Between the weather, artificial heating and cooling, and all the things we put on our lips, keeping them hydrated can be a major challenge. That’s why it’s crucial that you always have one of the best lip balms in your bag, desk drawer, or nightstand if you want flake-free lips.
Of course, “balms” don't just come in stick form. In fact, the best lip balms for dry lips come in a variety of formulas and textures to meet different needs. With that said, every lip balm is different. For example, if dry lips are a chronic (not just occasional) issue for you, look for thicker balms that contain nourishing and reparative ingredients like honey, ceramides, and shea butter. Spend a lot of time outside? Choose a formula with SPF for extra protection. And, if you're having a hard time wearing lipstick because it’s catching on your dry flakes, there are some amazing tinted lip balms out there that won't.
Keeping your lips plump and hydrated with a great lip balm takes just as much effort (read: none) as licking your lips — which, by the way, is a really bad idea as you’ll only be left with a parched pout once the water evaporates. And, just like your skin, it’s always important to make sure you’re drinking enough water, because dehydration could be a culprit behind chronically dry lips.
These nine fantastic lip balms will keep your lips soft and smooth all year round.
1A Multi-Use Cult Favorite Balm That Heals Rough, Cracked Lips
Smith's Rosebud Salve, $7, Amazon
Not only does this cult favorite balm promote hydrated and smooth lips, it’s also great for treating chapped skin, blemishes, detergent burns, rough hands, and ragged cuticles. When used on the lips, it imparts a subtle rosy hue that suits all skin tones, as well as a slight minty tingle.
2A Protective Acai Berry-Charged Balm With SPF 30
Supergoop! Fusion Lip Balm SPF 30, $10, Amazon
If you’re looking for a one-stop shop, this is it. Along with the antioxidant power of of the acai berry to guard against environmental damage and an SPF of 30 to protect against the sun, this balm contains ultra-hydrating shea butter that keeps lips feeling smooth for hours.
3A Rich Lip Conditioner That Makes A Great Base For Lipstick
DHC Lip Cream, $13 (2 Tubes), Amazon
This stick-like balm gives lips a protective glossy finish, complete with a natural glow. Aloe soothes an irritated pout while olive oil (DHC's signature ingredient) works to battle free radicals derived from the sun, pollution, and other pesky environmental factors. This balm serves as a fantastic primer for any lipstick, and can even be applied on top of color for extra glossiness.
4An Organic Balm With A Natural, Mineral-Based Tint
French Girl Organics Mineral Lip Tint, $20, Amazon
Considering using a lip balm is almost like a treatment product, it’s important the the ingredients are doing more good than harm. This tinted lip balm is made from 90 percent organic ingredients, including a blend of nourishing butters, waxes, and oils — all of which are vegan and plant-based. Along with giving lips a slight sheen, mineral-based tints (available in nine shades) provide gorgeous color that won’t cause dryness or cling to flakes.
5An Intense Overnight Lip Mask That Heals Cracked Lips While You Sleep
Aritaum Ginger Sugar Overnight Lip Mask, $11, Amazon
Perhaps one of the best times to slap on a balm is when you’re sleeping — not only because you’re not eating, drinking, kissing, or talking, but because it provides a window of opportunity for the lips to heal and repair while you’re at rest. While you’re in dreamland, this thick formula from Korean favorite brand, Aritaum, deeply repairs and hydrates. Ginger and sugar nourish dry lips, while shea butter locks it all in.
6A Classic Balm That Delivers Rich Hydration & Sun Protection
Palmers Cocoa Butter Formula Balm, $7 (3 Tubes), Amazon
You’d be surprised with what a little over two bucks a tube can do for your lips. This classic favorite, formulated with nourishing cocoa butter and Vitamin E, is a simple yet effective treatment for chapped lips. It also contains an SPF of 15, so it provides added protection everywhere from your walk to work to a day on the slopes.
7A Nourishing & Natural Oil That Comforts Dry Lips
Hanalei Lip Treatment, $15, Amazon
This natural lip treatment is formulated with nourishing kukui nut oil that's been sourced from Hawaii, moisture-locking shea butter, and antioxidant-rich agave and grape seed oil. For maximum smoothing and hydrating results, Hanalei recommends applying this oil at night after using their ultra-popular Maui Sugar Lip Scrub. The completely clear treatment comes in a huge squeeze tube, so if you're looking for something smaller, opt for the travel size.
8An Ultra-Concentrated Balm For Long-Lasting Shine
SkinFood Honey Pot Lip Balm, $10, Amazon
Don’t be deceived by the cute honey pot container. This ultra-hydrating, jelly-like balm provides instantaneous shine and hydration that lasts for hours. While you can also apply it with your finger, it comes with a small wooden applicator to help control the amount of product and keep the pot clean. Despite the berry color, this balm is un-tinted and looks clear when applied. Keep in mind that a little goes a long way!
9A French Pharmacy Staple That Soothes & Repairs
Vichy Aqualia Thermal Soothing and Repairing Lip Balm, $9, Amazon
Vichy has long been a French pharmacy staple and a go-to brand for people with sensitive skin. Not only has this sheer balm been successfully tested on sensitive lips — it’s also paraben-free. It relies on shea butter, glycerin, Vitamin E, and beeswax to nourish, repair, and protect dry lips without leaving behind a greasy film.
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