The 15 Best Lip Balms and Treatments for Instant Hydration, Tested by Editors
Chapped lips? Never knew her.
The best lip balms have done so much more than heal my dry, chapped lips—they've also provided sun protection, added a subtle wash of color, and delivered the perfect swipe of gloss. To say I miss the ones lost in the abyss of my makeup bag is an understatement, but I find comfort in knowing there’s always at least one exceptional lip balm floating around in a random pocket or desk drawer.
My undying love for lip balms is obviously a direct result of the fantastic hydration they provide. But they have so many unsuspected pros, too. "Lip balm provides minimal shine, making it suitable for both men and women," says celebrity makeup artist Renée Loiz. "It also ensures a smoother lip liner and lipstick application without altering color or texture." Anything that can help your makeup apply faster and more seamlessly is a win in my book.
Whether you’re a beauty minimalist looking for a subtle, natural finish or a gloss lover seeking a nourishing alternative, there’s a lip balm out there to fit these needs and more. Lucky for you, the Marie Claire beauty team has tried and tested nearly every lip balm out there to create the ultimate guide to the best lip balms of 2024.
Ahead, you’ll find everything from luxe, high-end picks to our favorite tinted and untinted staples. Plus, stick around to the end for insights from celebrity makeup artists, a celebrity aesthetician, and a board-certified dermatologist to help you choose the perfect lip balm for your skin's unique needs.
The Best Lip Balms
- Best Overall Lip Balm: Laneige Lip Sleeping Mask
- Best Scented Lip Balm: Summer Fridays Lip Butter Balm for Hydration & Shine
- Best Lip Balm for Chapped Lips: Aquaphor Lip Repair Balm
- Best Drugstore Lip Balm: Burt's Bees Moisturizing Lip Balm
This leave-on lip mask comes in an array of flavors and tints (berry! gummy bear! vanilla!), plus limited-edition releases that fans like me can’t resist. While it’s technically a mask, it’s far from just an overnight treatment. Swipe it on during the day for a subtle tint and glossy finish, or wear it overnight to lock in serious hydration. Thanks to glycerin—a humectant that draws moisture from the air and seals it in—my lips stay soft, smooth, and fully quenched.
What I Love: Comes with an applicator so I don’t have to dip my finger into the packaging; can be used day or night; uses glycerin for lasting hydration
What I Don't: Thick texture isn't for everyone; some find it to be sticky
Review for MC: "While I know fragrance isn’t exactly skin’s best friend (it can be an irritant), I can’t help but love it when it’s subtle and not overdone—and the sweet berry scent of this lip mask is downright delightful. Beyond the scent, its thick (but non-sticky) texture is soothing and gives my lips a much-needed healing barrier. It’s a permanent fixture on my bedside table because I love slathering it on before bed to work its magic overnight. Plus, I keep a tube version (yup, that's a thing) in my bag at all times for a quick hit of glossiness, protection, and, honestly, a little TLC whenever I need it." — Marisa Petrarca, Contributing Beauty Writer
Contributing beauty writer Marisa Petrarca wears the Laneige Lip Sleeping Mask in Berry.
It’s hard to remember a time before Summer Fridays Lip Butter Balm was the most coveted lip treatment on the market, but surprisingly, the first version didn’t drop until 2020. Now, it’s available in several flavors that, along with its buttery texture, minimalist-chic packaging, hydrating formula, and lip-hugging applicator, make it a must-have among editors and beauty lovers alike. I’m personally obsessed with the OG vanilla, but the limited-edition Hot Cocoa is next on my list.
What I Love: Curved applicator for easy, mess-free application; available in multiple scents; vegan-friendly
What I Don't: Some shoppers mention the tube seems less full than expected
Review for MC: "Before trying the Summer Fridays Lip Butter Balm, I’ll admit that I was skeptical. With all the hype around it, I wondered if it was more about the aesthetic than the formula. But as it turns out, I was so wrong; I fell in love at first swipe (I know, cliché—but hear me out). The applicator is a game-changer. Its curved design hugs your lips perfectly, making application super easy and smooth. The texture is thick and soothing but not sticky. Like the Summer Fridays Lip Sleeping Mask, this balm has earned a spot on my bedside table. Depending on my mood, whether I’m craving a fruity scent or a cozy vanilla vibe, I alternate between the two flavors. The textures and finishes are similar, so you really can’t go wrong with either one." — Marisa Petrarca, Contributing Beauty Writer
Contributing beauty writer Marisa Petrarca wears the Summer Fridays Lip Butter Balm in Vanilla.
