If there’s one tiny beauty hero everyone should keep within reach, it’s a lip balm. Our desert-meets-A/C lifestyle can leave your lips dry as sand without warning. Ever stepped out of an air-conditioned Dubai mall into a hot breeze and felt that instant tightness on your lips? Exactly. That’s where a trusty balm comes in. What does a lip balm do, really? Simply put, it creates a protective, moisturizing layer on your lips – essential since lips don’t produce their own oils to combat dryness. In other words, lip balms are used to lock in hydration and provide chapped lip relief when your smile’s in distress. We’ve rounded up 20 of the best lip balms out there (from global favorites and dermatologist picks to indie gems) that deliver serious hydration, sun protection, and relief for dry lips.
Nivea Labello 24H Melt-In Moisture Lip Balm Original
AED/SAR 11; Shop here
Remember the little blue Labello your mom gave you on a windy day? That iconic stick (known as Nivea Original Care in some stores) is still a go-to for many and one of the best lip balms in the UAE for good reason. It’s straightforward and effective– a hydrating lip balm that goes on silky, with no fuss or strong scent. The texture is smooth and waxy (so it won’t melt in your pocket during a UAE summer), and it leaves a slight sheen. Labello keeps lips moisturized for hours; in fact, the brand boasts up to 12 hours of hydration, sealing in moisture so your lips stay soft and supple. It’s the kind of everyday lip balm for dry lips you toss in your bag and reapply without thinking, because it just works. No wonder so many people here consider it the default answer to “Which lip balm is best in the UAE?” It’s practically everywhere, and it reliably does its job.
Burt’s Bees Beeswax Lip Balm
AED/SAR 55; Shop here
Maybe you’re after something a bit more natural and tingly. Enter Burt’s Bees Beeswax Lip Balm, the global favorite with that cheery yellow tube. Swipe it on and you get a comforting coat of beeswax and coconut oil, plus a subtle peppermint tingle. The texture starts firm (especially in cool weather) but softens with your body heat, gliding on to leave a matte, non-greasy finish. Packed with beeswax, vitamin E, and a touch of peppermint oil to soothe and refresh, its formula is famous for being naturally nourishing. The scent is a mild mint; you’ll feel a tiny zing that wakes up your senses (and assures you it’s working). This balm is brilliant for everyday hydration, keeping lips soft all day long thanks to those oils and antioxidants. If you’ve ever wondered why lip balm is used in the first place, one try of Burt’s and you’ll get it – it leaves your lips feeling comfortably moisturized, not waxy.
Carmex Classic Lip Balm
AED/SAR 9; Shop here
Of course, not all great balms are sweet and minty– some bring a medicated punch. Carmex Classic Lip Balm is that little pot or tube with the yellow cap that many of us reach for when lips are really chapped. This one’s a bit of a legend for chapped lip relief: it contains menthol and camphor, which give a cooling, tingling sensation and help heal cracked skin. The texture is slick and balm-ish (it comes in a tiny jar or squeeze tube), and yes, it smells medicinal– a bit like vapor rub for your lips– but many find that oddly comforting when their lips are in pain. Carmex creates a thick protective layer that instantly soothes the burning feeling of chapped lips. Within minutes, flakes feel softer. It’s the kind of heavy-duty lip balm for dry lips that you might slather on before bed to wake up with a smoother pout. What makes it one of the best lip balms in so many kits is that it doesn’t just sit there– it actively works to repair, thanks to its analgesic ingredients. It’s the unsung hero during flu season or on a ski trip to Lebanon’s mountains, and it answers that FAQ, “Does it matter what lip balm you use?”– in this case, yes, because a formula like Carmex can do what a candy-scented gloss can’t, by healing instead of just masking dryness.
