The most humble beauty product you’ll find in your vanity - lip balms! Yes, it’s the most loved product, and one we can’t do without (because chapped lips aren't a good look on anyone.) If you shot me with the ‘what’s in my work bag’ question, a lip balm would definitely top my list of things. But, why are lip balms so important, you ask? Our lips are more sensitive than other parts of the body and tend to dry out faster. Unlike our skin, they don’t produce any natural oils making it absolutely necessary to use a lip balm to keep the chapped pout at bay. Having dry lips can be attributed to multiple reasons like dry weather, sun damage, frequent lip licking and dehydration among other causes. Lip balms help lock in moisture and protect your pout from everyday wear and tear. With sun damage being one of the major causes of chapped lips, lip balms with SPF have started to gain more traction. Safe to say, the function of this universally-loved beauty product goes beyond giving you a glossy, plump pout. My personal favourite to keep my lips well moisturised throughout the day is the Dot & Key Gloss Boss Tinted Lip Balm with SPF 30. It’s tinted, it offers UV protection, feels buttery, and leaves my pout feeling super-soft. What’s not to love? While I may have found the perfect lip balm that meets my needs and offers UV protection, you’re probably still out there googling the ‘best lip balm for dry lips’, which has led you here (hello, you!) So to help you find the perfect lip balm, we spoke to leading dermatologist, Dr Aanchal Panth, Make up artist Renuka Pillai, and Nykaa’s beauty editor Gianella Mascarenhas, to get them to spill the deets on the lip balms they swear by. Keep reading (and maybe share this with a friend in need) to check out their recommendations.
Dr Aanchal Panth, Dermatologist
“Licking of lips is the most common cause for dry lips. To keep your lips healthy and moisturised, use a lip balm that has emollient and occlusive properties, as these will help lock in moisture for a longer period of time.”
Dr Aanchal Panth recommends: Minimalist SPF 30 Lip Balm
What’s in it?
- Broad spectrum SPF 30 contains effective filters that will help protect your lips from UVA/UVB rays.
- Ceramides which are proven to help repair damaged skin barrier and aids in healing dry lips.
- Hyaluronic acid offers intense multi-level moisturisation that helps make lips look and feel soft and plump.
Renuka Pillai, Makeup Artist
“I’ve been using this lip balm for years! Personally, I prefer a clear balm over a tinted formulation. This product feels very comfortable on the lips and I love that it also works as a lip protectant. I tell my clients that it’s important to opt for a lip balm with SPF to help avoid pigmentation on the lips. This lip balm will always have a spot in my daily handbag.”
Renuka Pillai recommends: Bobbi Brown Lip Balm SPF 15
What’s in it?
- Avocado, wheat germ, and olive oil helps create a protective barrier on the lips.
- Petrolatum rehydrates and provides comfort instantly.
- Beeswax and aloe vera helps make lips feel smooth and soothed.
Gianella Mascarenhas, Nykaa Beauty Editor
“This Dior lip balm is my go-to for every day and every season. I love this product because of its one of a kind formulation, it adapts to the pH of the skin tone and leaves behind a tint that is unique to you. Apart from that, it’s super hydrating and keeps my lips moisturised for hours on end. Also, its natural tint and beautiful glow works perfectly with my minimal makeup looks.”
Gianella Mascarenhas recommends: DIOR Addict Lip Glow
What’s in it?
- Cherry oil helps reconstruct and strengthen the natural barrier, providing instant comfort.
- Shea butter aids in smoothening and softening the lips’ skin.
- Sunflower and rice waxes help solidify the bullet further and fuses with the skin to release the right dose of care.
