Lip balm is more than just a beauty product—it’s a necessary part of skincare that protects and nourishes your lips, helping to maintain moisture and shield them from environmental damage.

The best lip balm in 2025 should offer hydration, protection, and healing for your lips. Look for balms with nourishing ingredients like shea butter, beeswax, and vitamin E. Balms with added SPF protection can also help safeguard your lips from sun damage. In this guide, we will explore the top choices, how to select the best one, and the benefits of using lip balm for long-term lip health.

What Is Lip Balm?

Lip balm is a skincare product specifically formulated to hydrate, protect, and nourish the lips. It comes in a variety of forms, including sticks, tubes, and jars, and typically contains a blend of moisturizing, soothing, and protective ingredients designed to keep lips soft and smooth.

Purpose of Lip Balm

The primary purpose of lip balm is to prevent moisture loss and protect the delicate skin on the lips from becoming dry, cracked, or irritated. Unlike the skin on other parts of the body, the skin on the lips is thin and lacks oil glands, making it particularly susceptible to dryness and environmental damage. Exposure to factors like cold weather, sun, wind, and pollution can quickly lead to chapped lips, which can be painful and unsightly. Lip balms act as a barrier to these harsh elements, providing hydration and creating a protective shield that locks in moisture.

Different Types of Lip Balms

Lip balms come in a wide variety of formulas to meet different needs. For example:

• Regular Lip Balms: These are the most common and are primarily used for moisturizing and protecting lips on a day-to-day basis.
• Medicated Lip Balms: Some lip balms contain active ingredients like hydrocortisone or camphor to treat specific conditions like cold sores, chapped lips, or allergic reactions.
• Lip Balms with SPF: These are essential for protecting the lips from sun damage. They contain sun-blocking agents like zinc oxide or titanium dioxide to provide broad-spectrum protection against UV rays.
• Tinted Lip Balms: These provide both color and hydration. They are a popular alternative to lipsticks, offering a more natural look with the added benefit of moisturizing.
• Organic Lip Balms: Made with natural and certified organic ingredients, these lip balms cater to those seeking chemical-free, eco-friendly products.

How Lip Balm Works

Lip balms work by forming a thin layer of moisture-retaining ingredients over the lips. This layer helps to prevent the lips from losing moisture to the environment while also soothing any irritation. The moisturizing agents in lip balms, such as oils and butters, help to hydrate the skin, while beeswax or other waxes provide a protective layer that locks in this moisture.

In addition, many lip balms contain healing ingredients, such as vitamin E or aloe vera, which help repair the skin on the lips if it has become cracked or chapped. When applied regularly, lip balm keeps the lips soft, smooth, and healthy.

The Importance of Lip Balm in Your Skincare Routine

Lips are one of the most exposed parts of your body, often subjected to environmental stressors like dry air, sun exposure, and wind. Because they don’t produce oil like the rest of your skin, they can easily become dry and cracked. Using a lip balm regularly is essential to keep your lips protected and healthy. In addition to preventing dryness, lip balm can also help prevent conditions like cold sores, sunburn, and the premature signs of aging, such as fine lines and wrinkles around the lips.

Whether you’re dealing with cold, windy weather or just need a daily boost of hydration, lip balm is an essential product to keep in your skincare arsenal. It’s a simple yet highly effective way to keep your lips in top condition, no matter the season.

Which Lip Balm Ingredients Should You Look?

Prioritize lip balms that include ingredients like shea butter, beeswax, vitamin E, and coconut oil. These ingredients are known for their hydrating, soothing, and healing properties, ensuring that your lips stay soft and protected. Avoid harmful additives like parabens and artificial fragrances.

Beeswax

Beeswax is one of the most commonly used ingredients in lip balms, and for good reason. It is a natural substance produced by honeybees and has been used for centuries in skincare products. Its main function in lip balm is to provide structure and protection to the balm while helping to lock in moisture.

Shea Butter

Shea butter is a rich, creamy fat extracted from the nuts of the shea tree. It is widely known for its deep moisturizing and skin-soothing properties, making it a popular ingredient in many lip balms.

