Dry skin doesn't feel good. But there is nothing more painful and unsightly than sore, chapped lips. Chapped lips are very common, especially on cold winter days. Sometimes, they persist no matter how much we try to heal them. If you're struggling with desert lips and are looking for a solution, we've rounded up the 20 best lip balms for you, based on customer reviews. From medicinal, drugstore, to fancy, luxurious lip treatments, they're all here. Wondering which ones are worth trying? Read on to find out!
| PRODUCTS | |
| Burt's Bees 100% Natural Healing Moisturizing Lip Balm | |
| Neosporin Lip Health | |
| Blistex | |
| Aquaphor - immediate restoration of lip relief | |
| Jack Black Intensive Care Lip Balm SPF 25 | |
| Laneige lip mask | |
| Palmer's | |
| Kiehl'S Lip Balm | |
| Glossy balm Dotcom | |
| Rosebud Perfume Co. Smith's Mint Pink Lip Balm |
Wash your face regularly (and thoroughly)
It's no surprise that minimizing pores starts with good skin care, and one of the easiest ways to minimize pores is to always cleanse them thoroughly. However, according to a GH study, 12% of women do not use facial cleansers regularly. “When dirt clogs pores, they expand and appear larger. So it's important to always cleanse your face with a gentle cleanser, especially before bed, to remove excess dirt and oil, explains Margarita Lolis, MD, a dermatologist in Hackensack, New Jersey.
“To cover all areas of the face, including the hairline and around the nose, where dirt can accumulate and clog pores, apply cleanser from the middle of the face up, then down the hairline and around the perimeter just below the chin,” says senior beauty lab chemist Good Housekeeping Institute Sabine Wiesemann. Using a facial cleansing brush has shown in GH Beauty Lab testing that it can help provide an even deeper clean.
In addition to daily cleansing, always use clean makeup brushes (clean them at least once a week) and never touch your face with your fingers. Your complexion (and your makeup brushes!) will thank you.
Tips for applying balm
The form of release determines how the balm is applied: directly to the lips, with a brush or with your fingertips. Here are some recommendations:
- It is better to choose a brush for balm from artificial bristles; it will evenly distribute the product;
- if the product is applied with your fingers, they must be clean;
- There are no strict rules for application time: if your lips feel dry, you can safely apply;
- lipstick and balm tend to be eaten away, so they need to be reapplied periodically;
- if your lips are peeling, one balm will not be enough; it will work more effectively on lips exfoliated with a special or homemade scrub.
Exfoliate your skin twice a week
Unlike cleansing alone, exfoliation helps remove and cleanse dead skin cells that can clog or block pores. "Exfoliation can be achieved in several ways, both physical (such as facial scrubs or a cleansing brush) and chemical (products with gentle acids that promote cell regeneration)," says Joyce Imajierobo-Ip, MD, a Dedham dermatologist. , Massachusetts, and consultant for HydroPeptide.
Look for gentle cleansers that contain low concentrations of salicylic (0.5-1%), lactic or glycolic acid (2.5-5%), which will stimulate cell turnover and keep pores clear.” You can also try using a prescription topical retinoid, which can increase cell turnover, thereby exfoliating pores and making them appear smaller.
A big post about the love of lips, or my 10 balms
Hi all!
This is my debut post, so please don’t judge too harshly))). On the eve of frost, I decided to clean up my makeup bag and show off my favorites and outsiders. In autumn and winter, lip care becomes the main thing for me. Without false modesty, I will say that my lips are well-groomed, soft, without any problems. But you just have to relax... and immediately peeling, cracks, and sticking in the corners of the lips appear (this is the worst nightmare). That's why I always use hygienic lipsticks. I am terribly absent-minded and can run out of the house in the cold without having time to apply lip balm and forgetting to put it in my cosmetic bag. I found a solution: I put lip balm in each pocket of my outerwear and in all my bags, so that I am always “armed.” I recommend it to those who suffer from multiple sclerosis. On the eve of frost (if there is any), I decided to clean up my makeup bag and show off my favorites and outsiders. So, my 10 balms: 1. Lime Rocket Cocoa Butter Lip Balm from Badger 2. Vanilla Madagascar Lip Balm from Badger 3. Doudoune from Erborian 4. Aquamilk from Lancaster 5. Filler for restoring contour and correcting wrinkles around the lips Xtend your youth from Dr . Brandt 6. Aqualia Thermal from Vichy 7. Pivoine Sublime from L`Occitane 8. Framboise “Raspberry” from Yves Rocher 9. Love Nature Lip Balm from Oriflame 10. Lucas' Papaw Ointment
Lip balm Lime Rocket Cocoa Butter Lip Balm from Badger
My main love and the best of the best are organic lip balms from Badger, or the famous “badgers”.
