Lip balms are an absolutely essential beauty product – who wants to have chapped lips? Naturally, this rationale justifies my personal lip balm obsession. As a certified connoisseur, here are the top five that I always keep on hand.
- A Hidden Gem: Kopari Lip Glossy ($16 / 0.35 oz)
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This product does not get enough hype. The real ones know Jaclyn Hill put us on to this in 2016 when it was only $12 at Sephora.
Now, this coconut-flavored delicacy can be found at Ulta, or even better, discounted at TJ Maxx. Its delicious light coconut scent and plush feeling make for ultra-comforting wear. For those in search of a moisturizing, non-sticky, clear gloss, this one’s for you.
- Most Innovative Formula: The INKEY List Tripeptide Plumping Lip Balm (12.99 / 0.33 oz)
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This recent beauty launch claims to visibly enhance lip volume over time by helping to restore the skin barrier and retain moisture. Packed with peptides, this thick balm feels nourishing and has a beautiful shine to it. Upon application, it gives a smoothing appearance that seemingly fills in lip lines.
Personally, I haven’t owned it long enough to see any visible long-term plumping effects, but the reviews speak for themselves.
One review on Sephora.com reads, “I really like this! It makes your lips nice and juicy, but doesn’t make them sticky at all. It’s the perfect product when you want to reapply when you’re feeling dry. My lips have already started feeling better and this will definitely be my new staple!”
- Best Overnight Lip Mask: Too Faced Hangover Pillow Balm ($26 / 0.20 0z)
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Coming in five delicious flavors, this lip mask is truly the best of its kind. When I first applied this, I was slightly underwhelmed — however, after two days of using it, it felt like my lips had been conditioned into being permanently smooth.
I apply this before bed, and 9+ hours later I can still feel it on my lips. Plus, it’s cruelty free (no Laneige lip masks in this house). If you’re looking for a product to use at night and to see noticeable effects by the morning, this is it – your lips will be plump, moisturized and pillow-soft.
- Best Value: Bag Balm ($8.99 / 8 oz on Amazon)
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For the practical girls who just want a product that gets the job done, Bag Balm is a straightforward, cost-effective choice. It comes in an adorable green tin and contains a literal life supply of lip balm.
Plus, this household classic is multipurpose — use it for dry patches, cuticles, I even apply it on my eyelashes at night and I swear it makes them thicker. The best part is that I see this in every TJ Maxx ever for only $4. Its original retail price is also extremely worth it for the amount of product in the tin.
- Best Overall Pick: Summer Fridays Lip Butter Balm ($24 / 0.5 oz)
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This lip balm is my everything. I would buy it even if it cost $50. If I were three hours deep into a long road trip and I realized mine was still at home, I’d turn around immediately.
Exaggerations aside, this really is worth the price — the shades are gorgeous, they smell and taste divine, and they have the thickest, most luxuriously smooth feeling on the lips. Pink Sugar and Vanilla Beige are the best.
I hope this list is able to help you all find your next favorite lip balm. Happy shopping!