The 16 best lip balms we tested for hydrating dry, chapped lips (2025)

Let’s talk about the never-ending battle against dry, flaky lips. You know the struggle: one minute, you’re feeling fine, and the next, you’re desperately rummaging through your bag for anything that might soothe your parched pout. We’ve all been there, and it’s not fun.

But don’t worry, we’ve got your back (or should I say, lips?). I’ve tested more of the best lip balms than I care to admit, from the classic Chapstick to the fancier Laneige Lip Sleeping Mask to our team favorite, Lanolips. Some were great, some were meh, and some… well, let’s just say they’re better off forgotten. But through all the trial and error, I’ve discovered some real gems that’ll make your lips happier than a kid in a candy store.

So, let’s dive into the world of lip balms. Whether you’re a balm addict or just someone who’s tired of licking their lips every five seconds, I promise you’ll find something here that’ll make your smoocher sing. Check out our FAQs below for all things lip balm!

Best Overall: Lanolips 101 Ointment Multipurpose Superbalm

While we stand by all of the lip balms in this list, the Lanolips 101 Ointment Multipurpose Superbalm is my go-to for everyday use. I’ve spoken with dozens of people who all rave about it, so when put to the test, it surely met the hype. It provides a hydrating sheen without it being too goopy to eat or apply lipstick after.

Best Drugstore: Aquaphor Lip Repair Ointment

Storytime: When I was in middle school, I tested a bunch of drugstore skincare brands on Petri dishes to see which ones were the most hydrating (long story short, gelatin served as the skin). Well, Aquaphor tested the best and ever since, I’ve been using the brand’s lotions and lip products.

Best Splurge: Dior ‘Dior Addict’ Lip Glow

Looking for a luxe lip balm? The Dior Addict Lip Glow comes in the prettiest packaging ever, is a universal lip color, and is super hydrating for days out in the cold. Commerce Writer, Emma Sutton-Williams always has a tube of it in her purse.

“It’s ultra hydrating and nourishing for my lips. I’m a Chapstick kind of girl but now I’ve been converted to Dior Addict Lip Glow because it’s lip tint plus lip balm. It’s also long-lasting. I’m serious — as long as I have money, I’m never going back. Raspberry is my favorite.”

Best Moisturizing Lip Balm: Laneige Lip Sleeping Mask

Meet the holy grail of the lip game. Laneige’s Lip Sleeping Mask has a cult following and is the perfect product to apply right before bed. This best lip mask sits on top of my nightstand, and when I wake up, my lips don’t feel cracked or dry; it’s simple, hydrating, and effective.

Best Tinted Lip Balm: Glossier ‘Ultralip’

Kill two birds with one stone — a hydrating balm with a subtle tint. Glossier’s ‘Ultralip’ is one of my favorites (especially if I don’t want stains on my coffee mug) and the shades ‘Lucite’ (a soft peony pink), ‘Fête’ (a watermelon red) and ‘Trench’ (a toffee brown) complement a variety of skin tones.

Best Pigmented: Charlotte Tilbury Hyaluronic Happikiss Lipstick Balm

Charlotte Tilbury did it again with its Happikiss Lipstick Balm in the much-loved ‘Pillowtalk’ shade. That said, it’s perfect to nourishingly prime and pair with the iconic lipstick and lip liner to match.

Best Lip Balm for Chapped Lips: Caudalie Lip Conditioner

Caudalie is one of my favorite skincare brands, especially for its Vinopure cleanser, serum, and moisturizer trio). Remaining consistent with quality, its Lip Conditioner is a clear-show stick that is particularly great on your upper lip area and even right under your nose for the colder months.

Best Value: Klavuu Nourishing Care Lip Sleeping Pack

The Klavuu Nourishing Care Lip Sleeping Pack has been the lip balm in my purse for the longest time and is a definite dupe to Laneige’s Lip Sleeping Mask. However, this one has more of a sheen and a slightly goopier texture than Laneige’s blendable formula.

Best Oil: Clarins Lip Comfort Oil

This lightweight, non-sticky lip oil features a trio of organic oils, including Sweetbriar Rose, Hazelnut, and Jojoba, to deliver intense moisture and a glossy finish that enhances your lips’ natural beauty.

Best Lip Balm with Sunscreen: Softlips Vanilla Lip Balm Protectant with SPF 20 (5-Pack)

Oh, Softlips, you are my favorite lip balm with SPF. I have one in practically every place I need it: my purse, my vanity, my car console and more. You get the drill. But seriously, it’s the skinniest tube that offers affordable hydration. And, you can grab five of them for $15.

Best Lip Balm for Cracked Lips: Drunk Elephant Lippe Balm

When first unboxed, I was surprised Drunk Elephant’s Lippe Balm was unscented. But, when I applied it, I knew what the hype was all about — its obtuse size fully covered my lips in one swipe and it’s the cutest size we’ve ever seen. After testing Drunk Elephant’s full suite of best-selling skincare products, I think this lip balm is underrated.

Best for Sensitive Lips: First Aid Beauty Ultra Repair Lip Balm

I swear by First Aid Beauty, and its Ultra Repair Lip Balm is the only balm on this list with a buttery texture. If you’re blessed with dry or chronically dry skin — I unfortunately was — then this is the balm you need. No questions asked.

Best Shimmer: RMS Beauty Hydrating Tinted Daily Lip Balm

This multitasking balm combines the nourishing benefits of cocoa and shea butter with the protective properties of jojoba oil, leaving your lips soft, hydrated, and beautifully enhanced with a natural-looking tint and gentle shimmer.

