17 best lip balms Glamour editors are never without
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Lip balms are the pièce de résistance of makeup-skincare hybrids. Glossy like a lip gloss, but with the same skin-saving powder as a lip mask or lip scrub might serve.
We slather them on before bed, swipe them on in the morning, and refuse to leave the house without having at least one tucked in our work bags. They’ve become such a staple, in fact, that they’re now edging into the territory of becoming fashion accessories — attached to phone cases (thanks, Hailey) and dangling off our bags like charms alongside our Labubus.
“The skin on your lips is thinner and more prone to dryness, so it requires specific care,” shares Dr Christine Hall, GMC registered, general practitioner in medical aesthetics. “A good lip balm should not only provide immediate relief but also create a protective barrier that helps prevent moisture loss over time,” she adds.
Today's formulas are nothing like those waxy and sticky formulas of the past. Be it a tinted lip balm that offers a whisper of pigment to complete your daily lip combo, a cushiony lip mask to cocoon your lips overnight or a lip gloss/balm hybrid to replicate that coveted “glass” look, each iteration offers something unique and innovative. But with that comes the trouble: which lip balm is the best?
From my very first Nivea chapstick that stuck with me through my tweens, to my trusty Laneige lip mask that reminds me of my uni years, and, of course, my Rhode and Summer Fridays tubes that I've emptied time and time again – you could say that my expertise in lip balms knows no bounds. So, I set out to curate a definitive edit of all the best lip balms that the beauty industry has to offer. I've interviewed makeup artists and founders like Violette Serrat and Charlotte Tilbury as well as dermatologist Dr. Christine Hall and to help answer your burning FAQs – and settled on a finite list.
Meet the experts:
- Dr Christine Hall, GMC registered, general practitioner in medical aesthetics.
- Charlotte Tilbury, celebrity makeup artist and founder of her namesake brand.
- Violette Serrat, makeup artist and founder of her namesake brand Violette FR.
Is a lip balm really necessary?
“From facial expressions and non-stop talking to eating, drinking, harsh elements and travel, our lips are working overtime,” shares celebrity makeup artist and brand founder Charlotte Tilbury. “They are one of the first places to show visible signs of aging but are also one of the most difficult areas to perfect [through makeup alone], which is why so many people turn to lip balms and lip oils to hydrate, nourish and revive their pout,” she adds.
“The most important thing is that [the lip balm] actually works—which is surprisingly difficult to find,” says Violette Serrat, makeup artist and founder of her namesake brand Violette FR. “So many balms feel good in the moment but don’t do much long-term. I look for formulas that nourish deeply—not just coat the lips—and that contain the right balance of emollients and occlusives,” she explains.
“It also helps to understand what’s not in the formula — like water, silicones, or potential irritants — which can hurt lip health over time,” Violette explains.
Which ingredients make the best lip balm?
“Key ingredients that deliver lasting moisture include hyaluronic acid (which binds water to the skin) and glycerin (a component that acts as a humectant to draw moisture into the lips),” shares Dr. Hall. “Beeswax and shea butter form a protective barrier on the lips, sealing in moisture and preventing dehydration,” she explains.
“For more long-lasting hydration, I often recommend looking for balms that contain lanolin. This ingredient is particularly beneficial for extremely dry lips, as it mimics the skin's natural oils,” says Dr. Hall.
According to Dr. Hall, “coconut oil and avocado oil are also excellent natural options that deeply nourish the lips while keeping them soft and supple.”
Elsewhere, Violette points out that, often, “it’s not just about what ingredients are in the formula, but how they actually work together to support lip health over time.”
“A common ingredient that often shows up to help with glide is silicone—marketed as an occlusive, but it doesn’t support the skin barrier in the same way richer occlusives do,” she shares.
“On top of that, a lot of balms rely on common irritants or allergens like menthol or camphor. They might feel tingly and satisfying at first, but they can trigger irritation, which leads to more reapplying—and more dryness. It becomes a cycle that’s hard to break,” Violette explains.
How often should I use a lip balm?
“Consistency is key when it comes to lip care,” reiterates Dr. Hall. “I generally recommend applying lip balm several times a day, especially if you’re prone to dry or chapped lips.” This, of course, means somewhat ditching your lip stains and lipsticks.
“After showering or washing your face, when the lips are most vulnerable and likely to lose moisture, it’s a good idea to apply a layer of balm immediately. This helps lock in hydration before any moisture escapes,” she explains.
Dr. Hall also stresses the importance of always applying lip balm before bed. “The skin repairs itself during sleep, and applying a nourishing balm before bed can assist in the recovery process. For those in particularly dry or cold climates, I suggest keeping lip balm close at hand and reapplying whenever your lips feel dry,” she says.