I've been crazy about them for 2 years now, from the moment I met them. For me, they are ideal - natural composition (USDA Organic certificate), delicious aromas, excellent softening properties and a reasonable price. My latest purchase is the Lime Rocket Cocoa Butter Lip Balm from Badger. The main difference between the line and Classic Lip Balms, which I used almost all of, is certified cocoa butter in the composition. And, although the name says lime, the balm smells incredibly delicious of cocoa and from time to time you want to eat it (but it’s not tasty). The stick is pale yellow in color, applies well and sits quite tightly on the lips, but not sticky. It lasts for a long time, does not dry out or tighten. After it, your lips are soft, just perfect. The balm may not look luxurious, but it’s quite cute, and most importantly, it really works. For a stick weighing 7 grams in an organic store in Moscow, I paid only 330 rubles. You can find it in online stores for 2-3 dollars, although the volume may be less. Ingredients:
*Olea Europaea (extra virgin olive) oil, *theobroma cacao (fair trade certified cocoa) butter, *cera alba (beeswax), *ricinus communis (castor) oil, essential oils of *citrus aurantifolia (lime), *litsea cubeba (litsea), *citrus tangerina (tangerine), *aloe barbadensis (aloe) extract, and co2 extracts of *rosmarinus officinalis (rosemary), *rosa canina (rosehip), *hippophae rhamnoides (seabuckthorn).
*=Certified organic ingredients Testing period – 2 months Price: from 300 rub.
Rating: 5+ Vanilla Madagascar Lip Balm by Badger
Next to the big “brother” is my other favorite, which I almost smeared all over, the classic Badger lip balm.
It weighs from 4.5 grams versus 7, but its price is about 150 rubles. The main difference is the absence of cocoa butter and a characteristic odor, but they smell pleasantly of vanilla. It works exactly the same, although it is less greasy for my taste. I had a whole set with scents of grapefruit, lavender, vanilla and something else. Ingredients:
*Olea Europaea (Organic Extra Virgin Olive) Fruit Oil, *Cera Alba (Organic Beeswax), *Ricinus Communis (Organic Castor) Seed Oil, CO2 Extract of *Vanilla Planifolia (Organic Vanilla), *Rosmarinus Officinalis (Organic Rosemary) Leaf Extract, *Rosa Canina (Organic Rosehip) Fruit Extract, *Hippophae Rhamnoides (Organic Seabuckthorn) Fruit Extract, *Aloe Barbadensis (Organic Aloe) Leaf Extract.
* = Certified Organic Testing period - about a year Price: from 150 rub. Rating: 5+
Erborian Doudoune Revitalizing Lip Balm
My second love, which I discovered a few months ago, is a balm from the French-Korean brand Erborian with the funny name “Dudong”. Its main and only drawback is the beautiful and inconvenient frosted glass jar, which you need to climb into with your finger or a cream stick (it wasn’t included). It’s inconvenient to get my lips in there, but I’m trying. More of an option for home or work than for travel. But in other respects it is wonderful. The balm in the jar is thick and somewhat reminiscent of beeswax, but quickly melts on the lips and is slightly shiny. It softens lips for a long time and is perfect as a base for lipstick. Almost odorless. It contains soybean oil, which has antioxidant properties, lavender extract, vitamin E, allantoin, which heals cracks, and petroleum jelly (is this good or bad? Its reputation is in question).
By the way, a small life hack: “Dudun” can also be applied as a cuticle balm.
Testing period - 4 months Price: 1450 rub. Rating: 5-
Intensely moisturizing lip balm Aquamilk from Lancaster
A completely unexpected favorite that accidentally ended up in my makeup bag.
Lancaster for me is, first of all, tanning products, and I have never paid attention to the care of this brand. Unlike the first heroes, this is not a solid balm, but a kind of “milk” that gently envelops the lips. An interesting and light texture that can be applied to the lips at any time from a sharp spout, like an eye cream. I haven’t tried it in cold weather, but it’s perfect for windy weather. By the way, even while drinking it does not wash off from the lips. Aquamilk balm is enriched with coconut, palm and shea oils, which promote rapid skin restoration. Testing period is about six months Price: 1000 rub. Rating: 5
Filler for restoring contour and correcting wrinkles around the lips Xtend your youth from Dr. Brandt
I cannot call this product a full-fledged lip balm; first of all, it is a filler.