Vaseline Lip Therapy
AED/SAR 14; Shop here
Now, sometimes the simplest answer is the best. Case in point: plain old Vaseline. Your tatay’s secret for everything from squeaky hinges to skincare is also one of the best lip balms for dry lips you can find. A dab of Vaseline (petroleum jelly) on the lips at night and you’ll see why. The texture is thick, jelly-like, and forms a glossy layer that locks in moisture like nothing else. It has no real scent (maybe a neutral clean smell) and no flavor– it’s purely functional. But boy, is it effective: Vaseline works by sealing in your lips’ natural hydration and any moisture you apply, creating a long-lasting barrier against dry air. Dermatologists often recommend it for sensitive or allergy-prone folks because it’s just a simple occlusive with no irritants. If your lips are cracking or even bleeding, globbing on Vaseline can provide instant relief by cushioning those cracks and preventing further moisture loss. It gives your lips a bit of shine (the glazed lip look was basically born out of Vaseline). Some versions come in cute tiny tins with cocoa butter or rose oil, but at its core, Vaseline is the OG lip balm. It’s affordable and accessible everywhere, and it answers “why lip balm is used” in the most basic way: to protect the lips when they can’t protect themselves.
Aquaphor Healing Ointment (Lip Repair)
AED/SAR 34; Shop here
Think of it as Vaseline’s über-talented cousin. This is the tube you’ll find in every dermatologist’s bag of tricks. Aquaphor uses petrolatum (like Vaseline) as a base but adds panthenol and glycerin to boost its healing power. The result is a balm that not only seals in moisture but also actively soothes and nourishes the skin. It’s fragrance-free and colorless; the texture is a semi-opaque ointment that absorbs a bit faster than pure petrolatum. If your lips are really dry or cracked, Aquaphor is a lifesaver– it effectively relieves dryness and calms down inflammation by holding in your natural moisture. Many people apply a thick layer overnight (a technique dubbed “lip slugging” that went viral last year) and wake up to plumper, smoother lips. It’s also great for daytime if you don’t want shine. Dermatologists recommend this kind of formula because it’s plain and gentle: no fragrance, no flavor, just protection. In fact, if you’re asking “What do dermatologists recommend for lip balm?”, Aquaphor is often at the top of the list. It’s especially good for those who feel like every other lip product irritates them. And for the GCC folks, it stands up to the elements, whether you’re facing the dry winter winds or the blasting summer sun (you can layer it over an SPF lip balm for a one-two punch). Aquaphor proves that sometimes the best lip balm to use is a straightforward, clinically-backed ointment that puts healing first.
QV Lip Balm
AED/SAR 44; Shop here
Straight from Australia’s sensitive skincare experts, QV is a humble tube that packs a lot of comfort for dry, sensitive lips. What’s special about QV is that it’s formulated without common irritants – no fragrance, no color, no lanolin– so it’s super gentle. It has a light, creamy balm texture that squeezes out and smooths on easily (with a slight satiny finish, not too glossy). This is one of the best lip balms with SPF you’ll find: it boasts SPF 30 sun protection built right in, which is a big deal in our region where that sun is fierce. Many people forget their lips can sunburn, but QV has you covered on that front, literally. It uses ingredients like lanolin (hypoallergenic grade) and paraffin to soften and shield the lips, so it not only moisturizes but also prevents future moisture loss. If you have dry lips that are also easily irritated or you’re prone to eczema, this is a top pick as it soothes and protects without any burning or tingling. For us in the GCC, a lip balm like this with high SPF is practically a summer essential; think of it as the best lip balm for dry lips at the beach or on a road trip through the dunes.
La Roche-Posay Cicaplast Levres
AED/SAR 52; Shop here
This balm is part of LRP’s famous Cicaplast line for intensive skin repair. It comes in a petite squeeze tube and has a rich, balmy texture– thicker than a lotion but not quite as greasy as an ointment. It’s enriched with panthenol (Vitamin B5) and nourishing lipids, which work together to actively repair the lip skin barrier. The moment you put it on, it feels soothing– any stinging or raw sensation calms down, and that relief lasts. There’s no strong scent (it’s fragrance-free) and no taste, which is great if you’re sensitive. This is the kind of product a dermatologist would recommend for lip balm when someone has cheilitis or peeling due to Accutane or extreme weather. It’s hypoallergenic and tested on sensitive skin, so it’s very unlikely to cause a reaction. What’s impressive is how it provides instant and lasting hydration for extra dry lips, and helps them actually heal instead of just temporarily masking the dryness. It contains shea butter for moisture and thermal spring water to soothe, making your lips feel comfortable and “cared for” rather than just slicked over. After a day or two of regular use, you’ll notice your lips are less flaky and more resilient. If you’ve been stuck in an endless cycle of balm reapplication with little improvement (we’ve all been there, slathering something on every 20 minutes to no avail), switching to Cicaplast could be a game-changer.
