Best Lip Balms for 2026
Discover comprehensive reviews of the best lip balms to keep your lips hydrated, soft, and protected year-round. Our expert analysis covers top-rated formulas, ingredients, and value to help you find the perfect lip care solution for every season and skin type.
Updated January 2026 • 20 Products Analyzed
The Good
- Effectively moisturizes and heals chapped lips
- Affordable and great value for money
- Portable twist-up design for easy application
- Non-tinted and paraben-free formula
ChapStick Classic Original Lip Balm
ChapStick Classic Original is a timeless, no-frills lip balm that delivers reliable moisture and protection for dry, chapped lips. With its affordable price, convenient portable design, and proven effectiveness across many satisfied users, it's an excellent choice for daily lip care and outdoor protection.
The Bad
- Lacks flavor or tint compared to modern alternatives
- May feel too basic for those seeking advanced formulations
The Good
- Smooth application with excellent moisturizing properties
- Refreshing peppermint flavor and cooling sensation
- Natural ingredients without parabens or petrolatum
- Great value in 4-pack bundle format
Burt's Bees Original Beeswax Lip Balm
Burt's Bees Original Beeswax Lip Balm is a highly-regarded natural lip moisturizer featuring responsibly sourced beeswax, vitamin E, and peppermint oil. With over 68,000 reviews and great ratings, customers consistently praise its smooth application, effective moisturizing properties, and refreshing peppermint tingle. The 4-pack offers excellent value for this trusted, long-standing favorite among lip care enthusiasts.
The Bad
- Can melt in hot temperatures if left in cars
- Peppermint cooling effect not preferred by everyone
The Good
- Clinically proven to heal dry, cracked lips quickly
- Creates protective moisture barrier that lasts for hours
- Fragrance-free, paraben-free formula with nourishing ingredients
- Excellent value with convenient two-tube pack
Aquaphor Lip Repair Ointment
Aquaphor Lip Repair is a dermatologist-recommended lip balm that delivers clinically proven relief for dry, chapped lips with its nourishing formula of vitamins, shea butter, and chamomile. Users consistently praise its superior moisturizing performance compared to regular lip balms, noting its lasting protective layer and effectiveness as both daily treatment and overnight mask. The fragrance-free, paraben-free formula comes in a convenient two-pack at an affordable price point.
The Bad
- Small tubes may require frequent reapplication for some users
- Oily texture not ideal for those preferring lighter formulations
The Good
- Deeply moisturizes and locks in hydration effectively
- Soothing menthol cooling sensation refreshes lips
- Convenient tube dispenser with no mess
- Excellent value and affordable pricing
Carmex Classic Lip Balm
Carmex Classic Lip Balm is a highly-rated, long-lasting lip care product that combines cocoa butter with cooling menthol to soothe and hydrate dry or chapped lips. Its smooth, non-sticky formula and convenient tube design make it an ideal choice for daily protection and repair, especially in harsh climates. With exceptional value and proven effectiveness, this classic formula has earned its reputation as a reliable favorite for sustained lip health.
The Bad
- May feel slightly waxy to some users
- Traditional formula lacks trendy ingredients
The Good
- Fast relief from chapped, dry lips
- Long-lasting moisture seal throughout the day
- Affordable 3-pack with SPF 15 protection
- Smooth, non-greasy application and easy glide
Blistex Medicated Lip Balm SPF 15
Blistex Medicated Lip Balm is a highly effective, budget-friendly lip care solution that delivers fast relief from dryness and chapping. With SPF 15 sun protection and a long-lasting hydrating formula, it's ideal for year-round daily use. Consumers consistently praise its soothing medicated effect and excellent value as a household staple.
The Bad
- Limited novelty or advanced ingredients versus premium brands
The Good
- Hydrating with natural, organic ingredients
- Gentle and non-irritating for sensitive skin
- Smooth application without greasiness or stickiness
- Subtle, pleasant flavors that aren't overpowering
EOS 100% Natural & Organic Lip Balm Sticks (4-Pack)
EOS lip balm sticks deliver reliable all-day moisture with natural, organic ingredients like shea butter and jojoba oil, making them ideal for sensitive skin. Customers praise the smooth application, subtle flavors, and long-lasting hydration without greasiness. This affordable variety pack is a versatile everyday staple backed by positive reviews.