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Which lip balms should you avoid?
“A lip balm should always be hydrating, softening and smoothing, and deliver clinically proven results both immediately and over time,” explains Charlotte.
“When it comes to lip balms, avoid those with high alcohol content, since it can strip the skin of its natural moisture, causing further dryness,” shares Dr. Hall. “Similarly, menthol, camphor, and salicylic acid – while often used in balms for their cooling or exfoliating properties – can irritate and dry out the lips over time.”
“It’s also important to steer clear of balms that contain overly synthetic fragrances or flavourings, as these can trigger allergic reactions or sensitivities, making lips more prone to dryness and irritation,” warns Dr. Hall. “Always check the ingredient list to ensure that the lip balm is free from harsh chemicals or allergens that could exacerbate any existing dryness or irritation,” she concludes.
“One of the first things I avoid is water-based formulas,” shares Violette. “Water might sound harmless — even hydrating — but it’s usually just a filler. When it evaporates, it can actually dry out lips, making things worse over time,” she explains.
How we tested the best lip balms:
The GLAMOUR team has collectively reviewed hundreds of lip balms – from tinted balms to nourishing lip masks and even hybrid ointment-like formulas – from coveted beauty brands like Dior, Rhode, Summer Fridays or e.l.f. Cosmetics. When testing each product, we've spared no effort in trying out various shades to see which of the bunch would genuinely impress us.
Why should you trust us? I, personally, have half a decades' worth of beauty testing experience – having written for GLAMOUR, Cosmopolitan, Marie Claire, Who What Wear, GQ, Vogue and Refinery29. Elsewhere, my colleagues – including GLAMOUR's Beauty Director Fiona Embleton and the brand's European Commerce Editor Sophie Cockett have decades' worth of experience combined.
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First, we've looked at ingredients. After all, even if the formula offers the most flattering shade range and the juiciest finish, if it doesn't score just as high in the ingredients department, it won't deliver lasting hydration – therefore defeating the whole point of using a lip balm in the first place.
Then, we've assessed finish, staying power, efficacy (did it actually make our lips feel softer over time?), scent, packaging and value for money. You can find out more about how we test here, otherwise, the lip balms in this edit are the ones we genuinely adore.
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Enter: our edit of the best lip balms of all time, tried & tested…
- Shades: 6, plus 4 clear options.
- Consistency: A non-sticky gloss-like formula.
- Key ingredients: Peptides, vitamin E, shea butter.
- Pros: Offers both scented and unscented formulas, delivers a glossy finish, reasonably priced.
- Cons: Nothing of note.
Why we love it: When it comes to glass skin and glossy lips, nobody does it better than Hailey Bieber. Trust us when we tell you that this viral Peptide Lip Tint from Rhode is one of the best shine-boosting formulas around. It's expertly formulated with shea butter and peptides, as well as cupuacu and babassu, which help maintain skin elasticity and ensure lasting moisture. Available in both tinted and colourless versions.
“Having tried the most recently released Lemontini iteration of the Rhode Peptide Lip Tint, I can confirm that I will be reaching for this formula all summer (and beyond). The glistening golden pigments effortlessly complements any lip combo, and the deeply conditioning formula helps keep my lips soft all day. The best part? This launch also marks a huge improvement to the consistency too, eliminating the gritty feel that was present in other lip tints,” shares Denise Primbet, GLAMOUR's Beauty Contributor.
Summer Fridays Lip Butter Balm
- Shades: 10.
- Consistency: Thick, glossy balm.
- Key ingredients: Shea and Murumuru seed butters, vegan waxes.
- Pros: Offers an impressive shade range, leaves the lips soft and glossy, has the best scent.
- Cons: Nothing of note.
Why we love it: Let's face it, is it really a lip balm round-up if it doesn't feature the viral Summer Fridays Lip Butter Balm? Didn't think so. Thanks to a vegan formula that’s saturated with shea butter, murumuru and plant-based waxes, this shine-inducing lip balm has a creamy texture that helps deal with any dryness and soreness that's prone to appear during the change of the seasons. It's available in several different hues that you’re bound to fall in love with (we highly recommend checking out the Pink and Brown Sugar options).
“The Summer Fridays lip balm has been my go-to formula for over a year now, and I genuinely think it deserves all the hype that it gets on TikTok. Not only does it leave my lips shiny and plump but it also delivers all the hydration that my lips so desperately crave throughout the day, making it a must all year round,” says Denise Primbet, GLAMOUR's Beauty Contributor.
Ole Henriksen Exclusive Pout Preserve Peptide Lip Treatment
- Shades: 8.