Himalaya Herbals Lip Balm
AED/SAR 8; Shop here
A beloved pick across South Asia and the Middle East. This clear balm comes in a small squeeze tube that’s perfect for pocket or purse. From the moment you open it, you get a mild herbal scent (some say it’s slightly carrot-like, thanks to the carrot seed oil). The texture is lightweight and non-sticky, more oily than waxy, which means it spreads easily and gives a nice subtle shine. Himalaya’s formula is built on time-tested Ayurvedic ingredients: carrot seed oil (rich in Vitamin A) which is known to help protect lips from sun damage, coconut oil to deeply moisturize, castor oil to condition, and wheat germ oil which brings vitamin E. It’s especially great for lips that get dry and dark; there’s a local belief that the carrot oil can even help prevent lip darkening (a concern if you’re often in the sun). While I can’t promise it’ll lighten your lip tone, I can say it leaves them feeling soft and nourished. It’s an excellent everyday hydrating lip balm, ideal if you prefer herbal remedies over synthetic. And if you’re the DIY type who’s wondered about how to make moisturizing lip balm with kitchen ingredients, Himalaya offers that same vibe without the mess: it’s like a homemade recipe in a ready tube, blending cold-pressed oils and natural waxes.
Lucas’ Papaw Ointment
AED/SAR 83; Shop here
Our friends in Australia have been using this bright red tube for over 100 years, and now it’s a global secret weapon for dry lips. It’s technically an all-purpose ointment (for cuts, burns, insect bites, you name it), but as a lip balm it’s fantastic. The formula is simple yet unique: pharmaceutical-grade petroleum jelly plus fresh fermented papaya extract. The papaya (pawpaw) is the star– it’s believed to have antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, which means it can help heal angry, cracked lips or even those pesky corners that split. The texture of Lucas’ Papaw is very similar to Vaseline, but a touch softer; it spreads easily and leaves a nice protective layer that isn’t overly shiny. There’s a slight fruity scent if you really sniff it, but basically it’s nearly odorless and tasteless. When your lips are absolutely wrecked, Papaw Ointment swoops in to save the day. It seals in moisture just as well as any petrolatum balm (creating that barrier against further drying, but the papaya enzymes gently exfoliate away flakes and help reduce redness. It’s also free of added fragrance or colors, so it’s usually safe for sensitive skin. Many makeup artists swear by this product not just for prepping models’ lips, but also for adding a natural gloss on top of lipstick or taming eyebrows. In the context of best lip balms, this one is a bit of a dark horse because it’s not marketed as a lip product, yet outperforms many that are. One use and you’ll see why Australians (and now everyone in the know) have a tube in every bag: it heals like a balm should.
eos Natural Lip Balm
AED/SAR 19; Shop here
You probably recognize the eos Smooth Sphere, those cute pastel orbs that took over Instagram feeds and nightstands some years ago. Popping open a sphere of eos is oddly satisfying; inside is a dome of solid balm that you glide directly onto your lips. The novelty shape aside, eos is known for its great flavors and natural formula. Think flavors like Sweet Mint, Strawberry Sorbet, Vanilla Bean– basically a candy shop for your lips. The scent and taste are pleasant but not overpowering. The balm itself is 95% organic and 100% natural, packed with nourishing ingredients like shea butter, jojoba oil, and antioxidant-rich vitamin E. It’s also petrolatum-free and paraben-free, which appeals to the clean beauty crowd. Texture-wise, eos balms are lightweight and smooth; they’re not waxy to the point of tugging, but they also aren’t ultra-greasy. They leave a subtle sheen and a very comfortable, moisturized feel. While they’re not the longest-lasting, they do keep lips soft and they definitely encourage continuous use because they smell/taste so good. For everyday mild dryness, eos is a lovely hydrating lip balm that turns the mundane act of moisturizing into a bit of self-care flair. In short, eos makes lip care less of a chore and more of an experience, and it earns its spot among the best lip balms by proving that effective lip care can come with a side of whimsy and style.