Best Long-lasting: Charlotte Tilbury Charlotte’s Magic Lip Oil Crystal Elixir

Charlotte’s Magic Lip Oil Crystal Elixir was like getting a facial on my lips. Infused with hyaluronic acid, aloe vera and plant extracts, it’s an all-natural product that’ll give a refresh in the colder months.

Best Lip Balm for Dry Lips: Kiehl’s Since 1851 Buttermask Intense Repair Lip Treatment

Kiehl’s Since 1851’s Buttermask Intense Repair Lip Treatment is a standout product because of its mango butter infusion. Mixed with coconut oil (like many other balms in this edit), the addition of mango butter makes it a double-weighted hydrator that’s worth every penny.

Best for Men:

Aesop Cedar & Citrus Lip Salve is a sophisticated, unisex lip balm that combines the rugged essence of cedar with the refreshing zest of citrus, perfect for the discerning gentleman. This luxurious formula nourishes and protects lips with a blend of natural oils and butters, leaving them soft and hydrated without any greasy residue.

How we tested

We spent three weeks testing the most popular lip balms to find the ones that actually work. The Post Wanted team used each product during daily activities, from morning commutes to outdoor workouts. Here are the criteria we considered:

• Comfort: Does it provide instant relief? Does it immediately hydrate?
• Texture: Is it smooth, sticky, gritty, or waxy? How does it feel when applied vs. after being on the lips for some time?
• Duration: How long does it last? How much time is typical in between reapplication?
• Taste and fragrance: Is the scent subtle or strong? Does it have a taste?
• Packaging durability: Is the packaging effective? Is it easy to handle and manage? Does it protect the product well?

After extensive testing in various conditions and temperatures, we identified the lip balms that delivered consistent moisture without constant reapplication, unpleasant textures, or messy application.

FAQs

Which brand is best for lip balm?

Lanolips is often regarded as one of the best brands for lip balms by many users and beauty enthusiasts. Here’s why it’s a brand that stood out to us in testing:

Key ingredient: Lanolips lip balms are formulated with lanolin, a natural substance derived from sheep’s wool. Lanolin is known for its moisturizing and emollient properties, making it highly effective in soothing and hydrating dry lips.

Long-lasting moisture: Lanolips lip balms are known for providing long-lasting moisture to the lips. The rich and creamy texture of their products helps to create a protective barrier, preventing moisture loss and keeping the lips hydrated for an extended period.

Versatile formulas: Lanolips offers a range of lip balms with different formulations that cater to a variety of needs. Whether you prefer tinted balms, glossy finishes, or treatment-focused formulations, Lanolips has a product for you.

Natural ingredients: In addition to lanolin, Lanolips lip balms often include other natural ingredients that contribute to the overall health of the lips. These may include botanical extracts, oils, and vitamins, providing additional benefits beyond basic hydration.

Cruelty-free: Many users appreciate Lanolips for its commitment to cruelty-free practices. The brand is known for not testing its products on animals, making it a preferred choice for those who prioritize ethical considerations in their beauty purchases.

Of course, individual preferences always vary, and what works best for us may not be the best for you. However, based on Lanolips’ positive reputation, quality ingredients, and overall effectiveness, we definitely count this brand as one of the top choices on the market today.

What is the safest or healthiest lip balm?

When it comes to determining the safest or healthiest lip balms, there are some general criteria that we let guide us to some of our favorites, such as those from Khiel’s. Read on for our guide to finding the best lip balms that are also safe and healthy to use.

Natural and organic ingredients: Look for lip balms that use natural and organic ingredients, as they are often gentler on the skin. Avoid products with synthetic fragrances, colors, and preservatives, as these could potentially lead to irritation.

Hypoallergenic formulas: Opting for lip balms labeled as hypoallergenic minimizes the risks of allergic reactions. These products are generally safer for individuals with sensitive skin as well.

Free of harmful chemicals: Choose lip balms that are free from potentially harmful chemicals such as parabens, phthalates, sulfates, and petrolatum. These substances can be irritating or even have more serious health implications. Ick.

SPF protection: If you spend a lot of time outdoors, consider a lip balm with SPF to protect your lips from the sun’s harmful UV rays. Sun protection is important for overall lip health and can help prevent issues like sunburn and premature aging.

Non-comedogenic: If you are prone to acne or breakouts around the mouth, select a lip balm labeled as non-comedogenic. This means it won’t clog pores and is less likely to contribute to acne.

Dermatologist-recommended: Lip balms that are recommended or approved by dermatologists may be considered safer for use, as they are formulated with skin health in mind.

Cruelty-free: If ethical considerations are important to you, choose lip balms from brands that are cruelty-free, meaning they do not test their products on animals.

Is lip balm or Vaseline better for lips?

An age-old question. The most important thing to note when discerning the differences between lip balms and Vaseline, or petroleum jelly, is that Vaseline is more of an emollient top coat, protecting the moisture and hydration already on and in your skin. Lip balms, while they can also be more protective of existing hydration than able to impart it depending on ingredient hierarchy, tend to have ingredients like hyaluronic acid or lanolin, as we discussed, which infuse the skin with moisture.

Essentially, Vaseline can be helpful for protecting the lips, but if it’s real hydration you’re after, opt for a balm with a variety of hydrating ingredients.

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