Chemist at Play Ceramides + 2% Kojic Acid Tinted Lip Balm (Cherry)

Chemist at Play Ceramides + 2% Kojic Acid Tinted Lip Balm (Cherry) SPF 50 PA++++ 10g is a targeted dermatological lip treatment developed by Innovist to address chronic lip pigmentation, photo-damage, and barrier breakdown. Combining clinical active concentrations with high-factor broad-spectrum sun filters, this formulation delivers deep restorative hydration while actively reversing stubborn discoloration on delicate labial tissue.

The foundation of the formula is 2% Kojic Acid Dipalmitate—a lipid-soluble, highly stable derivative of Kojic Acid that penetrates the vermilion border to inhibit melanin synthesis and fade sun spots, smoker's darkening, and post-inflammatory pigmentation. To restore barrier resilience, the formulation incorporates a multi-ceramide matrix—uniting plant-derived Rice and Konjac ceramides with essential phospholipids and sphingolipids—to heal micro-fissures and curb trans-epidermal moisture loss. This barrier base is further bolstered by collagen-signaling Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1, moisture-binding Sodium Hyaluronate microspheres, antioxidant Vitamin E, and photostable SPF 50 PA++++ chemical sun filters.

Free from mineral oil, petrolatum, parabens, and sulfates, this vegan and cruelty-free lip balm glides smoothly across dry lips, imparting a juicy cherry-red glaze, subtle plumpness, and 24-hour hydration.

How It Works & Key Benefits

• Targeted Pigmentation Reduction: 2% Kojic Acid Dipalmitate inhibits the tyrosinase enzyme, downregulating excess melanin synthesis to brighten dark, discolored lips within 30 days.

• Broad-Spectrum UV Defense: Photostable organic filters (SPF 50 PA++++) absorb UVA and UVB radiation, preventing recurrence of sun-induced lip darkening and premature collagen breakdown.

• 24-Hour Barrier Hydration: Konjac and Rice ceramides replenish depleted intercellular lipids, sealing in hydration and preventing chapping throughout the day.

• Plumping & Fine-Line Smoothing: Hyaluronic acid microspheres and Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1 stimulate structural matrix integrity, smoothing fine vertical creases and restoring suppleness.

Core Active Ingredients & What They Do

• Kojic Acid Dipalmitate (2%): Lipid-soluble ester of Kojic Acid that suppresses melanin overproduction, helping fade dark patches, restore natural lip tone, and brighten sallow lip color.

• Broad-Spectrum UV Filter Complex (Diethylamino Hydroxybenzoyl Hexyl Benzoate, Ethylhexyl Triazone, Butyloctyl Salicylate, Octyl Salicylate, Titanium Dioxide): High-performance photostable filters providing broad-spectrum SPF 50 PA++++ defense against tanning UVA rays and burning UVB rays.

• Botanical Ceramide Complex (Amorphophallus Konjac Ceramide, Oryza Sativa Rice Ceramide, Phospholipids, Sphingolipids): Biomimetic lipids that repair damaged cellular barriers, seal surface fissures, and enhance lip suppleness.

• Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1: Messenger peptide that stimulates collagen and glycosaminoglycan synthesis to smooth fine lines and improve lip firmness.

• Sodium Hyaluronate & Glucomannan: High-capacity humectant microspheres that bind ambient water to cushion, hydrate, and plump dehydrated tissue.

• Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter: Natural plant butter rich in stearic and oleic fatty acids that deeply conditions and softens rough, peeling lips.

• Tocopheryl Acetate (Vitamin E): Lipid-soluble antioxidant that neutralizes free radicals caused by UV rays and environmental exposure.

Formula Feel/Absorption/Finish

• Feel: Cushiony, silky glide that melts smoothly across lips without waxy resistance or drag.

• Absorption: Sits as a comfortable, protective barrier shield that sustains continuous moisture for hours.

• Finish: Glossy, sheer cherry-red glazed sheen with a completely non-sticky, non-greasy feel.

Skin Barrier & Surface Finish

• Skin Barrier: Fortified against environmental dryness, UV damage, and peeling via bio-compatible ceramides, phospholipids, and shea butter.

• Surface Finish: Smooth, glazed, and subtly tinted; acts as a hydrating lip primer under lipsticks or as a standalone glossy tint.

Skin Type

• Pigmented & Discolored Lips: Specifically targeted to brighten lips darkened by sun exposure, smoking, or post-inflammatory marks.

• Dry, Flaky & Chapped Lips: Provides deep conditioning and 24-hour hydration to restore softness.

• Sun-Exposed Lips: Essential for anyone spending time outdoors or seeking daily daytime UV protection for the lips.

• Sensitive Lips: Free from parabens, mineral oils, and harsh alcohols.

Concerns Solved

• Dark, pigmented, and uneven lip tone

• Daily UV-induced tanning and photoaging

• Chronic chapping, cracking, and peeling

• Thin, dehydrated lip texture with visible vertical lines

Texture

Silky, buttery glide balm with a cushiony, melt-in jelly texture.

Usage Time

• Daytime (AM & On-the-Go): Apply each morning as the final step of your skincare routine, and reapply every 4 to 6 hours throughout the day, especially before sun exposure or after meals.

• Nighttime (PM): Can also be applied as an overnight lip treatment to boost cellular repair and pigmentation fading while sleeping.

Compatible Routines

• Daily Sun Protection: Pairs with morning facial sunscreen application to ensure complete facial UV coverage.

• Lip Makeup Base: Apply a thin layer 5 minutes before applying matte or drying lipsticks to maintain hydration.

• Exfoliation Routine: Use directly following a gentle lip scrub to nourish newly exposed skin cells.

Who Should Avoid It

• Individuals with known hypersensitivity to Kojic Acid, chemical sunscreen filters, or specific food-grade flavorings and colorants (CI 77491, CI 15880:1, CI 15850:2).

• Avoid applying directly onto active open cuts, weeping cold sores, or bleeding lips.