Chapped lips are a universal annoyance. But most lip balms just mask the problem, forcing you to reapply constantly. The best lip balms don’t just feel good – they actually heal your skin. This guide cuts through the hype and delivers the top picks, backed by testing and real-world results.
Why Your Lip Balm Might Be Making Things Worse
Your lips are different. They don’t produce their own oil like the rest of your skin. That means they rely on external hydration. Many balms contain ingredients that strip moisture rather than locking it in. Fragrances, menthol, and even some “healing” ingredients can worsen dryness over time.
The key is finding a balm that rebuilds your lip barrier without irritating it. Here’s what works.
The Best Lip Balms, Tested and Ranked
1. Aquaphor Lip Repair Ointment: The Gold Standard
If you want one lip balm to keep forever, make it Aquaphor. This is a no-frills, fragrance-free formula that’s safe for even the most sensitive skin. It contains shea butter, castor oil, and vitamins to nourish and protect.
Why it works: Aquaphor creates a breathable barrier that locks in moisture without feeling greasy. It’s also available with SPF 30 for daily sun protection.
- Key Ingredients: Shea butter, castor oil, vitamins C, E, provitamin B5, chamomile.
- Pros: Fragrance-free, hypoallergenic, long-lasting hydration.
- Cons: Not vegan, some may find the texture too thick.
2. Vaseline Lip Therapy Cocoa Butter: Affordable and Effective
The original Vaseline isn’t hydrating enough on its own. But the cocoa butter version is a game-changer. It adds a creamy texture that actually moisturizes. The full-size jar is endless, so opt for the stick form for hygiene.
Why it works: Cocoa butter is rich in fatty acids that nourish and protect. The stick form makes it easy to apply on the go.
- Key Ingredients: Cocoa butter, petroleum.
- Pros: Nourishing, doubles as lip gloss, available in rosy pink tint.
- Cons: Not vegan, no added SPF.
3. Tower28 LipSoftie Lip Treatment: Clean and Comfortable
Tower28 is a standout brand for clean formulations. Their LipSoftie Lip Treatment is backed by eczema, rosacea, and psoriasis associations. The plump texture hydrates without stickiness.
Why it works: The sheer finish is flattering, and the flavors (like dulce de leche and ube vanilla) smell delicious.
- Key Ingredients: Shea butter, jojoba oil, lysine.
- Pros: Eczema-approved, no artificial flavorings, minimal packaging.
- Cons: Limited tint range, needs reapplication.
4. Sun Bum Mineral SPF 30 Sunscreen Lip Balm: Sun Protection First
Protecting your lips from the sun is essential. Sun Bum’s SPF 30 balm provides broad-spectrum protection without harsh chemicals.
Why it works: The mineral formula is gentle on sensitive skin, and it pairs well with other hydrating balms.
- Key Ingredients: Zinc oxide, shea butter, vitamin E.
- Pros: Broad-spectrum SPF 30, reef-safe, mineral-based.
- Cons: Can leave a slight white cast.
5. Laneige Lip Sleeping Mask: Overnight Repair
This cult favorite isn’t just hype. The Laneige Lip Sleeping Mask is loaded with butters that deeply hydrate overnight.
Why it works: The thick formula seals in moisture while you sleep.
- Key Ingredients: Berry fruit complex, coconut oil, murumuru butter, shea butter, vitamin C.
- Pros: Multiple flavors, effective overnight repair.
- Cons: Contains artificial fragrance.
Honorable Mentions
- Eos 24H Moisture Super Balm: Solid ingredients, but can be sticky.
- Burt’s Bees Beeswax Lip Balm: A classic, but not the most hydrating.
- Glossier Balm Dotcom: Multipurpose, but can feel clumpy.
Avoid These Lip Balms
- Nivea Dewy Lip Care: Contains unnecessary additives.
- Blistex Lip Medex: Menthol and camphor worsen dryness.
- Carmex Classic Lip Balm: Similar issues to Blistex.
When to See a Dermatologist
If your lips are severely cracked, bleeding, or don’t improve with treatment, see a dermatologist. Underlying conditions like cheilitis or infections may require medical attention.
The Bottom Line
The best lip balm isn’t just about temporary relief. It’s about rebuilding your lip barrier and keeping it hydrated. Choose a fragrance-free formula with nourishing ingredients, and don’t forget the SPF. Your lips will thank you
