinc oxidePlant extracts Pigments [39]

3.2. Active Ingredients and Mechanisms of Action in Patented Lip Photoprotection Products

As shown in Table 3, the active ingredients reported in the reviewed patents are primarily composed of well-established UV filters and multifunctional agents that offer various types of photoprotection through distinct mechanisms. Metal oxides such as zinc oxide and titanium dioxide act predominantly by reflecting and scattering ultraviolet (UV) radiation, delivering broad-spectrum protection across both UVA and UVB ranges. These compounds, especially in their nanoparticle forms, also exhibit some absorption of UV radiation, contributing to more extensive photoprotection [40].
Among organic filters, octyl methoxycinnamate (OMC) is frequently used for its strong UVB absorption capacity, while avobenzone (butyl methoxydibenzoylmethane) selectively absorbs UVA rays. Several patented formulations also incorporate more advanced aromatic esters such as bis-ethylhexyloxyphenol methoxyphenyl triazine and diethyl amino hydroxy benzoyl benzoic acid hexyl ester, which are recognized for their superior photostability and broad-spectrum coverage [41]. Additionally, compounds like terephthalidene dicamphor sulfonic acid and diethylhexyl butamido triazon extend protection through high water solubility and stability under UV exposure—desirable traits for lip applications exposed to frequent licking and food intake [40].
Botanical and phenolic compounds are also featured for their indirect photoprotective benefits. Flavonoids such as rutin and plant extracts like Scutellaria [42] and hemp seed oil function as antioxidants, neutralizing reactive oxygen species (ROS) and reducing oxidative stress induced by UV exposure. Ferulic acid, a potent antioxidant, further stabilizes UV filters and enhances their efficacy [43]. Additionally, polymers like polyquaternium-51 form a protective film that can act as a moisture barrier, while polysiloxane-15 absorbs UVB radiation and contributes to the overall photoprotective matrix of the formulation [44].
Despite the technical sophistication of some combinations, the overall ingredient landscape remains conservative, focusing on established UV filters with known safety profiles. This approach ensures regulatory compliance but may limit innovation in the field. Nevertheless, the strategic pairing of UV filters with antioxidants and film-forming polymers represents a synergistic approach that enhances both efficacy and sensory experience in lip photoprotection products [44].

3.3. Functional Roles of Lipid-Based Ingredients in the Patents of Sunscreen Products for Lips

As is present in Figure 5, lipid-based ingredients such as waxes, oils, and butters are foundational components in cosmetic and pharmaceutical formulations, particularly for lip care products, where they can comprise up to 80% of the final composition [45]. Their selection and combination are critical not only for delivering sensory appeal and product stability but also for ensuring effective protection and care for the delicate lip area. Waxes typically make up 10–25% of the formulation and provide essential structure, firmness, and thermal stability. These properties are crucial for maintaining the stick form of lip balms and lipsticks and for ensuring resistance to environmental conditions such as heat and humidity [46,47]. Moreover, waxes enhance water resistance, a key feature in photoprotective products designed to withstand sweating, eating, or exposure to aquatic environment.
Oils, often comprising 40–60% of the lipid phase, serve as solubilizers for UV filters and antioxidants and as carriers for active ingredients. They also significantly influence product spread ability, absorption, and tactile sensation. For instance, lighter oils like castor or caprylic/capric triglycerides are used to achieve smooth glide and a non-greasy finish, while heavier oils contribute to occlusive and longer-lasting effects [39,48]. Their polarity and viscosity also affect the dispersion and bioavailability of UV filters, indirectly modulating the photoprotective performance of the formulation.
Butters, such as shea, cocoa, and mango butters, are rich in unsaponifiable matter and phytochemicals that provide additional emollient, antioxidant, and soothing effects. They typically account for 5–15% of formulations and contribute to a creamy, luxurious texture while supporting barrier repair and moisture retention. Their inclusion is particularly relevant in lip photoprotection as lips are more prone to dehydration and lack sebaceous glands [48,49,50]. However, the polymorphic behavior of butters—especially in products exposed to temperature variations—must be carefully managed during processing to avoid graininess and recrystallization issues [46,50].
In photoprotective applications, the synergy between these lipids enhances not only product functionality but also consumer compliance. For instance, a formulation that combines structural waxes, lightweight emollient oils, and moisturizing butters is more likely to be pleasant, easy to reapply, and effective in delivering even UV coverage to the lip surface. Additionally, lipids help stabilize lipophilic UV filters and antioxidants, reducing their photodegradation and enhancing long-term product efficacy [45]. Therefore, lipid selection should be strategically guided by both physicochemical parameters and performance goals, especially in multifunctional lip products aimed at combining photoprotection, hydration, and esthetic appeal [51,52,53].
It is important to note that natural lipids have emerged as critical components in the development of innovative lip care products with photoprotective properties. As depicted in Figure 6, beeswax stands out as a primary structuring agent, used in 76% of the revised patents, due to its occlusive properties and film-forming capacity that enhances water resistance and product stability [54].
Plant-derived waxes such as candelilla and carnauba are also widely incorporated to increase hardness and provide a glossy esthetic, essential for sensory appeal and formulation integrity [55,56]. Alongside these waxes, a rich diversity of plant-based oils, such as almond, argan, castor, jojoba, coconut, olive, grape seed, hemp, linseed, macadamia nut, rapeseed, and sunflower oils, contribute multifunctional benefits including antioxidant protection, essential fatty acid replenishment, and support for the skin barrier [55,57]. These oils are praised for their capacity to enhance skin hydration, elasticity, and overall health, making them particularly valuable for lip applications where the skin is thinner and more vulnerable to UV damage. Moreover, natural butters like shea, cocoa, murumuru, cupuaçu, and kokum deliver intense emollient effects and contribute to the luxurious texture and adherence of lip products while repairing the lips and preventing dryness or irritation [48,58]. The inclusion of these lipids also facilitates the delivery of active photoprotective agents and can even boost their efficacy by improving the formulation’s bioadhesion and penetration [57]. Growing consumer preference for “clean beauty” and natural ingredients reinforces the importance of these materials in cosmetic innovation as they offer a safe, sustainable alternative to synthetic bases. In this context, lipids not only serve functional and sensorial roles but also embody a bridge between efficacy, natural origin, and consumer demand for eco-conscious formulations [59,60].