Maybelline Baby Lips
AED; SAR 16; Shop here
If you were a teen in the early 2010s, chances are you had at least one tube of Baby Lips rolling around in your backpack. This was more than just a balm, it was many people’s first foray into makeup, since it combined moisture with a sheer tint. The packaging with its bold lettering was instantly recognizable, and the flavors/shades had cute names like Cherry Me (sheer red) and Pink Punch (bright pink). Applying Baby Lips is a joy: it glides on with a silky, thin texture and leaves your lips feeling drenched in moisture but not sticky. The best part is the subtle pop of color; it’s enough to make your lips look alive and a bit glossy, but it’s totally low-maintenance (you don’t even need a mirror to put it on). In terms of effectiveness, Baby Lips was marketed with some big claims: 8-hour hydration and visibly renewed lips in one week. While I’d take those claims with a grain of salt (8 hours without reapplying is a stretch), it does contain ingredients like shea butter, aloe, and some had SPF 20, which definitely help with hydration and protection. It’s lighter than heavy-duty balms, so for extremely chapped lips you’d need something thicker, but for everyday dryness and a quick splash of color, it’s perfect. Baby Lips also tackles the FAQ “How do I choose a lip balm shade?”– the answer here is you don’t have to stress; each tint is sheer, so your natural lip color shines through with a hint of whatever shade you picked.
Glossier Balm Dotcom
AED/SAR 65; Shop here
Fast forward to the Instagram era, and the lip balm that took the crown is Glossier Balm Dotcom. This product became a status symbol of the minimalist, dewy makeup look. So what’s the hype? Balm Dotcom is a thick, salve-like balm that comes in a cute paint tube-style package with a screw cap. It originally launched in flavors/scents like Rose (soft pink tint), Mint, Cherry (red tint), Birthday (shimmery vanilla, like cake frosting) and more. The texture is dense– more akin to a skin salve than a waxy stick– which means it really stays on your lips and seals in moisture. It’s definitely on the richer side, so a little goes a long way. Once applied, it gives a low sheen (except the shimmer version which gives a tiny sparkle) and it really protects against the elements. Glossier formulated it with petrolatum, castor oil, beeswax and lanolin (in the original version) alongside antioxidants like vitamin E and fruit extracts to actually nourish the skin. This combo creates a unique texture and barrier that help prevent dryness while leaving lips feeling supple. That longevity also makes it great as an overnight balm (many use the Mint or Original one before bed). It also doubles as a multi-use salve: tap it on cheekbones for a dewy highlight or use it to tame flyaways. Using Balm Dotcom can answer the question, “Does it matter what lip balm you use?” in a cultural sense – because using this one became a bit of a lifestyle statement. But beyond the hype, it genuinely is an excellent hydrating lip balm. If you’ve been stuck using flimsy balms that disappear in an hour, you’ll notice a big difference with Glossier: your lips stay moisturized and protected, breaking that overuse cycle where you feel the need to constantly reapply.
Summer Fridays Lip Butter Balm
AED/SAR 123; Shop here
Picture this: a buttery, silky balm that squeezes out and instantly makes your lips look like you applied the juiciest gloss, but without any stickiness. That’s Summer Fridays. It comes in a metal tube (rose gold colored, very Insta-friendly) and the formulas often have a tint or tone– like Vanilla (clear with a warm natural finish), Beige, Brown Sugar (sheer chocolate tint), or even a limited edition pop of color. The scent is usually delicious; the original is a yummy vanilla, like fresh-baked cookies. When you smooth it on, the texture is plush and rich– thicker than a standard balm, closer to a lip mask, yet it manages to feel weightless once on. It’s not dripping off your lips or making a mess; it just coats them in a comforting layer. Summer Fridays formulated this as a hybrid between a balm and a gloss, and they nailed it. It uses shea butter and murumuru butter to deeply nourish and repair lips, so while you’re flaunting that glassy shine, your lips are actually healing and softening underneath. There are also vegan waxes in it that help it stay put and protect the lip surface. The effect? Softer, smoother lips that feel pampered. As a hydrating lip balm, it’s top-tier, and as a cosmetic, it’s absolutely gorgeous. If you asked me “Which type of lip balm is best?”, for daytime glam I’d hand you Summer Fridays– it’s truly one of the best lip balms bridging the gap between a treatment and a gloss, making it a standout recommendation for those who want it all.