Coconut Oil

Coconut oil has gained widespread popularity in recent years due to its many health and skincare benefits. When included in lip balms, it provides essential moisture and offers a lightweight alternative to heavier oils.

Vitamin E

Vitamin E is a powerful antioxidant commonly found in skincare products for its skin-repairing and anti-aging properties. It’s commonly used in lip balms for its ability to promote skin healing and prevent further damage.

Hyaluronic Acid

Hyaluronic acid is known for its incredible ability to retain moisture, making it an excellent ingredient for lip balms. It naturally occurs in the body and helps maintain skin hydration.

Sun Protection Factor (SPF)

In 2025, incorporating SPF into your lip care routine is crucial to prevent sun damage and premature aging. Lips are highly sensitive to UV rays, and without proper protection, they can burn, peel, or develop long-term damage.

As we move into 2025, choosing the right lip balm goes beyond just finding something that keeps your lips moisturized. With more awareness about the ingredients we put on our skin, it’s crucial to select lip balms that provide real benefits, like hydration, protection, and healing. Look for products containing beeswax, shea butter, coconut oil, vitamin E, hyaluronic acid, and SPF to keep your lips soft, smooth, and healthy.

How to Choose the Best Lip Balm for Your Skin Type?

Choosing the right lip balm depends on your skin type and specific needs. Is your skin dry and chapped, or do you just need something for daily hydration?

For dry skin, opt for thicker, more nourishing lip balms like those with shea butter. For sensitive skin, choose products that are fragrance-free and made with natural ingredients.

Lip Balms for Dry Lips

If you suffer from chronic dryness or chapped lips, look for a balm with rich ingredients like shea butter, beeswax, and cocoa butter. These ingredients are deeply moisturizing and create a long-lasting barrier against the elements.

Lip Balms for Sensitive Skin

For those with sensitive lips, avoid balms with added fragrances or dyes. Instead, choose hypoallergenic options made with natural oils like coconut or almond oil. These ingredients are gentle and safe for sensitive skin.

Lip Balms for Oily Skin

If you have oily skin, you may want a lip balm that is lighter in texture. Look for oil-free or gel-based balms that provide hydration without adding excess shine or greasiness.

What Are the Best Lip Balms for 2025?

When it comes to selecting the best lip balms in 2025, there’s no shortage of options. From tried-and-true classics to new innovations, the market offers a range of lip balms designed to meet different needs—from hydration and healing to sun protection and anti-aging benefits.

Burt’s Bees Beeswax Lip Balm

Burt’s Bees is a household name when it comes to lip care, and for good reason. Their beeswax lip balm is one of the best-selling products in the market. Made with natural ingredients, it provides long-lasting hydration and protection, making it a perfect everyday choice.

Laneige Lip Sleeping Mask

Laneige’s Lip Sleeping Mask is a luxury lip care product designed for overnight use. It offers intense hydration and repair, helping to restore moisture while you sleep.

EOS Organic Lip Balm

EOS (Evolution of Smooth) is known for its quirky packaging and high-quality, organic ingredients. Their lip balm is 95% organic and comes in a range of flavors, offering both hydration and a fun, eco-friendly experience.

Aquaphor Healing Ointment Lip Repair

Aquaphor is a trusted name in skin healing, and their Lip Repair ointment lives up to the brand’s reputation. It’s a go-to product for severely chapped or cracked lips, thanks to its ultra-moisturizing formula.

Kiehl’s Lip Balm #1

Kiehl’s Lip Balm #1 is a beloved classic that has been around for years. This balm is well-known for its high-quality formula and ability to protect lips from harsh weather conditions.

Fresh Sugar Lip Treatment SPF 15

Fresh is known for its luxurious skincare, and their Sugar Lip Treatment is no exception. This product not only hydrates and protects your lips but also offers a hint of color with its tinted versions.

Summary Table

Do Lip Balms Help with Chapped Lips or Just Provide Temporary Relief?

