BEAUTY

7 Much-Loved Lip Balms That Actually Make A Huge Difference

Dry lips don’t stand a chance

For such an essential beauty item, lip balm is one we don’t nearly rave about enough. A true multi-purpose hero, the right one can tackle cracked lips, treat dry cuticles and act as a dewy highlighter in a pinch.

There’s a lot to consider when searching for your supple lip sidekick, and packaging and smell aside, it’s the ingredients that will determine whether you’re in for long-lasting hydration or only temporary relief. 

And after having tried and tested many pots and tubes, we’ve come to the conclusion that these are the best lip balms worth knowing. Choose one to rely on forever, or select a handbag balm, desk drawer balm and bedside table balm so you’re never caught without.

lanolips 101
(Credit: $14.95 at mecca.com.au)

Lanolips 101 Ointment,  $14.95 at mecca.com.au

Lanolin is a great ingredient for dry skin healing. The emollient retains moisture and provides a lightweight protective barrier, without the need of constant re-application. This tube contains 100% of the stuff making it a solid favourite – and we love to support an Aussie brand too!

laneige lip mask
(Credit: $28 at sephora.com.au)

Laneige Lip Sleeping Mask, $28 at sephora.com.au

Available in four fruity variations, this overnight sensation has racked up hundreds of rave reviews, every word of them true. It’s brilliant as a before bed treatment (simply slather it on and wake up to softness) but can be toted around to use as you please, too.

biossance lip balm
(Credit: $30 at sephora.com.au)

Biossance Rose Vegan Lip Balm, $30 at sephora.com.au 

With a subtle scent resembling fresh roses (no nose qualms here, we promise) this gooey-in-a-good-way pot provides an incredibly long-lasting hit of moisture. A little goes a long way so be warned if you’re planning on layering with colour, and the plumping effect is also generous.

la mer lip balm
(Credit: $100 at mecca.com.au)

La Mer The Lip Balm, $100 at mecca.com.au 

With a high price tag comes high expectations, but for some, this luxe lip saviour has provided the only solution to their lip problems. Formulated with the brand’s Miracle Broth, it’s equipped to repair even the most chapped, cracked and uncomfortable lips.

burt's bees lip balm
(Credit: $6.99 at priceline.com.au)

Burt’s Bees Beeswax Lip Balm, $6.99 at priceline.com.au

In 2019, more than one of Burt’s Bees Lip Balms were sold per minute. That’s approximately 840,000 satisfied customers. They’re also 100% natural and come in 13 different variations.

smith's rosebud salve
(Credit: $17.95 at saison.com.au)

Smith’s Rosebud Salve, $14.95 at adorebeauty.com.au

This 100-year-old salve offers unbeatable relief for chapped skin and parched lips. It’s ideal for those who love a thick balm texture, and if you’re a fan of Turkish delight, you’re in luck scent-wise too.

lucas' papaw
(Credit: $5.99 at priceline.com.au)

Lucas’ Papaw Ointment, $5.99 at priceline.com.au

There aren’t many Australians who haven’t had this iconic red tube in their pocket at some point in time. Papaya has antibacterial and antimicrobial properties that help to heal skin while the ointment protects and provides hydration. Stock up if you’re ever moving overseas, as it can be hard to find elsewhere.

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