The 10 Best Lip Balms That Actually Work (Ranked)
When it comes to keeping lips smooth, hydrated, and protected, not all lip balms are created equal. From affordable drugstore finds to luxury splurges, we’ve ranked the lip balm best brand options available on the market. If you’ve ever wondered which lip balm is best for dry lips, this guide covers everything you need — from clean beauty picks to Korean favorites and dermatologist-approved formulas.
1. Burt’s Bees Beeswax Lip Balm – The Natural Classic
Why it’s number one: Burt’s Bees is often considered the best clean lip balm because it’s made with natural beeswax, vitamin E, and peppermint oil. It locks in moisture while giving a refreshing tingle.
Benefits:
100% natural formula
Affordable and widely available
Protects against dryness and chapping
Best for: Anyone looking for a clean, everyday balm that works year-round.
2. Blistex Medicated Lip Balm – Best for Healing Cracked Lips
Why it’s popular: A trusted name in drugstores, Blistex is a best affordable lip option that doubles as treatment. With SPF 15 and medicated ingredients, it soothes irritation fast.
Benefits:
SPF protection
Helps heal cracked, painful lips
Lightweight and easy to apply
Best for: Those asking which lip balm is best for dry lips in winter.
3. Nivea Lip Care – The Everyday Favorite
Why it’s loved: Nivea is an iconic brand in skincare, and their lip balms deliver long-lasting moisture at a budget-friendly price. It’s one of the best drugstore lip balm choices worldwid
Benefits:
Rich hydration for daily use
Smooth, non-sticky texture
Great price point
Best for: Daily wear, especially if you want a balance between affordability and quality.
4. EOS Lip Balm – The Fun and Stylish Choice
Why it stands out: EOS (Evolution of Smooth) changed the lip balm game with its round packaging and fun flavors. Beyond the looks, it’s hydrating and dermatologist-tested.
Benefits:
Infused with natural oils and shea butter
Hypoallergenic and gluten-free
Wide variety of flavors
Best for: Teens, trendsetters, or anyone who wants hydration with style.
5. Aquaphor Lip Repair – Dermatologist Recommended
Why experts love it: Aquaphor is more than a balm — it’s a healing ointment. Known as a go-to for dermatologists, it repairs extremely dry or sensitive lips.
Benefits:
Fragrance- and preservative-free
Clinically proven to relieve dryness
Suitable for sensitive skin
Best for: People who want a no-nonsense solution to dry, cracked lips.
6. Laneige Lip Sleeping Mask – The Overnight Savior
Why it’s unique: Laneige, a Korean beauty powerhouse, created one of the best Korean tinted lip balm and treatments. Their sleeping mask doubles as a balm, leaving lips plump and soft overnight.
Benefits:
Infused with vitamin C and antioxidants
Luxurious texture
Subtle tint options
Best for: Nighttime repair and those who love K-beauty skincare.
7. Dior Addict Lip Glow – The Luxury Splurge
Why it’s worth it: Dior’s Lip Glow is the ultimate luxury pick. It hydrates while giving a custom tint based on your natural lip tone, making it both skincare and makeup in one.
Benefits:
Color-enhancing formula
Hydration with a glossy finish
Prestigious packaging
Best for: Beauty lovers seeking a designer best lip balm that doubles as a tint.
8. Clinique Chubby Stick – The Multitasker
Why it’s versatile: Clinique’s Chubby Stick blends hydration with sheer color, making it perfect for those who want hydration with a pop of pigment.
Benefits:
Allergy-tested and fragrance-free
Buildable color payoff
Smooth, hydrating formula
Best for: Professionals or minimalists who want 2-in-1 hydration and color.
9. Julep It’s Balm – The Under-the-Radar Pick
Why it deserves attention: Julep may not be as mainstream, but its balms are infused with natural oils and pigments, offering hydration with a touch of color.
Benefits:
Full-coverage tint
Enriched with sunflower butter
Smooth application
Best for: Makeup lovers searching for a hidden gem.
10. e.l.f. Ride or Die Lip Balm – Budget-Friendly and Vegan
Why it’s on the list: e.l.f. delivers quality at unbeatable prices. Their vegan lip balm is ultra-hydrating with shea butter and jojoba oil. It’s one of the best affordable lip options on the market.
Benefits:
100% vegan and cruelty-free
Very affordable
Thick, glossy finish
Best for: Shoppers who want hydration without breaking the bank.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re looking for the best drugstore lip balm like Blistex or Nivea, a best clean lip balm like Burt’s Bees, or a luxury treat like Dior, the right choice depends on your needs. If your main concern is which lip balm is best for dry lips, Aquaphor and Blistex lead the way. For beauty lovers, Laneige and Dior add that extra touch of style and care.
Pro tip: Keep more than one lip balm an everyday affordable pick plus a treatment balm so your lips stay healthy in every season.