- Consistency: Cushiony gloss-like texture.
- Key ingredients: Peptides, Kokum butter.
- Pros: Delivers the shiniest finish, leaves lips hydrated for longer, has a pleasant range of scents.
- Cons: Nothing of note.
Why we love it: The Ole Henriksen Peptide Lip Treatment has become a viral icon across the realms of TikTok, but does it live up to the hype? The short answer is: yes, absolutely. Fuelled by peptides and natural plant butter, this formula is one of the best lip balms we've tested for extra-dry lips. Plus, it's also specially formulated to leave behind a gorgeous, dewy finish, along with lasting hydration. “I am a huge fan of the brand-new Peach Glaze shade, which is a great wearable shade for the summer. In fact, I haven't been able to put this tube down for the past year (ever since I first got my hands on it) – and safe to say, it's joined the rota of my all-time favourite lip products,” says Denise Primbet, GLAMOUR's Beauty Contributor.
Yves Saint Laurent Loveshine Candy Glow Balm
- Shades: 9.
- Consistency: Lipstick/gloss-like hybrid.
- Key ingredients: Maracuja oil, shea & jojoba butters.
- Pros: Offers sheer pigment, doubles as a lipstick, has a luxurious feel.
- Cons: Expensive.
Why we love it: This nourishing, premium lip balm from YSL is enriched with a blend of natural oils originating from maracuja, shea and jojoba – all of which help keep your lips nice and hydrated at all times. Available in 9 wearable shades, this formula offers a sheer, buildable coverage, making it a solid option to wear either by itself or alongside your go-to lip liner. Our Acting Fashion Editor Rosie Lai loved the nourishing feel and the subtle wash of sheen that it delivered upon application.
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Hourglass Phantom Volumizing Glossy Balm
- Shades: 20.
- Consistency: A thick, glossy balm.
- Key ingredients: Menthyl lactate, shea butter, avocado oil.
- Pros: An impressive shade range, doubles as a lip plumper, offers a high-shine finish.
- Cons: Expensive.
Why we love it: This all-rounder lip balm is perfect for anyone looking to simplify their beauty routine. This unique formula combines the properties of gloss, lipstick and lip balm and a lip plumper all in one formula – plus, it offers an extra glossy finish, which has also repeatedly received the seal of approval from none other than Sofia Richie herself.
“This lip balm offers one of the most extensive shade ranges out there, making it my go-to choice to complete my lip combo – whether I'm in the mood for a mauve-y nude, a pop of pink or a brown 90s lip. Above all, my lips are left plumped and nourished in the process, ensuring lasting hydration,” shares Denise Primbet, GLAMOUR's Beauty Contributor.
Tester: Denise Primbet, GLAMOUR's Beauty Contributor.
- Shades: 12.
- Consistency: A traditional balm.
- Key ingredients: Lanolin, beeswax, castor seed oil.
- Pros: Packs great skincare benefits, offers a wide range of scents and shades.
- Cons: May not work for those of us after more pigmented and glossier formulas.
Why we love it: Filled to the brim with castor jelly, antioxidants and natural emollients, this bestselling formula from Glossier is perfect for nourishing dry, chapped lips and keeping them quenched for hours at a time. Plus, there are loads of different colours (and scents) to choose from.
The stand-out shade has to be the newly launched banana pudding formula, which is, by far, one of the most delicious-smelling scents from the range (think: beachside holiday in a tube). Our Senior European Commerce Editor Sophie Cockett loved the weightless yet deeply hydrating feel and the fact that it didn't feel too greasy upon application, making it a universal formula to have at hand wherever you go.
e.l.f. Glow Reviver Melting Lip Balm
- Shades: 6.
- Consistency: Glossy balm.
- Key ingredients: Hyaluronic acid, shea butter, cocoa butter, mango butter.
- Pros: Affordable, offers impressive pigment and a high-shine finish.
- Cons: The fragrance is a little overwhelming.
Why we love it: Just when we thought e.l.f. couldn't impress us more, they've launched a range of melting lip balms that can rival some of the most luxurious formulas out there. Featuring six shades, this affordable formula leaves a dewy sheen and a subtle hint of pigment to complement every skin tone.
“I rarely fall for the product immediately, yet the second this lip balm touched my lips, I was hooked. The formula felt heavenly: cushiony, balmy and not at all greasy. The finish was ultra-glossy, which is always a plus. That said, I did find that the fragrance was a bit too much for me, which may not be an issue for some, but for those with sensitive eyes, this is definitely worth keeping in mind,” says Denise Primbet, GLAMOUR's Beauty Contributor.
