The harsh, dry air of a British winter is brutal on our lips. With skin thinner and more sensitive than anywhere else on the body, and lacking protective oil glands, our lips are defenceless against the elements. The result is a familiar search through coat pockets and handbags for a trusty lip balm to provide relief.
But with countless options on the market—from basic sticks to tinted, flavoured, medicated, and SPF-infused varieties—how do you choose the one that truly works? To cut through the noise, a comprehensive test was conducted, evaluating 37 different lip balms with the help of 29 testers ranging from their 20s to 90s. The goal was simple: to identify which products effectively moisturise and prevent chapping.
How We Found the Top Performers
The testing process was rigorous. Testers sampled products for up to a week, providing feedback on flavour, texture, hydration, and overall performance. The selection included old favourites, bestselling consumer picks, and viral sensations from social media platforms like TikTok. The insights of two board-certified dermatologists, Dr. Oyetewa Asempa and Dr. Corey L. Hartman, were also incorporated to explain the science behind lip care and debunk common myths.
The results revealed clear winners across several categories, proving that the right balm for you depends on your specific needs and preferences.
The Standout Champion: Kiehl's Lip Balm #1
Earning the title of best overall, Kiehl's Lip Balm #1 received near-perfect scores for hydration and user satisfaction. Testers praised its effective blend of squalane, shea butter, and vitamin E, which absorbed well without a greasy feel. It was noted for being fragrance-free and providing a subtle gloss. However, at $14 per tube, some found it pricey, and a 2024 reformulation that removed petrolatum has drawn mixed reviews from long-time users.
Best for Your Wallet: Vaseline Lip Therapy Original Mini
For a reliable, no-frills solution, Vaseline Lip Therapy remains unbeatable. Its key ingredient, petrolatum, is a powerful occlusive that seals in moisture. Dermatologists confirm it is non-allergenic and safe, despite misconceptions about its petroleum base. It's inexpensive and widely available. The main drawbacks are its pot packaging, which can be messy, and environmental concerns regarding its petroleum origin.
Specialist Picks for Specific Needs
The tests also identified top performers for more specific requirements:
Best Tinted Balm: Burt's Bees Tinted Balm offers a hint of colour with excellent hydration, thanks to a botanical wax blend and shea butter. Its boosted version promises 24-hour moisture.
Best for Severe Chapping: Dr. Dan's Cortibalm contains 1% hydrocortisone, the highest over-the-counter steroid concentration, making it highly effective for cracked, painful lips. It should be used for short periods only.
Best with SPF: Supergoop Glow Gloss combines broad-spectrum SPF 40 protection with a pleasant texture and slight tint, making sun protection for lips feel luxurious rather than clinical.
Expert Advice on Lip Care
Dermatologists Dr. Asempa and Dr. Hartman provided crucial insights during the testing. They explained that lip balms work using three types of ingredients: humectants (like hyaluronic acid) to draw in moisture, emollients (like ceramides) to smooth skin, and occlusives (like petrolatum and beeswax) to lock moisture in.
They also addressed common concerns. Allergies can develop, especially to fragrances, colours, or lanolin. Lip balms should be replaced every 6 to 12 months, or sooner if the texture or smell changes. Crucially, they debunked the myth of lip balm addiction: while behavioural habits can form, the products themselves are not chemically addictive.
Ultimately, protecting your lips this winter is about choosing a balm with the right ingredients for your needs and applying it consistently. Whether you prioritise cost, colour, sun protection, or intensive repair, there is a standout product from this extensive test that can help keep your lips comfortable and hydrated through the coldest months.