Lip balms not only offer temporary relief but can also help heal and prevent chapped lips by providing essential moisture and protection.

Lip balms do more than just soothe dry lips. When used regularly, they can help heal and prevent chapping by locking in moisture and protecting your lips from harsh weather.

Healing Properties of Lip Balms

Lip balms with ingredients like aloe vera and vitamin E can help speed up the healing process for chapped lips, restoring moisture and promoting skin regeneration.

Why Regular Use Is Important

Using lip balm daily, especially in dry or cold weather, can prevent lips from becoming dry and cracked in the first place. Regular use is key to maintaining healthy lips.

Is It Better to Use Organic or Regular Lip Balm?

With increasing interest in organic beauty products, many consumers are questioning whether organic lip balms are worth the extra cost.

Organic lip balms are often more beneficial for sensitive skin, as they are free from synthetic chemicals. However, regular lip balms can still be effective and affordable for everyday use.

Benefits of Organic Lip Balms

Organic lip balms are made with natural ingredients, ensuring they’re free from harmful chemicals like parabens and sulfates. They’re often gentler on the skin, making them a good choice for sensitive lips.

Comparing Costs and Quality

While organic lip balms may cost more, the high-quality ingredients they contain may justify the price. For those on a budget, regular lip balms with basic moisturizing ingredients can still provide effective relief.

How Can You Make Your Own Lip Balm at Home?

Materials Needed

1. Base Ingredients (adjust ratios as needed):
   • Beeswax (or plant-based wax like soy or candelilla wax): 1–2 teaspoons (~5–10g) Function: Adds structure and locks in moisture.
   • Carrier Oils (choose 1–2 types):
     • Coconut oil (solid in winter, liquid in summer): 2 teaspoons (~10g)
     • Sweet almond oil/olive oil/jojoba oil: 1 teaspoon (~5g) Function: Moisturizes and softens lips.
   • Shea butter/cocoa butter: 1 teaspoon (~5g) Function: Enhances hydration and creates a smooth texture.
2. Optional Additions:
   • Vitamin E oil: 1–2 drops (natural preservative, extends shelf life).
   • Essential oils (e.g., peppermint, lavender, citrus): 3–5 drops (ensure skin-safe and avoid certain oils if pregnant).
   • Natural colorants: A pinch of beetroot powder (pink) or cocoa powder (brown).
3. Tools:
   • Heatproof glass bowl or small saucepan
   • Stainless steel or silicone stirring utensil
   • Lip balm containers (tins or tubes)
   • Dropper or small funnel (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Sterilize Containers: Wash containers with hot soapy water and dry thoroughly.
2. Melt the Base:
   • Use a double boiler method:
     • Fill a pot with 2–3cm of water and bring to a simmer.
     • Place a heatproof bowl over the pot (ensure it doesn’t touch the water).
     • Add beeswax, carrier oils, and shea/cocoa butter to the bowl. Stir until fully melted (~5–10 minutes).
3. Add Extras:
   • Remove the bowl from heat.
   • Stir in vitamin E oil, essential oils, or colorants (if using). Mix well.
4. Pour into Containers:
   • Quickly pour the mixture into lip balm containers using a dropper or funnel.
   • Let cool completely (1–2 hours) until solid.
5. Label and Store:
   • Label containers with the date.
   • Store in a cool, dry place for up to 6 months.

Pro Tips

Adjust Consistency:

• For softer balm: Reduce beeswax by 0.5 tsp.
• For firmer balm: Add 0.5 tsp more beeswax.

Test for Allergies: Patch-test oils/essentials on your wrist first.

Customize: Experiment with flavors (e.g., vanilla extract) or shimmer (add mica powder).

Conclusion

Selecting the best lip balm comes down to understanding your skin type and needs. Whether you’re looking for intense hydration, sun protection, or organic ingredients, there’s a lip balm that’s perfect for you. And if you’re looking to customize a lip balm for your own brand, Zerun Cosmetic offers tailored lip balm manufacturing with your custom branding.Feel free to contact us today for a consultation on creating your perfect lip balm product.