3.4. Challenges and Opportunities for Innovation in Lip Photoprotective Products

The development of effective lip photoprotective formulations presents several scientific, regulatory, and environmental challenges while offering opportunities for innovation. One of the primary challenges lies in the accurate assessment of SPF on the lips. Unlike the uniform and planar surface of the forearm, commonly used in SPF testing, the lips pose unique anatomical and physiological complexities—including curvature, mobility, low stratum corneum thickness, and frequent contact with saliva or food—that compromise the reliability and reproducibility of SPF values [8].
Another critical challenge is the lack of harmonization across international regulatory frameworks. In the United States, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulates sunscreens as over-the-counter (OTC) drugs, currently approving only 16 active UV filters under the Sunscreen Innovation Act. In contrast, the European Commission regulates sunscreen as cosmetics and allows over 25 filters, including more photostable and broad-spectrum agents [61,62,63]. These differences limit the global portability of formulations and hinder innovation.
Additionally, there is growing concern about the ecological safety of chemical UV filters. Ingredients such as oxybenzone and octinoxate have been implicated in coral reef damage and endocrine disruption, leading to bans in regions like Hawaii and Palau [64,65]. This environmental scrutiny has opened opportunities for natural, biodegradable alternatives that offer both efficacy and ecological responsibility.
The use of sustainable lipid-based excipients such as plant-derived oils (e.g., jojoba, coconut, and argan), waxes (e.g., carnauba and candelilla), and butters (e.g., shea, cocoa, and murumuru), is becoming increasingly popular in patented lip formulations. However, their compatibility with UV filters and their role in photoprotection still require further investigation [47,66,67].
Opportunities lie in the development of novel in vitro SPF assessment protocols adapted for curved, mucosal surfaces; encapsulation technologies that improve the photostability and availability of natural UV agents; and multi-functional lip products that offer photoprotection, pigmentation control, and anti-aging benefits. Furthermore, global trends toward skin diversity and regional climate adaptation suggest a future in which lip sunscreens will be tailored not only regarding SPF but also consumer lifestyle, phototype, and sustainability expectations [68,69,70].

4. Conclusions

Over the past decade, significant progress has been made in the formulation of lip care products with photoprotective properties, reflecting both increasing consumer awareness of UV damage and advances in cosmetic science. The unique anatomical features of the lips, including thin epithelium, limited melanin content, and exposure to environmental stress, necessitate specialized formulations. However, current methodologies for evaluating SPF in the lip area remain insufficiently adapted to its curved, mobile, and mucosal nature. This underscores the need for the development of in vitro and in vivo assessment protocols tailored specifically to lip anatomy. This review of patents filed between 2014 and 2024 highlights a consistent focus on the use of established UV filters, such as titanium dioxide, zinc oxide, avobenzone, and octyl methoxycinnamate, often complemented by botanical antioxidants and film-forming agents. Although many formulations exhibit a conservative ingredient profile, the strategic combination of UV filters with natural antioxidants and moisturizing lipids demonstrates a multifunctional approach aimed at enhancing both protection and user experience.