Rare Beauty With Gratitude Dewy Lip Balm
AED/SAR 137; Shop here
Selena Gomez’s Rare Beauty line emphasizes kindness (hence the shade names like Honor, Empathy, Support) and ease of use and this tinted lip balm embodies that philosophy. One swipe, and you get a dewy, hydrating flush of color that feels like a hug for your lips. The balm comes in a sleek twist-up tube; the design is understated and elegant, much like Selena’s own style. Now, the texture: it’s super creamy going on, almost like a lip butter, and it leaves a lovely sheen (not as shiny as a gloss, but definitely a dewy finish as the name promises). It’s not waxy, so it glides effortlessly– no tugging even on dry lips. Formulated with shea butter and a botanical blend of lotus, gardenia, and white waterlily, it wraps lips in weightless hydration that lasts while these plant-based ingredients nurture and cushion your lips. In plain speak, that means your lips feel soft and plump, and look a bit fuller and healthier. The colors are very forgiving and buildable; you can do one swipe for a hint or layer up for more payoff. If you’re pondering how to choose a good lip balm shade, Rare Beauty makes it easy: the shades are sheer and designed to flatter all skin tones, so you can pick based on what color you’re drawn to rather than stressing if it will “match.” For example, Praise is a warm coral that just adds a peachy warmth to your lips, and Support is a cool mauve that enhances your natural lip tone with a pinky-plum glow. As for scent/taste, Rare’s balm has a very slight vanilla scent, but it’s basically unflavored (no weird lipstick taste). Something I love is that this balm truly combines makeup and care: you get the polished look of a light lipstick, but with the comfort of a balm that actually hydrates.
Huda Beauty Silk Balm
AED/SAR 92; Shop here
Billed as a “hydrating and nourishing lip balm,” Silk Balm is essentially a lip treatment that looks like a gloss. It comes in a sleek tube with a doe-foot applicator, making it feel more like applying a luxe lip gloss than a chapstick. There’s zero stickiness and no tingling (unlike those spicy plumpers). Instead, Huda used something called hyaluronic filling spheres and a blend of soybean and licorice extract to gently plump and smooth the lips over time. So you get instant plump-looking lips from the shine, and a bit of actual plumping effect from the formula as it settles in. The formula is thin, comfortable, and stays put nicely for a balm/gloss hybrid. Essentially, it amplifies your natural lip color and glow. The hydration factor is strong with this one: it’s packed with hydrating actives, so even after the shine wears off, your lips feel softer and not at all dry or flaky. Huda herself said she uses it all day, and even on top of other lip colors– indeed, it layers beautifully over a matte lipstick to add comfort and shine. Culturally, this balm resonates because it merges that regional love for ultra-glamorous lips (glossy, pouty, ready for a close-up) with the practical need for hydration in our climate. It’s like wearing a shiny lip accessory that’s actually healing your lips at the same time. If you’re the type who asks, “Which type of lip balm is best?”, and your answer is “one that makes me look fabulous,” Silk Balm is calling your name. Plus, it was created by one of our own (Huda’s an Iraqi-American entrepreneur who built her beauty empire in Dubai), which adds a pinch of regional pride when we swipe it on. As a lip balm for dry lips, it does the job– no cracked lip can stand against its moisture– and as a lip gloss, it’s downright gorgeous. Talk about a win-win.