Celebrities like Beyoncé and Gwyneth Paltrow have long sworn by Aquaphor for its ability to keep lips feeling soft. I’m right there with them, especially when my lips hit that moisture-devoid, chapped stage, which feels unavoidable come winter. What sets this formula apart is that it doesn’t solely rely on hydrating ingredients; it also contains soothing panthenol and anti-inflammatory bisabolol. Combined with its long-lasting texture (that shoppers and myself love) it works to revive your lips or ward off dryness entirely.
What I Love: Has thousands of five-star ratings across the board; soothes chapped lips; fragrance-free; long-lasting
Cons: Has a bitter taste if you accidentally taste it (though ideally, you wouldn’t)
Review for MC: "My lips and dry winter air are not friends—in fact, I’m convinced mine react worse than most. They get unbearably flaky, cracked, and sometimes even burn. In these situations, I bring out the big guns: Aquaphor. I slather it on overnight to work its magic while I sleep, and during the day, I wear it in place of lipstick or gloss. Bonus: It gives my lips a subtle, glossy look while being completely unscented, which I know is better for their overall health in the long run." — Marisa Petrarca, Contributing Beauty Writer
Contributing beauty writer Marisa Petrarca wears Aquaphor Immediate Relief Lip Treatment.
Burt's Bees Moisturizing Lip Balm easily nabs the title of best drugstore find, thanks in large part to its cult-favorite status among celebrities (Margot Robbie is a fan) and loyal followers everywhere. Its formula uses everything your lips need to stay hydrated, protected, and nourished—emoillient oils, moisture-locking waxes, and moisturizing lanolin—and comes in three flavors: classic Beeswax (which famously has a refreshing peppermint scent), Pomegranate (pictured here), and Vanilla Bean.
What I Love: Has been around and well-loved since the '90s; made with responsibly sourced beeswax,; comes in tinted and untinted versions
What I Don't: Could potentially be irritating to those with sensitive skin or allergies
Review for MC: "Of all the lip balms on this list, this is the one I’ve been most loyal to. Sure, it’s not the sexiest option out there, but it’s dependable. This is the lip balm I reach for before a morning run when something glossy doesn’t feel right, or when my lips are extra chapped and need quick relief before hitting the gym. Not to mention, I own, like, 10 of them." — Marisa Petrarca, Contributing Beauty Writer
Other Lip Balms I Love
Contributing beauty writer Marisa Petrarca wears Burt's Bees Moisturizing Lip Balm.
If you're looking for the "best" of anything, the French luxury beauty brand Sisley should be at the top of your list. (I recently fell in love with the luxe brand's boar bristle brush, and the Nutritive Lip Balm is spotlighted here.) The formula is packed with a nourishing combination of humectants and emollients that work hand in hand together to revive even the driest lips. Yes, it's an investment, but with glowing reviews and our beauty editor Samantha Holender's seal of approval, it's a splurge that genuinely pays off.
What I Love: Lasts a long time; great for very dry lips; fragrance and essential oil-free
What I Don't: Some wish it came in a squeezable tube for easier application
A mainstay in the makeup bags of celebrities like Meghan Markle, the Fresh Sugar Lip Balm Hydrating Treatment is a handy, twist-off tube perfect for handbags and toddler-proofing. It’s ideal for those who love a super lightweight, silky formula, aren’t fans of heavier balms, and anyone craving a subtle wash of color. It keeps chapped lips in check, but when things get dire, I reach for Aquaphor and save this one for your everyday dose of moisture and tint.
What I Love: Twist-off cap won’t pop open in your bag; celebrity-approved; certified clean at Sephora
What I Don't: It used to have SPF, but the updated formula doesn’t include it anymore
We call this little tub of Vaseline "no-fuss" because, while it may not be the most aesthetically pleasing option on our list, it's incredibly effective. Its star ingredient is petroleum jelly (aka petrolatum), which locks in moisture and forms a protective barrier against cold air, wind, and other elements. The thick, soothing texture is a lifesaver for dry lips, and if you're craving something a bit more exciting, it also comes in scented versions. My favorite is the cocoa butter option I've highlighted here, which feels a touch silkier than the OG, but I'm also a big fan of Vaseline Rosy Lip Therapy.
What I Love: Mini size (0.25 ounces) is easy to keep on hand; most affordable option on our list; gentle on sensitive skin.
What I Don't: It’s smaller than some expect
Beauty editors are positively obsessed with Dior's Lip Glow balms, and the internet is in fierce agreement. This balm strikes the perfect balance—not too shiny, not too sticky—with a satin finish that feels like silk on my lips. Choosing a shade can be challenging with an impressive lineup of options, including a clear version that gives a glowy finish. My go-to combo? This, paired with its glossy sister, Dior Addict Lip Glow Oil. My Rosewood-shaded tube is constantly in my purse.