Author Contributions

Conceptualization, V.U.-V. and D.M.A.N.; methodology, V.U.-V. and D.M.A.N.; validation, V.U.-V., A.S.G.C. and D.M.A.N.; formal analysis, V.U.-V., A.S.G.C. and D.M.A.N.; data curation, V.U.-V., A.S.G.C. and D.M.A.N.; writing—original draft preparation, V.U.-V., A.S.G.C. and D.M.A.N.; writing—review and editing, V.U.-V., A.S.G.C. and D.M.A.N.; visualization, V.U.-V. and D.M.A.N.; supervision, V.U.-V., L.C., M.R.S. and D.M.A.N.; project administration, V.U.-V. and D.M.A.N.; funding acquisition, V.U.-V. and D.M.A.N. All authors have read and agreed to the published version of the manuscript.

Funding

This research was funded by Ministerio de Ciencia, Tecnología e Innovación de Colombia and Fondo Nacional de Financiamiento para la ciencia, la tecnología y la innovación Francisco José de Caldas, which funded the Orquideas program (grant number: 188-2024).

Acknowledgments

We thank the Universidad Nacional de Colombia for support. Special thanks to the Ministerio de Ciencia, Tecnología e Innovación de Colombia and Fondo Nacional de Financiamiento para la ciencia, la tecnología y la innovación Francisco José de Caldas, for funding the Orquideas program (Contract No. 188-2024).

Conflicts of Interest

The authors declare no conflicts of interest.

Abbreviations

The following abbreviations are used in this manuscript:
UVUltraviolet
UVAUltraviolet A (long-wave radiation, 320–400 nm)
UVBUltraviolet B (medium-wave radiation, 280–320 nm)
SPFSun Protection Factor
IPCInternational Patent Classification
ZnOZinc Oxide
TiO2Titanium Dioxide
OMCOctyl Methoxycinnamate
AVBAvobenzone (Butyl Methoxydibenzoylmethane)
BEMTBis-Ethylhexyloxyphenol Methoxyphenyl Triazine
DHHBDiethylamino Hydroxybenzoyl Hexyl Benzoate
TDSATerephthalidene Dicamphor Sulfonic Acid
DHTDiethylhexyl Butamido Triazone
ROSReactive Oxygen Species
FDAFood and Drug Administration (USA)
OTCOver the Counter
INCIInternational Nomenclature of Cosmetic Ingredients