The white cream from the “king of Botox” lies tightly on the lips and makes them smooth, filling in small wrinkles and cracks. I think it's a great option as a base for "complex" lipsticks that like to highlight imperfections. Interestingly, when applied to the lips, the filler is slightly cooling (or so it seems to me), but does not visually add volume to the lips (for my taste). As a balm, I liked using it at night: it makes my lips soft and slightly plump. Their disadvantages: if you actively move your lips, it may shift somewhat unsightly, but not critical. Overall a nice filler, especially if you need to fill out wrinkles and find a base for lipstick. I didn’t find the ingredients on the packaging, so I’ll provide brief information from the brand. “The patented proprietary formulas MaxiLip, VolluLip and Snap-8 stimulate the synthesis of collagen and hyaluronic acid in the skin, ensuring its constant hydration at the right level.” The filler also contains sunflower oil, jojoba oil, candelilla wax and an antioxidant complex consisting of vitamin E, green and white tea, and grape seed extract. The testing period is about 3 months. Price: 2500 rub. before discount Rating: 4-
Lip balm Aqualia Thermal from Vichy
For a long time I could not find a “common language” with this balm, but after a dozen times I finally became friends with it.
The white stick has a light, subtle scent (I don't like it) and lays on the lips in a light layer. The balm is completely non-greasy, which doesn’t suit me, so I apply it thickly, in several layers. Despite this, it tightens my lips a little. At the same time, it copes with its task: if I apply it at night, in the morning my lips are soft and without flaking. In general, the balm is a mystery to me, but I will use it. Among the active ingredients of Aqualia Thermal, it is worth noting Vichy Spa thermal water, glycerin, shea butter, asiatic acid (Centella asiatica) and vitamin E. Does not contain parabens, hypoallergenic. Testing period – 1.5 months Price: from 500 rub.
Rating: 4- Now I’ll tell you about my outsiders, who unpleasantly surprised me.
Lip balm “Peony” Pivoine Sublime from L`Occitane
By all characteristics, this balm should have become my favorite.
A metal screw-on case, like a luxury one, a pleasant floral aroma and a soft pink, translucent shade of Rose Nude. But love didn't happen. After application to the lips, the balm turns into a watery, sweet-smelling “film”. It gradually tightens, emphasizing peeling that didn’t seem to exist. I immediately have a strong desire to wipe it off and apply another, richer balm. Considering that there were a lot of positive reviews about it, I can suggest that it was not suitable for me personally. Moreover, its composition is excellent: peony extract, shea butter, hyaluronic acid, vitamins A, C, E, as well as SPF25. Testing period - 2 months Price: 1350 rub. Rating: 0
Lip balm Framboise “Raspberry” from Yves Rocher
Almost the twin brother of “Peony” and also from France, only in a budget plastic case and with a low price.
The hot pink stick has a strong fruity scent, has a translucent pink hue and goes on lightly. At first it seems to soften the lips, but I don’t feel comfortable feeling it on my lips. But over time he begins to misbehave and tightens his lips a little. I don’t like it, but judging by other reviews, some people liked it as a summer option. There is no composition on the packaging; the official website states that “consisting of more than 80% ingredients of natural origin, the balm is enriched with natural oils and waxes for delicate care and comfort of your lips.” Testing period - 2 months Price: 129 rub. Rating: 3
Love Nature Lip Balm by Oriflame
This “miracle” ended up in my cosmetic bag by accident and is unlikely to live in it for long.
It smells incredibly delicious of cherry, of course, with a chemical undertone. This is where the advantages of the balm with a slight red tint ended for me, although there are many positive reviews about it on the Internet. I wrote above that I don’t like miniature jars, and the balm is also quite greasy, dense and not so easy to apply to the lips. And if in the spring it was possible to wear it calmly on the lips, then in the late autumn it could not cope even with a half-hour walk. It dried my lips out enough that they started to peel. The situation was saved by Aqualia Thermal from Vichy, which I applied thickly at night. I strongly do not recommend it, only for aromatherapy purposes. Active ingredients: cherry extract (Prunus Avium). Testing period - 2 weeks in spring and a week in autumn Price: 250 rub. Rating: 2
Lucas' Papaw Ointment
Who doesn't know the iconic Lucas' Papaw Ointment for lips and everything else?
It arrived to me from distant Australia (at a good price) in an envelope with a cute sly smile on the stamp. And imagine my surprise when, having opened it and immediately smeared myself, I was left with the feeling of my old friend - Vaseline. This thing, which in ancient times cost 10 rubles. I loved the jar: it gave an amazing wet shine on the lips that drove the boys crazy. Actually, Lucas' Papaw has the same effect. Absolutely. Although, maybe I’m not familiar enough with the exotic papaya, from which the balm has been produced for over 100 years according to an unchanged recipe. But, alas, I cannot share the enthusiastic reviews. Although overall the balm works great, instantly moisturizes, softens and protects lips, especially in cold weather. Also great for moisturizing elbows and cuticles. The active substance is natural papain, obtained from papaya fruits, has healing properties (the balm will help with sunburn). Among the advantages are a light aroma and a convenient 25 g tube, which you can always put in your cosmetic bag. But the feeling of some kind of “unnaturalness” does not leave me throughout the entire period of use, especially since it contains Vaseline. And how much Vaseline is there, and how much papaya, I think this is a company secret) Will I buy it again? Difficult question, I think I'll give it another chance. Some day. Ingredients:
pharmaceutical grade petroleum jelly and wax;
carica papaya; gum balsam peru; potassium sorbate. The testing period is almost a year.
