We tested 18 lip balms over 6 months to find the ones that actually heal dry, cracked lips without constant reapplication.
A thick, petrolatum-based ointment that seals in moisture and lets lips heal overnight. It contains panthenol and glycerin but no added fragrance, making it safe for very chapped or cracked lips.
A leave-on overnight mask with hyaluronic acid and vitamin C that softens and exfoliates dead skin cells while you sleep. The berry scent is pleasant but may be too strong for sensitive noses.
A beeswax-based balm that provides reliable everyday moisture at a budget price. It's not the longest-lasting, but it glides on smoothly and comes in several tinted and untinted options.
A lightweight balm with broad-spectrum SPF 25 that protects lips from sunburn without a white cast. The shea butter and avocado oil base feels comfortable, though it requires reapplication after eating or swimming.
A medicated balm with camphor, menthol, and phenol that temporarily relieves pain and itching from severely chapped lips. It has a strong medicinal scent and a tingling sensation that some users find off-putting.
A luxurious tinted balm with SPF 15 that hydrates and adds a subtle wash of color. The sugar-based formula smells like lemon and feels smooth, but it's expensive for the amount you get.
An affordable balm with shea butter and jojoba oil that provides long-lasting moisture without a heavy feel. It has a faint, clean scent and works well under lipstick.
A petroleum jelly-based balm with a rosy tint that locks in moisture and gives lips a soft sheen. It's non-comedogenic and fragrance-free, but the tin packaging can be unhygienic for some.
A certified organic balm made with avocado oil, jojoba oil, and beeswax that's gentle on sensitive lips. It has a subtle peppermint scent and a firm texture that softens with body heat.
A multipurpose rose-scented ointment that soothes dry lips, cuticles, and minor skin irritations. It's a cult classic with a vintage feel, though the tin can be messy to use on the go.
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