Charlotte Tilbury Unreal Lips Healthy Glow Nectar Oil
- Shades: 6.
- Consistency: Juicy gloss/oil-like texture.
- Key ingredients: Hyaluronic acid, vitamin E and antioxidants.
- Pros: A hybrid 3-in-1 formula, has a pH-adjusting technology, feels ultra-nourishing on the lips, offers a gorgeous scent.
- Cons: Nothing of note.
Why we love it: “One of the things I love about my Unreal Lips is that you’ll see barrier-boosting results immediately,” shares Charlotte Tilbury. “In just one hour, your lips will be 249% more hydrated and look 45% smoother and softer,” she explains. This cocooning hybrid formula applies like a balm, feels like a lip oil and leaves a gloss-like finish. Available in six shades, this unique product also features 2 shades with a pH-adjusting technology, which means it will adapt to your exact skin tone.
“I've tested my fair share of lip balms in my lifetime, yet this hybrid formula from Charlotte Tilbury still managed to dethrone most of the oils, glosses and lip balms I used to swear by. I love the cocooning and nourishing feel as well as the super dewy and blurring finish,” says Denise Primbet, GLAMOUR's Beauty Contributor.
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- Shades: 1.
- Consistency: Rich, serum-like balm.
- Key ingredients: Phyto-collagen activator, tripeptides.
- Pros: Blurs out imperfections, delivers genuinely lasting hydration.
- Cons: Expensive.
Why we love it: “I don't know about you, but I always find that my lip balm doesn't last me as long as it should, but this genius formula from Violette FR is nothing of the sort. Not only does it deliver glass-like shine, but it also leaves my lips hydrated the longest (whether I'm wearing it overnight or throughout the day),” shares Denise Primbet, GLAMOUR's Beauty Contributor. lips.
“When I started formulating Balm Amour, I took a deep dive into the science of lip care to really understand what our lips need—and to make sure every ingredient in the formula had a purpose,” shares Violette. At its core, the Balm Amour is innovation at its highest, featuring high-performance actives to deliver the clinical dose of hydration that our lips so desperately need. Inside, you'll find phyto-collagen activator to stimulate the synthesis of Collagen Type I (which is the most abundant type of collagen in our skin). Elsewhere, it also features a potent tripeptide to help retain moisture and improve definition. According to Violette, what makes this lip balm different is the fact that “it’s a zero-compromise, waterless formula powered by skincare-grade actives in clinically proven concentrations.”
- Shades: 5.
- Consistency: Glossy, nourishing balm.
- Key ingredients: Peptides, ceramides, cherry oil.
- Pros: Acts as a beautiful charm, offers a luxurious formula, leaves a dewy finish.
- Cons: Nothing of note.
Why we love it: Not only does this luxury balm makes the chicest fashion accessory, but it will also leave the lips glowier than ever, making it a natural choice for those after a little more oomph. Although it only offers 5 shades in total, each is wearable enough to be enjoyed by all skin tones.
The pigment is more on the sheer side, however, it beautifully complements the natural colour of your lips in the process, making this lip balm a must for a subtle finish. “Ever since this lip balm first landed on my desk, it was love at first sight. I love the charm element, which adds to the luxurious experience. Plus, the formula is hands down, one of the most nourishing ones I've tested,” says Denise Primbet, GLAMOUR's Beauty Contributor.
Laneige Glaze Craze Tinted Lip Serum
- Shades: 7.
- Consistency: Rich, pigmented glossy serum.
- Key ingredients: Polypeptides, pomegranate seed oil, argan ceramides.
- Pros: Very pigmented formula, has a unique cushiony donut-shaped applicator.
- Cons: Nothing of note.
Why we love it: Powered by powerhouse nourishing ingredients such as polypeptides, pomegranate seed oil and argan ceramides, this K-beauty lip balm/lip gloss hybrid from Laneige is one of our firm favourites, and with good reason. It helps soften your lips after every application while ensuring lasting hydration.
“The star of the show is definitely the unique donut-shaped pillowy applicator, which feels all the more bouncy and therapeutic when swiping the formula across the lips. I absolutely adore the high-shine finish and the deeply nourishing feel that comes with it. Whether I wear it on its own or as a topper, it never fails to impress,” shares Denise Primbet, GLAMOUR's Beauty Contributor.
- Shades: 1.
- Consistency: Nourishing balm.
- Key ingredients: Ifidus extract and jojoba oil.
- Pros: Smells just like banana pudding, leaves a gorgeous golden sheen, feels nourishing.
- Cons: Expensive.