Price: from 500 rub. Rating: 3 Thank you for reading my “brick”, I hope you found it interesting and some of the presented balms interested you. What are your favorite winter lip balms?
Increase
Moisturize your skin twice a day every day
Source here and below: Pexels
You already know what can happen to your skin if you stop moisturizing it (dryness, flaking, irritation). Enlarged pores are another problem. "It's important to use a high-quality, non-comedogenic facial moisturizer twice daily," says Dr. Imajierobo-Ip. Regularity is key in this case, so you should apply the product morning and evening. "If you leave your skin without hydration, it will react by producing excessive oil, which can clog your pores," he says.
Types of lip cosmetics
- Lipstick is the most common product that is found in every woman’s cosmetic bag. Its main task is to visually emphasize the female mouth and create an interesting image. The protective function of lipstick is secondary. Long-lasting products completely dry out your lips.
- Hygienic lipstick does not contain coloring pigment. It is designed to create a protective barrier against frost and cold wind and soften the crust that has already appeared on the lips. This is where the capabilities of most “hygienics” end.
- The functionality of lip balms is much wider. These products have healing and caring properties. Each of them contains active substances that nourish, moisturize, protect, strengthen and renew the skin. Colored balms simultaneously act as lip gloss.
Apply sunscreen every day
Daily use of a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher is an essential part of any skin care regimen for healthy skin and anti-aging, including preventing enlarged pores. “Ultraviolet radiation not only causes sun damage like wrinkles and dark spots, but it also breaks down collagen and elastin, causing pores to widen,” says Dr. Solis.
“The best way to prevent enlarged pores is to protect yourself from the sun.” Some sunscreens can make skin look shiny or oily by emphasizing pores, so choose an oil-free or lightweight gel formula with a matte finish.
How to choose the optimal shade
Products usually have dim, universal colors, but when choosing, it is still important to take into account your complexion type:
- Options with a blue undertone are suitable for a cool type. Species that go into raspberry or cherry tones would be appropriate. It is recommended to exclude coral and orange.
- Warm ones will reveal themselves better if you use balms with yellow, golden and other bright dyes.
- Anything goes with neutral, so any cosmetics will look harmonious.
To determine your category, just look at the inside of your wrist. If the veins there are blue, then the color type is cold, green - warm. And if it is difficult to determine this, it is neutral.
Buy the right lip balm. Then it will not only give your lips charm, but also help preserve their beauty for many years.
Choose a mask that suits your skin type
They're not just a good way to relax, face masks can also tighten your pores over time. “Home treatments such as facials and peels work with consistent long-term use,” says Dr. Imajierobo-Ip. Incorporate once or twice a week into your beauty routine. If you have large pores and oily skin, masks containing ingredients like clay or charcoal will work best for you.
For other skin types, "multitasking" by applying these formulas to the T-zone (forehead, nose and chin), where pores tend to be most visible, is best.
Maybelline Baby Lips. Intense Care.
- Solid lip balm, unscented. I don’t really like the feeling of either paraffin or wax on my lips. Minus.
- The balm is not very noticeable on the lips, but nevertheless feels greasy. But I give it a plus.
- It has good absorption and the effect is felt quickly. Plus.
- You need to use it constantly, otherwise the effect that came on so quickly will stop and dry lips will return. The biggest disadvantage.
- Packaged in a lipstick stick, it is easy to twist and roll. Consumption is moderate. Plus.
Total: 3/2
Conclusion: I was a little disappointed with this lip balm. I expected more, so after 2-3 days of testing it went into the drawer.
Consider laser treatment
To permanently reduce the size of your pores, see a dermatologist who can recommend professional laser treatments. “A series of treatments using non-ablative lasers builds collagen, resulting in smoother skin and smaller pores,” explains Dr. Lolis.
Another option is Fraxel laser treatment, which resurfaces the skin and reduces the appearance of enlarged pores, explains Ellie Summers, a medical esthetician at Tribeca MedSpa in New York City. “Fraxel technology uses heat to create controlled microscopic wounds in the skin to stimulate the body to produce new collagen, resulting in a smoother texture and clearer pores.”
