Based on the provided reference, the exact answer is no, lip balm is generally not considered a liquid in specific contexts, particularly for travel security.
Understanding the Classification
While some cosmetic products like creams and gels are classified as liquids for security screening purposes, solid or semi-solid lip balms fall into a different category.
According to the reference:
"Any liquid, aerosol, gel, cream, or paste may be flagged during screening and will require additional security checks. Chapstick, lipstick, and solid lip balms are not considered liquids by the TSA."
This is a crucial distinction for travelers.
Why the Distinction Matters
The primary reason for this classification relates to travel security regulations, such as those enforced by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) in the United States. Their rules on liquids, aerosols, gels, creams, and pastes (often referred to as the 3-1-1 rule for carry-on bags) require these items to be in containers 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) or smaller and placed in a single quart-size plastic bag.
Because solid lip balms like Chapstick and lipstick are considered solids or semi-solids that maintain their shape at room temperature, they are exempt from these specific liquid restrictions.
Practical Implications
This classification has practical benefits for everyday life and especially for travel:
- Travel Security: You do not need to place solid lip balm in your clear plastic liquids bag when going through airport security.
- Carry-On Convenience: Solid lip balms can be kept easily accessible in your pocket, handbag, or the main compartment of your carry-on luggage.
- No Volume Limits: Unlike liquids, there are typically no specific volume limits for solid lip balm containers you bring onto a plane.
Examples of items typically not considered liquids by TSA (including lip balm):
- Lipstick
- Solid Deodorant
- Solid Lip Balm (including Chapstick)
- Cheeses (solid)
- Candy bars
Note: While solid lip balms are exempt, lip products that are genuinely liquid, gel, or cream-based and not solid may still be subject to liquid rules. Always check the consistency of the product.
In summary, while the physical state of lip balm might seem like a paste or solid, for important regulatory purposes like air travel, it is officially classified as not a liquid.