Fresh Sugar Lip Treatment SPF 15
AED/SAR 109; Shop here
This is the balm that beauty editors and celebrities have adored for years, and it’s often touted in “best lip balm” lists with good reason. First off, the packaging: a weighty metal tube with a screw-on cap (so it never accidentally comes off in your bag). It just feels luxe in your hand. The formula inside is a dream if you love a buttery texture. It’s so smooth and soft that on a hot day it might even lean a little melty (careful not to twist up too much!). When you glide it on your lips, it literally feels like it’s melting into the skin, coating every dry crack with nourishment. Key ingredients here include sugar (a natural humectant that attracts moisture), a blend of oils like meadowfoam, black currant, and grapeseed, plus vitamins C and E for antioxidant protection. And let’s not forget the nice dose of SPF 15 from added sunscreens, which is clutch for daytime use. The effect is immediate relief and a lasting moisturized feel. Most of the Sugar Lip Treatments are tinted, except the original. The tints are sheer but buildable: there’s Rose (a soft rosy pink that’s a fan favorite), Honey (a warm nude), Tulip (a brighter pink), Berry (a plum tint), and more. They give a beautiful flush of color along with the hydration, so you can replace your lipstick with these on casual days. The finish is slightly glossy at first but settles to a satiny sheen. One of the most beloved aspects is the scent: a lemon-sugar scent that’s absolutely delicious– fresh and sweet but not cloying. It makes application feel like a treat (some say it reminds them of lemon cake). Now, how effective is it? Fresh actually advertises 24-hour hydration and while I can’t personally go a whole day without reapplying something, I will say this balm stays on and keeps lips moisturized for a solid several hours, even through some sipping and talking. It’s the kind of balm you put on and don’t have to think about again for a while– no constant urge to reapply because your lips stay comfortably moist. If you have peeling, this balm will soften it to the point where you can gently buff it away (and actually Fresh makes a matching sugar lip scrub, but that’s another story). It answers “Which type of lip balm is best?” in yet another way: perhaps one with sunscreen, tint, and a luxe feel is best for your daily routine. Particularly for dry climates, having that occlusive yet buttery formula plus SPF makes Fresh Sugar a top pick.
Dior Addict Lip Glow
AED/SAR 180; Shop here
Dior Lip Glow is a Color Reviver balm, meaning it reacts to your lip’s pH level to bloom into a custom pink that’s perfectly suited to you. It sounds like magic, and honestly, it feels that way when you use it. The balm bullet is encased in a pink transparent case with the Dior logo– very elegant and iconic. When you apply it, it feels silky, lightweight, and hydrating (thanks to mango butter, among other ingredients) and gives your lips a subtle glossy sheen. Within a minute, you’ll notice your lip color slightly intensifying – a soft rosy tint appears, as if you just bit your lips or came in from the cold. That tint will be unique to you– on some, it’s more pink, on others, a bit more coral– and it adjusts throughout the day. This pH trickery is not just a gimmick; it actually ensures the shade flatters your skin tone automatically. So for those asking, “How do I choose a lip balm shade?”, Dior Lip Glow cheekily answers: don’t choose, let the balm choose you. Beyond the cool color tech, it’s loaded with nourishing ingredients. Infused with wild mango butter and shea butter, it provides deep moisture and protects lips from dryness. The finish is a perfect balance and the hydration is long-lasting; Dior claims 24 hours, and while you’ll probably lick it off or eat by then, it truly keeps lips supple for hours on end. It’s also great as a primer under other lip products, but most people love it on its own because it gives that effortless French-girl look. Another plus: it has a faint vanilla-mint scent, very subtle and pleasant, nothing overpowering. Using Dior Lip Glow feels fancy– there’s no denying the rush of whipping out a Dior product for a touch-up– but it’s not just status, it really performs. If you have chronically dry lips but still want a bit of color daily, Lip Glow is a savior because it merges balm + tint so well. Also, it doesn’t emphasize flakiness; in fact, the balm is smoothing (those oils and waxes do their job). A quick exfoliation and a coat of Lip Glow can make even parched lips look presentable. It’s one of the best lip balms to gift someone if you want to spoil them (or yourself, of course).
