For such a tiny tube, lip balm can cause some oversized reactions. Recall the last time you dug into your bag or pocket looking for some chapped-lip relief, only to realize that your favorite balm had vanished. Agony.
When we solicited testers to help us uncover the best balms out there, many on staff clamored to volunteer, confirming what we already knew very well: People are passionate about lip balm.
Since 2020, we’ve tested more than 80 lip balms—the greasy and goopy, the ill-tasting, the smelly, and the fiendishly expensive. In our most recent round of testing, six favorites surfaced: a simple, exceptional everyday lip balm for under $5, a high-gloss moisturizer, a near-perfect splurge, a soothing medicated option, an invisible sun protector, and cool tinted balm in five flattering shades. Each one is unique, from their level of hydration to their finish and fragrance. The common denominator: Each one makes our lips feel amazing.