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Cosmetics 12 00161 g001
Figure 1. Comparative anatomy of lip skin versus facial skin, highlighting key structural differences, including thickness, sebaceous glands, and barrier properties.
Figure 1. Comparative anatomy of lip skin versus facial skin, highlighting key structural differences, including thickness, sebaceous glands, and barrier properties.
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Figure 2. Flowchart of EPO patent search and screening process for lip and sunscreen-related technologies (2004–2024).
Figure 2. Flowchart of EPO patent search and screening process for lip and sunscreen-related technologies (2004–2024).
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Figure 3. Distribution of patent filings (green color) and articles by countries (purple dots).
Figure 3. Distribution of patent filings (green color) and articles by countries (purple dots).
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Figure 4. Number of articles (green) and patents (orange) related to lip and sunscreen filed per year from 2014 to 2024.
Figure 4. Number of articles (green) and patents (orange) related to lip and sunscreen filed per year from 2014 to 2024.
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Figure 5. Overview of wax, oil, and butter usage in patent formulations.
Figure 5. Overview of wax, oil, and butter usage in patent formulations.
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Figure 6. Lipid-based ingredients are employed in patents of sunscreen for lips.
Figure 6. Lipid-based ingredients are employed in patents of sunscreen for lips.
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Table 1. Commercial lip photoprotection products.
Table 1. Commercial lip photoprotection products.
ProductManufacturerSPFActive IngredientsReference
Lip Protector SPF 50+ISDIN50+Octinoxate, Octocrylene, Avobenzone[15]
Lip Protector SPF 30ISDIN30Octinoxate, Octocrylene, Avobenzone[16]
Lip Balm SPF 50+Eau Thermale Avène50+Tinosorb S, Avobenzone, Octocrylene[17]
Lip Protector Aloe Babaria30Aloe vera, Octinoxate, Avobenzone[18]
Lip CareNivea15Octinoxate, Avobenzone, Butyl Methoxydibenzoylmethane[19]
Table 3. Active ingredients reported in patents, mechanisms of action, and UV protection.
Table 3. Active ingredients reported in patents, mechanisms of action, and UV protection.
Active IngredientMechanism of ActionReference
Metal Oxides (Inorganic Compounds)Zinc oxideReflects and scatters UV radiation; provides broad-spectrum protection (UVA + UVB)[23,25,26,27,28,34,39]
Titanium dioxideReflects and scatters UV radiation; primarily provides UVB and short UVA protection[24,25,27,28,31,32,33,34,36]
Nano zinc oxideAbsorbs and scatters UV radiation; provides broad-spectrum protection (UVA + UVB)[23]
Nano titanium dioxideAbsorbs and scatters UV radiation; provides UVB and some UVA protection[23]
PolymersPolyquaternium-51Moisturizing polymer; forms a protective film, not a UV filter itself[35]
Polysiloxane-15Absorbs UVB radiation; provides UVB protection[34]
Botanical Extracts and Natural Phenolic CompoundsWampee seed oilAntioxidant; provides potential indirect UV protection by neutralizing ROS[35]
Hemp seed oilRich in antioxidants and essential fatty acids; supports barrier function, provides indirect UV protection[29,37]
Radix Scutellariae extractContains flavonoids (e.g., baicalin); provides antioxidant effects and UVA protection[34]
Rutin (a flavonoid glycoside)Antioxidant; absorbs UVB; supports photoprotection[34]
Ferulic acid (a phenolic acid)Strong antioxidant; stabilizes other UV filters; absorbs UVB and some UVA[32]
Aromatic Esters/UV Filters (Ester-Type)Octyl methoxycinnamate (UV filter; cinnamate derivative)Absorbs UVB radiation; provides UVB protection[30,32,33]
Methoxydibenzoylmethane (Avobenzone; dibenzoylmethane-type UV filter)Absorbs UVA radiation; provides UVA protection[32,33]
Diethyl amino hydroxy benzoyl benzoic acid hexyl esterBroad-spectrum UVA filter; absorbs UVA I and II[26,34]
Bis-ethyl hexyloxy phenol methoxyphenyl triazineBroad-spectrum UV filter; highly photostable; provides UVA + UVB protection[34]
Diethylhexyl Butamido TriazonBroad-spectrum UV filter; absorbs UVB and some UVA[26]
Terephthalidene Dicamphor Sulfonic AcidUVA filter; water-soluble and photostable[26]
Two-ethylhexyl phenol methylamino benzene piperazineBroad-spectrum filter; absorbs UVA and UVB[26]
OctocrileneAbsorbs UVB and some UVA II; photostabilizer for other filters like avobenzone[26]
BenzophenonesBenzophenone-3Absorbs UVB and UVA II; provides broad-spectrum protection[30]
Benzophenone-4Mainly UVB protection with some UVA II absorption; water-soluble[30]
VitaminsNiacinamide (vitamin B3)Antioxidant; reduces UV-induced damage and inflammation; does not filter UV but enhances photoprotection[27]
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MDPI and ACS Style

Urrea-Victoria, V.; Guerrero Casas, A.S.; Castellanos, L.; Serafini, M.R.; Aragón Novoa, D.M. Lip Photoprotection Patents (2014–2024): Key Trends and Emerging Technologies. Cosmetics 2025, 12, 161. https://doi.org/10.3390/cosmetics12040161

AMA Style

Urrea-Victoria V, Guerrero Casas AS, Castellanos L, Serafini MR, Aragón Novoa DM. Lip Photoprotection Patents (2014–2024): Key Trends and Emerging Technologies. Cosmetics. 2025; 12(4):161. https://doi.org/10.3390/cosmetics12040161

Chicago/Turabian Style

Urrea-Victoria, Vanessa, Ana Sofia Guerrero Casas, Leonardo Castellanos, Mairim Russo Serafini, and Diana Marcela Aragón Novoa. 2025. "Lip Photoprotection Patents (2014–2024): Key Trends and Emerging Technologies" Cosmetics 12, no. 4: 161. https://doi.org/10.3390/cosmetics12040161

APA Style

Urrea-Victoria, V., Guerrero Casas, A. S., Castellanos, L., Serafini, M. R., & Aragón Novoa, D. M. (2025). Lip Photoprotection Patents (2014–2024): Key Trends and Emerging Technologies. Cosmetics, 12(4), 161. https://doi.org/10.3390/cosmetics12040161

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