Lip Balms That Actually WorkThe most basic beauty staple might just be the trickiest to get right
Photography by Mo LeungMake up by Jenny ShihHair by Seifert Cheung
With an abundance of secretly drying formulations in the market - as well as many that skip the all-important SPF factor - many of us are using a lip balm that doesn’t actually cover the simplest bases: moisture and sun protection. And with lips dehydrating quicker than the rest of our skin, it’s an essential skincare step to nail above all else. So, how does one determine an effective lip balm?
According to New York dermatologist Dr. Ellen Marmur, start by steering clear of anything that leaves a minty, cooling sensation. “Minty lip balms actually worsen dry, chapped, or sensitive lips!” warns Dr. Marmur. Ingredients like menthol, camphor, and phenol dry out your lips further, creating a vicious cycle where you apply your lip balm for relief only to need it again shortly after.
Secondly, choose a sun-safe formulation. “Pick a balm with at least SPF15. Skin cancer often shows up as chapped lip patches.” Dr. Marmur also recommends avoiding formulas with a high-shine finish, “Glossy lip balms can amplify UV and increase sun sensitivity,” explains Dr. Marmur.
Lastly, look for lip balms with both humectants (such as hyaluronic acid and glycerin, typically found in body and face moisturisers) and occlusive agents (such as beeswax, shea butter and oils). Why? Humectants on lips can pull moisture out of the skin, making lips drier. But when paired with occlusive agents, the moisture is sealed in. Dr. Marmur explains, “Think of humectants as little humidifiers that hold moisture on the skin. Think of occlusives as waxy or thicker ointments that layer themselves on the skin, holding in the skin's moisture.”
In need of a lip balm that ticks all the boxes? Our beauty team shares their top three picks.
FreshSugar Lip Treatment SPF15
A modern day cult beauty classic, Fresh’s Super Lip Treatment SPF15 protects and soothes the lips for six hours with the help of moisture preserving sugar and nourishing oils.
Perfect for those after a less waxy consistency, this rose wax and shea butter infused formulation insulates lips from the ageing effect of UV rays with SPF15, while healing, dry, chapped, weather-roughened skin.
Beeswax and aloe vera is paired with olive and wheat germ oils to create a comforting cocoon for your lips. Made with SPF15, this non-greasy formula leaves just the right amount of sheen.