Laneige Lip Sleeping Mask
AED/SAR 120; Shop here
This is the ultimate overnight lip treatment, and it has achieved holy grail status worldwide. Packed in a cute pink jar (for the classic Berry flavor; they also have sweet flavors like Vanilla, Gummy Bear, Mango), the Lip Sleeping Mask is a thick, rich balm that you apply before bed. It comes with a tiny spatula so you can scoop without using your fingers. The texture is rich and balmy, with a slight stickiness that actually is intentional: it clings to your lips through the night, acting as a blanket of moisture. The key ingredients are a “Berry Mix Complex” (antioxidant-rich extracts from raspberry, strawberry, cranberry, blueberry, goji berry) plus hyaluronic acid and glycerin that draw in and lock moisture. Laneige also uses a patented “Moisture Wrap” technology– a blend of moisture-rich beta-glucan and minerals– that forms a film over the lips to prevent water loss while you sleep. All the science aside, what you need to know is this: you put it on, go to sleep, and wake up with softer, smoother, plumper lips. It gently exfoliates too– any dry flakes are so hydrated by morning that you can just buff them away with a damp cloth easily. The smell is divine; the Berry one has a sweet raspberry scent that makes it tempting to lick (resist the urge, let it do its work!). For those who ask “What is the best lip balm for dry lips?”, many experts will hand you this jar. It’s that effective. Even in the extreme dryness of an air-conditioned bedroom or during fasting days when dehydration is an issue, this mask will prevent your lips from cracking. You can also use a thin layer in the daytime as a regular balm but its true power is revealed when used overnight. Truly, this is among the best lip balms you can own, specifically targeting dry lips and nourishing them back to life.
Augustinus Bader The Lip Balm
AED/SAR 178; Shop here
Now, if you’re in the mood to spoil your lips (and honestly, why not?), Augustinus Bader The Lip Balm is luxury skincare bottled in minimalist navy-blue packaging. Developed by the German biomedical scientist behind the cult-favorite Rich Cream, this balm isn’t just a pretty face—it’s backed by serious science. Formulated with the brand’s patented TFC8® complex (a blend of amino acids, vitamins, and peptides), it works on a cellular level to support skin renewal. Translation? It doesn’t just sit on your lips looking shiny—it actually helps repair them from within. The texture is smooth, balmy, and just thick enough to coat without feeling heavy or waxy. There’s no tint, no overpowering scent, no frills. Just an ultra-clean, nourishing formula that instantly softens and protects. It contains a luxe cocktail of conditioning ingredients like shea butter, candelilla wax, and vitamin E, which give lips a silky, plumped-up finish that lasts. This is the balm you reach for when your lips are feeling tired, dull, or irritated—like after a long flight, a windy beach day, or too much matte lipstick. It’s especially great under lip color too, since it absorbs well without pilling or slipping. If you’re the kind of person who wants hydration, repair, and a sense of indulgence in one elegant bullet, this one checks every box. Sure, it’s a splurge—but so is a facial, and this is basically that… for your lips. Call it the quiet luxury of the best lip balms.
This is the product behind all those #GlazedLips selfies on TikTok. It comes in a sleek grey tube with a doe-foot applicator, and as soon as you slick it on, your lips look like glass – the glow is real! The formula feels luxuriously thick and cushiony, almost like a glossy honey (but it’s not tacky). They have a few flavors: Watermelon Slice, Salted Caramel, and Unscented (and limited editions like Peptide Lip Tints). The flavored ones smell delicious– grown-up versions of the Lip Smackers we loved, which gives a little nostalgic joy. Now, the “Peptide” part of the name isn’t just for show. This treatment contains nourishing and plumping ingredients including shea butter, babassu oil, cupuaçu butter, and peptides. These work together to deeply moisturize and even help your lips look fuller by supporting collagen production over time. After all, peptides are amino acids that signal your skin to firm up; in a lip balm, they help keep the delicate lip skin resilient and smooth. I’d compare the formula to a high-end lip gloss meets intense night balm: it leaves your lips with a glossy lacquer finish but simultaneously works to soften and repair. I’ve been using the Watermelon flavor and I can attest– my lips stay hydrated for hours, even after the shine fades. Importantly, it’s not one of those balms that you apply and then need to reapply constantly; it truly treats the lips, so over a few days you notice less chapping and more smoothness. It’s been a savior against both dry winter air and aggressive indoor A/C– acting as a shield that retains moisture and keeps the harshness out. This answers “Does it matter what lip balm you use?” one more time: yes– a balm with high-quality ingredients can actually improve your lip condition, not just momentarily relieve it. If you’re into clean girl aesthetics or just want a reliable heavy-hitter balm that merges glamour and repair, Rhode’s Peptide Lip Treatment is a must-try. Slick it on during a long flight, before the gym (it won’t melt off and looks natural), or over your favorite lip pencil for that 90s supermodel shine. However you use it, you’ll likely join the chorus saying this is one of the best lip balms to come out in recent times.
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