Most hemp seed lip balms contain hemp seed oil, a natural ingredient pressed from the seeds of the hemp plant. Since hemp seeds do not contain THC, hemp seed oil is considered non-intoxicating and safe for both cosmetic and food uses. That’s good news for travelers who don’t want to worry about their favorite lip balm at the airport.
TSA’s Stance on Lip Balms
The Transportation Security Administration’s (TSA) focus is on security and passenger safety, not cannabis enforcement. For lip care products, the rules are simple: solid lip balms or chapsticks are permitted in both carry-on and checked baggage. If the product is a liquid or gel formula, such as a squeeze tube or glossy balm, it must comply with the TSA’s 3-1-1 liquids rule—containers must be 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) or less and placed in a single quart-size bag.
Where Confusion Often Happens
Issues typically arise when a lip balm includes CBD or other cannabinoids, which differ from hemp seed oil. While the 2018 Farm Bill legalized hemp-derived products containing no more than 0.3% delta-9 THC on a dry weight basis, products with CBD or THC are still more heavily scrutinized. TSA has stated that “marijuana and certain cannabis-infused products, including some CBD oil,” remain illegal under federal law unless they meet federal hemp standards. In short, a simple hemp seed lip balm is fine, but a CBD-infused one may not be.
Why Label Reading Matters
From a regulatory standpoint, hemp seed oil and CBD are treated differently. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) considers hemp seed-derived ingredients safe, while products with CBD or THC fall under stricter review. This means travelers should read labels carefully before packing. If it clearly says “hemp seed oil,” you’re in the clear; if it mentions “CBD” or “THC,” it’s best to leave it at home.
Domestic vs. International Flights
Traveling with a hemp seed lip balm within the United States is straightforward. As long as the balm follows the TSA’s basic guidelines, there’s no issue. However, when crossing international borders, it becomes more complicated. Customs officials follow federal law, and cannabis or cannabinoid-infused products may be considered illegal imports. For international travelers, it’s safest to pack only hemp seed-based products with no cannabinoid content.
Quick Packing Tips
- Read the label: Look for “hemp seed oil,” not “CBD” or “THC.”
- Solid vs. liquid: Solids can go anywhere; liquids and gels must fit the 3-1-1 rule.
- Avoid international risk: Leave cannabinoid products at home when traveling abroad.
The Takeaway
For U.S. domestic flights, hemp seed lip balms without CBD or THC are completely TSA-friendly. Travelers can pack them just like any other chapstick or balm, making them an easy go-to for keeping lips hydrated from takeoff to landing.