Why we love it: Loved by Sabrina Carpenter, the Prada lip balm is one of the best luxury formulas around, and deservedly so. Make no mistake: its chic packaging certainly earns it a few points, however, the formula itself is where this product shines. Infused with ifidus extract and jojoba oil, this formula feels incredibly soothing and nourishing on the lips, and can be easily worn either as a topper or on its own. “I've been obsessed with the newly launched banana iteration ever since it landed on my desk. Not only does it smell absolutely divine (literally like a banana pudding), but it also leaves a subtle yet beautiful golden sheen that effortlessly complements my natural lips,” shares Denise Primbet, GLAMOUR's Beauty Contributor.
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Milk Makeup Balmade Electrolyte Lip Balm
- Shades: 7.
- Consistency: Cushiony, slightly runny balm.
- Key ingredients: Magnesium, potassium, and zinc.
- Pros: Reasonably priced, unique electrolytes-infused formula, helps lock in moisture for longer, fun shade range.
- Cons: Not as pigmented.
Why we love it: One of the most recent launches from Milk Makeup, this lip balm features one of the most unique formulas around – all courtesy of the included electrolytes that help lock in moisture. It comes in seven fun yet wearable shades that are perfect for the summer (think: vibrant pinks, reds, purples and the more subtle peachy nudes).
“Milk Makeup has always been one of my favourite beauty brands, and this lip balm launch further cements my opinion. I love how refreshing and soothing it feels on the lips, leaving them silky soft within minutes after applying,” says Denise Primbet, GLAMOUR's Beauty Contributor.
Glow Recipe Glass Balm Lip Treatment
- Shades: 4.
- Consistency: Juicy serum.
- Key ingredients: Hyaluronic acid, glycerin, fruit actives.
- Pros: Offers the best-smelling formula, delivers a glass-like glow, has a cushiony applicator tip.
- Cons: Only offers four shades.
Why we love it: Having dropped just earlier this year, the Glow Recipe Glass Balms are ideal for those of us who love a scented lip product. Offering a glass-like shine (hence the name), the formula has been heavily inspired by the Bingsoo, which is a popular Korean dessert that usually involves shaved ice topped up with fruits and condensed milk. It comes in four shades in total, and each offers a gorgeous fruity scent that doesn't feel artificial or too headache-inducing.
“Although I love the scent, I must point out just how incredibly nourishing this product feels immediately upon applying. I love that, unlike other glossy lip products, this formula doesn't feel sticky at all, which definitely earns it some extra points in my book,” says Denise Primbet, GLAMOUR's Beauty Contributor.
- Shades: 6.
- Consistency: A thick mask.
- Key ingredients: Coconut oil, vitamin C.
- Pros: Deeply replenishes the lips overnight, feels soothing upon application, has a pleasant consistency.
- Cons: The process of application may be a bit messier.
Why we love it: Meet the best-selling overnight lip mask that comes approved by Kendall Jenner herself. It helps intensely nourish and smooth the lips while you sleep. Ideal if you wanted something a little richer in texture to treat the lips over just a few hours, leaving your lips silky smooth by morning. Available in six mouth-watering flavours, it plumps your lips with intense moisture, helping to minimise roughness and cracking due to dryness as well as reducing the appearance of fine lines.
La Roche-Posay Cicaplast Baume Lips
- Shades: Clear.
- Consistency: Traditional balmy texture.
- Key ingredients: Panthenol 5%.
- Pros: Fragrance-free, suitable for eczema-prone or sensitive skin, has barrier-repairing properties.
- Cons: May not be the best if you're looking for a glossy or a tinted balm.
Why we love it: La Roche-Posay is easily one of the best French pharmaceutical brands when it comes to treating sensitive skin. Made with a hypoallergenic and non-comedogenic formula, this lip balm helps prevent chapped lips by soothing and nourishing your skin with minimal yet effective ingredients. Not only is it not scented, but it also features a deeply hydrating, soothing and velvety consistency, making it ideal to wear before going to bed.
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Supergoop! Lipshades 100% Mineral SPF
- Shades: 3.
- Consistency: Traditional balm.
- Key ingredients: Peptides, murumuru, shea and mango butters.
- Pros: Offers SPF protection, leaves a sheer wash of colour, feels silky soft when applying.
- Cons: Only offers three shades.
Why we love it: Regardless of whether it's summer or winter, you should always have a good SPF product at hand to give your lips the protective boost they deserve. Not only does this SPF lip balm from Supergoop keep your lips protected but it'll also leave them feeling pillowy smooth immediately after applying. About the only qualm is that it only comes in three shades in total, which is significantly less compared to other competitor lip balms on the market. Still, given the importance of wearing SPF, this formula is definitely worth considering.
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