The Bad
- Requires frequent reapplication for extended wear
- Occasional product quality inconsistencies reported
The Good
- Deeply moisturizing without waxy residue
- Lightweight with subtle flavor-free formula
- Includes 3 shades for variety
- Non-greasy, natural-looking finish
Maybelline Baby Lips Moisturizing Lip Balm 3-Pack
Maybelline Baby Lips is a highly-rated moisturizing lip balm that delivers up to 8 hours of hydration with minimal waxiness. The 3-pack offers versatile options including tinted and clear formulas, earning consistent praise for softening lips and providing a natural, healthy appearance. With over 3,000 customer reviews and great ratings, it's a reliable choice for dry lips at an affordable price point.
The Bad
- Contains artificial ingredients, not all-natural
- Tinted shades may not suit all preferences
The Good
- Intensely hydrating with visible overnight results
- Rich yet non-sticky, comfortable texture
- A little goes a long way
- Helps with cracked, bleeding, and sensitive lips
LANEIGE Lip Sleeping Mask
The LANEIGE Lip Sleeping Mask is a luxurious overnight treatment that delivers exceptional hydration and repair for dry, chapped lips. With a rich yet non-sticky formula and visible results by morning, it has become a cult favorite for those seeking lasting moisture and softness. The product's high efficacy and gentle composition make it a worthwhile investment for lip care.
The Bad
- Premium pricing
- Some users expected applicator included
The Good
- Exceptional long-lasting moisture and healing properties
- Non-greasy, non-sticky formula with SPF protection
- Subtle, pleasant scents without artificial taste
- Multiple flavor options available year-round
Jack Black Intense Therapy Lip Balm SPF 25
Jack Black Intense Therapy Lip Balm is a premium SPF 25 moisturizer that delivers long-lasting hydration and healing for chronically dry lips. With lanolin-infused formula and subtle flavors, it outperforms budget alternatives and provides sun protection without stickiness or greasiness. Highly recommended for those seeking a durable, effective solution to chapped lips.
The Bad
- Premium price
- Contains lanolin; unsuitable for those with allergies
The Good
- Heals severely chapped lips within 24-48 hours
- Long-lasting moisturizing protection without constant reapplication
- Thick, non-sticky formula stays on through eating and drinking
- Hypoallergenic and safe for people with diabetes
O'Keeffe's Lip Repair Unscented Lip Balm (Twin Pack)
O'Keeffe's Lip Repair is a highly effective therapeutic lip balm formulated with seven moisturizing ingredients to heal extremely dry and cracked lips. The unscented stick balm creates a protective barrier that lasts for hours without being sticky or greasy, earning consistent praise from users who experience dramatic improvement in lip condition within days. With over 22,000 reviews and great ratings, this lip balm has built a loyal customer base that keeps repurchasing it for its proven healing power.
The Bad
- May require more frequent application in very cold climates
- Thick waxy texture not ideal for those preferring shiny/glossy finishes
The Good
- Highly moisturizing and non-greasy formula
- Fast healing for damaged, cracked lips
- Convenient stick format with no mess
- Great value for four sticks
Vaseline Lip Therapy Care Original
Vaseline Lip Therapy is a convenient, pocket-sized lip balm infused with Vitamin E that delivers effective moisturization and healing for dry, chapped lips. Users consistently praise its non-greasy formula, long-lasting hydration, and excellent value as a pack of four. The stick format offers superior hygiene and ease of use compared to traditional lip balm jars.
The Bad
- Less effective than the original jar version
- May not suit those seeking flavored options
The Good
- Award-winning formula in four flavors
- Perfect gift and stocking stuffer option
- Travel-friendly mini sizes
- Highly popular brand loved by teens
Summer Fridays The Lip Butter Balm Minis
This award-winning mini lip balm set features four delightful flavors in travel-friendly sizes, making it an ideal gift or sampler. The product offers excellent quality and brand prestige beloved by teens, though the premium price point may give some pause.
The Bad
- Premium pricing for limited-edition set
- Small size may not justify cost
The Good
- Excellent SPF 30 sun protection for lips
- Delicious tropical flavors—coconut, banana, watermelon
- Long-lasting moisturizing formula that feels smooth
- Vegan and cruelty-free with clean ingredients
Sun Bum SPF 30 Sunscreen Lip Balm Variety Pack
Sun Bum's SPF 30 lip balm trio delivers excellent sun protection with a smooth, hydrating formula enriched with aloe vera and vitamin E. The tropical flavors are delicious and long-lasting, making daily lip care both effective and enjoyable. However, some users note the strong sweetness and occasional dryness may not suit all preferences.