What I Love: Softens lips; comes in several sheer colors and a clear version; glowy satin finish
What I Don't: Contains fragrance
I love Rhode's TikTok-famous lip treatments so much that I'm seriously eyeing the matching phone case holder, just like everyone else. Created for plump, pillowy-soft lips, Hailey Bieber's signature lip product leaves lips glossy while softening and smoothing dry lips and locking in moisture. I like it best as a gloss, boosting shine for anything I add underneath. And if you want a makeup pro's opinion, makeup artist Jonet Williamson, who has a self-described "lip balm obsession," is all about the salted caramel version.
What I Love: Social media-famous; doubles as an overnight lip mask; comes in unscented and scented options
What I Don't: Some users report that the texture can turn gritty over time
No trip to France is complete without grabbing a fresh jar of Nuxe Rêve de Miel Ultra Nourishing Lip Balm from the French pharmacy. Formulated with honey, shea butter, and plant oils, this balm’s thick texture delivers long-lasting moisture and protection. Due to its rich consistency, most people swear by it as an overnight mask, but I also love using it during the day whenever my lips are chapped and in need of intense, all-day hydration.
What I Love: A little goes a long way; works great as an overnight mask; uses honey and shea butter to hydrate and soothe
What I Don't: Some find it too thick for daytime use
When I see "butter" in a lip product, I expect something thick and heavy, but this formula is anything but. It has a subtle cherry scent, a barely-there tint, and a powerful blend of hydrators, protective antioxidants, and anti-inflammatory ingredients. "Unlike other balms, which can feel great when applying but need frequent reapplication, this product becomes more effective the longer you use it. I like to apply it, wait a few minutes, and top it with Vaseline to lock in all the moisture," says Associate Social Media Director Lucia Tonelli.
What I Love: Subtle cherry scent; works well with the brand's Sweet Cherry Polishing Lip Scrub
What I Don't: You may find yourself reapplying more frequently than with thicker formulas
Colorless and, therefore, universally flattering, Prada's simple and chic lip balm was developed to deliver a natural finish (a rare find in the glossy world of lip balms!), but my favorite thing about it is that it's refillable, so I can keep this luxe staple in my collection indefinitely. (Looking at you, eco-conscious luxury shoppers!) I recommend layering it over a water-based lip serum if your lips feel dehydrated. Otherwise, its blend of emollients and occlusives forms a protective barrier to lock in the moisture already in your lips.
Pros: Refillable; "clear" shade is universally flattering, comes in a handful of tinted shades
Cons: Strong fragrance; devoid of humectants to draw in moisture
Augustinus Bader is an expert at mixing innovation with luxury; I picked up the brand's products because they feel amazing before I even realized what great things they can do for my skin. The Lip Balm was formulated with the brand's proprietary formula, TFC8, to dramatically improve moisture retention and speed up cell renewal, helping my lips appear plump, smooth, supple, and youthful. Plus, it’s built on a foundation of essential lip-care ingredients that hydrate, protect, and repair in a silky, colorless, non-glossy format.
What I Love: Classic, easy-to-use stick format; uses peptides to stimulate collagen production and TFC8, the brand's highly coveted proprietary formula
What I Don't: No tinted options; devoid of humectants to draw in moisture
Another favorite of Williamson's is ILIA's Lip Wrap, which provides "long-lasting hydration without feeling greasy, like a lip mask that you can wear all day," she says. With its glossy finish, it’s the perfect blend of a balm and a gloss. The formula boasts hyaluronic acid (which seals in moisture from the air) and prickly pear oil (which moisturizes and protects the skin barrier for long-term hydration). Bonus: It comes in a convenient tube, sparing you from having to dip your fingers into a pot.
What I Love: Glossy finish; refreshing cold tip applicator; texture isn't sticky
Cons: Not ideal for those who prefer a matte look or dislike the feel of lip gloss
La Mer needs no introduction—the iconic luxury skin-care brand is synonymous with its proprietary Miracle Broth™, a scientific ingredient blend designed to boost your skin's natural renewal process for a more youthful glow over time. Naturally, this cult-favorite ingredient is a star player in the brand's luxe lip balm, alongside petrolatum for a protective moisture barrier, humectants to hydrate, and antioxidants to nourish. The balm's velvety texture and subtle minty scent make it the ultimate indulgence guaranteed to level up your lip-care routine.