The Bad
- Oily texture melts easily in heat
- Strong flavor and sweetness not for everyone
The Good
- Excellent hydration with smooth, non-greasy application
- SPF 15 protection without unpleasant taste or smell
- Works beautifully as lipstick base or solo
- Affordable 4-pack value for daily use
NIVEA Smoothness Lip Care with SPF 15
NIVEA Smoothness Lip Care offers a reliable 3-in-1 solution combining sun protection, deep hydration, and repair in a convenient 4-pack. Formulated with shea butter, nourishing oils, and vitamins C and E, this dermatologically tested balm delivers smooth, moisturized lips without harsh chemicals. Customers consistently praise its effective hydration, smooth application, and compatibility with lipstick, making it a dependable everyday choice.
The Bad
- May leave ashy finish if applied alone
- Limited moisturization for severely dry lips
The Good
- Deeply hydrating without stickiness or residue
- Luxurious, non-irritating formula with elegant gold shimmer
- Comes with applicator spoon for easy application
- Works beautifully layered over other lip products
TATCHA The Kissu Gold Leaf Lip Mask
TATCHA's limited-edition Gold Leaf Lip Mask delivers luxurious hydration with an elegant shimmer effect that consumers consistently praise. While most users report soft, moisturized lips and appreciate the non-sticky formula, some experience irritation or find the price point unjustifiable for the product amount. Overall, it's a premium lip treatment that appeals to those seeking both efficacy and aesthetic appeal.
The Bad
- Expensive for relatively small product amount
- May cause irritation for sensitive lip users
The Good
- Exceptional hydration and nourishing formula
- Natural ingredients, free of harmful chemicals
- Sheer, long-lasting color with velvety texture
- Suitable as base for lipstick application
Fresh Sugar Lip Treatment SPF 15
Fresh Sugar Lip Treatment is a premium, nourishing lip balm with natural ingredients and a sheer tint that delivers exceptional hydration and a subtle rosy glow. Praised for its velvety texture, long-lasting color, and stunning packaging, it stands out from typical chap-stick products. However, it comes at a premium price point that some users find difficult to justify.
The Bad
- Expensive for the amount of product
- SPF claim questioned by some users
The Good
- Hydrating formula with long-lasting moisture
- Beautiful sheer coral tint for natural look
- Pleasantly scented and multi-purpose balm
- Rich texture feels nourishing and protective
Glossier Wild Fig Balm Dotcom
Glossier's Wild Fig Balm Dotcom delivers impressive hydration with its rich, emollient formula enriched with castor seed oil and antioxidants. While customers appreciate the pleasant scent, sheer coral tint, and long-lasting moisturizing properties, some have reported texture inconsistencies including a grainy or crumbly consistency that can be difficult to blend smoothly.
The Bad
- Grainy or crumbly texture inconsistencies reported
- May require layering with gloss for smooth application
The Good
- Excellent moisturizing formula with quality ingredients
- Ideal for sensitive skin and daily use
- Long-lasting hydration with smooth application
- Premium brand reputation for skincare quality
Kiehl's Lip Balm #1
Kiehl's Lip Balm #1 is a premium moisturizing lip treatment praised by long-term users for delivering smooth, hydrated lips with a fragrance-free formula containing squalane, aloe vera, and vitamin E. While many customers report excellent results and years of loyalty to the original formula, recent concerns about ingredient changes and inconsistent performance have emerged. The product excels for sensitive skin but experiences mixed reviews regarding lasting power and effectiveness for severely chapped lips.
The Bad
- Recent formula changes disappointing loyal customers
- Inconsistent results for severely chapped lips
The Good
- Hydrating and moisturizing formula with natural ingredients
- Smooth application with lasting glossy finish
- Aesthetically pleasing packaging
- Visibly plumps and softens lips
Rhode by Hailey Bieber Peptide Lip Treatment
Rhode's Peptide Lip Treatment delivers hydrating and plumping results with a smooth, glossy finish that appeals to most users. The formula combines peptides, shea butter, and cupuaçu to lock in moisture and soften lips. However, some concerns regarding product authenticity, durability of effects, and occasional quality control issues exist.
The Bad
- Authenticity concerns when purchased from third-party sellers
- Effects may wear off quickly for some users
The Good
- Silky, smooth texture that feels luxurious on lips
- Long-lasting moisturization and effective for chapped lips
- Wide, flat applicator allows two-lip application
- Clean formula: free of fragrance, silicones, essential oils
Drunk Elephant Lippe Balm
Drunk Elephant Lippe Balm delivers luxurious moisture and silky texture that effectively heals chapped lips without sticky residue or fragrance. While the formula is excellent quality with impressive longevity, the premium price point makes it significantly more expensive than comparable alternatives with similar performance.
The Bad
- Extremely small 3.7g tube at its current price
- High price point—vastly overpriced vs. alternatives