What I Love: Uses the brand's proprietary Miracle Broth™ formula; works well under lipstick; refreshing mint scent
What I Don't: Vaseline offers similar protection and hydration for a fraction of the cost
What to Look For in a Lip Balm
- Hydration
"Think of lip balm as your lips' bodyguard. Lip balm protects the lips from the climate and the sun. It helps to moisturize, soften, and soothe the lips from dryness and chapping," says celebrity facialist and aesthetic nurse Natalie Aguilar, who counts a quality lip balm among her top three daily must-have beauty products. Plus, lip balm can add a touch of beautiful, healthy shine.
Protecting your lips with a balm—alongside drinking enough water—helps prevent water loss, saving you from dryness and dehydration before they start.
- Ingredients
If you're looking for a lip balm that'll shield your lips, try to find an occlusive moisturizer that creates a physical, water-resistant barrier. "Traditional lip balms often contain ingredients like beeswax, carnauba wax, lanolin, or petrolatum,” board-certified dermatologist Shereene Idriss, M.D. FAAD, previously told Marie Claire. If you're looking for something that'll sink in? Try shea butter or jojoba oil. “I like to use non-traditional lip balms that melt into your lips for longer-lasting hydration," she adds.
- Purpose
If you want a lip balm for lipstick prep, Williamson has a tip: "Lip balm isn't really a base for lipstick, but it does help to prep the lip and should be blotted away before lipstick application," she says. "Having lip balm on under a matte or long-wear lipstick can affect how it wears and how long it truly lasts, so blotting is important." Five minutes of prep for hours of even color? So worth it.
What Causes Dry, Chapped Lips?
Dry lips aren't a winter-only issue. You can place blame on the weather, licking your lips, or the fact that you forgot your precious water bottle (yes, I've bought into the Stanley Quencher hype).
"We often forget that the sun, wind, and heaters can cause dry, chapped lips. But I mostly notice that my clients have drier and less plump lips when they're not drinking as much water or fluids as they should be," Aguilar adds. "It's important to gently remind ourselves that lips need a little extra TLC to stay smooth and hydrated."
Dr. Idriss explains that topical skincare products like retinoids or Accutane can also be culprits, but your tongue is the biggest cause of dry lips. "By licking your lips, moisture is drawn out, causing them to dry faster. If you want hydrated, nourished lips, this is one habit you should try to break," she shares.
How Often to Apply Lip Balm
Aguilar says that lip balm should be applied regularly. "I like to apply my lip balm at least every one to two hours," she notes. "Or, for dry or cracked lips, every time you swipe up to unlock your phone, swipe on some lip balm, too!"
Liz adds that if you're prepping your lips for makeup, you should opt for a silky, waxy balm instead of a glossy formula: "This way, it won't interfere with the lip products you apply afterward."
Meet The Experts
Renée Loiz is a top celebrity makeup artist and beauty expert with over 20 years in the industry. Renée is best known for her work with celebrities including Quinta Brunson, Cynthia Erivo, Kirby Howell-Baptiste, Sherry Cola, Adele, Chelsea Peretti, Uzo Aduba, Danai Gurira, Thuso Mbedu, and Jaylon Barron.
When she’s not creating press-worthy red carpet and editorial looks for famous faces, Renee can be found working with renowned brands such as NARS, Beauty Blender, Charlotte Tilbury, Chanel, Sephora, Target, BuzzFeed, Adidas, and Warner Brothers. She is also known as the founder of Color May Vary—the ultimate guide to the best black-owned brands for beauty enthusiasts.
In 2005, Jonet began her journey in beauty working as a makeup artist for M.A.C. Cosmetics. With a willingness to learn and an eye for perfection Jonet moved to New York City in 2014 determined to further her artistry and career. Since then, her work has been featured in commercial campaigns (Dolce & Gabanna, Levis, Shea Moisture), editorials (Essence, L'Officiel), and tv & film productions (CBS, MTV, TNT).
Drawing influence from the art of painting her style is a fusion of hyper real skin, modern beauty elements, and abstract expressionism. Jonet Williamson also works closely with brands on content creation (Revlon, Shiseido, L'Oreal, Beauty Counter) and product development.
Los Angeles based licensed aesthetician and dermatological nurse Natalie Aguilar works with many celebrities to keep them looking camera-ready. As the founder of N4 Skincare, Natalie brings 19 years of experience to her practice. She spent years training and learning from the best, where she mastered highly sensitive and technical treatments. Combining her medical knowledge with skincare, she also serves as a global educator for others in the skincare industry.
Dr. Shereene Idriss is a leading board-certified dermatologist on a mission to demystify the world of skincare and cosmetic procedures. Over years of posting myth busting videos to social media from her bed, she's become known as the #PillowtalkDerm, amassing a global community of 3M+ Nerds.
