Dry, chapped lips are one of the most common skincare issues faced by people of all ages — especially during harsh winters or in dry climates. If you’ve ever struggled with flaky, painful, or cracked lips, you know how uncomfortable it can be. Thankfully, lip balms have come a long way in 2025, offering not only intense hydration but also natural ingredients, sun protection, and even a touch of tint for everyday wear.
In this ultimate guide, we’ll explore the best lip balms for dry lips in 2025, what ingredients to look for, how to choose one based on your skin type, and expert tips to keep your lips soft, smooth, and healthy all year long.
Understanding Why Lips Get Dry and Chapped
Before diving into the list of the best lip balms, it’s essential to understand why your lips get dry. Lips don’t have oil glands like the rest of your skin, which makes them more prone to dryness. Environmental factors such as wind, cold weather, sun exposure, and dehydration can strip away moisture.
Other common causes include:
- Licking your lips frequently
- Using harsh toothpaste or lip products
- Vitamin deficiencies (especially Vitamin B and iron)
- Allergic reactions to cosmetic ingredients
Knowing the cause helps you choose the best lip balm for your specific needs and prevents further damage.
What to Look for in a Lip Balm in 2025
Choosing a lip balm is not as simple as grabbing one off the shelf anymore — formulations have evolved to target specific problems and preferences. Here’s what you should look for in 2025:
1. Hydrating Ingredients
Look for natural humectants that attract and retain moisture, such as:
- Hyaluronic Acid – deeply hydrates and plumps lips
- Shea Butter – locks in moisture and repairs cracks
- Coconut Oil – provides smoothness and nourishment
- Beeswax – forms a protective barrier to prevent moisture loss
2. SPF Protection
The sun can damage your lips, causing pigmentation and premature aging. Choose lip balms with SPF 15 or higher to protect your lips from UV rays.
3. Clean, Non-Toxic Formulas
In 2025, clean beauty is more than a trend—it’s a standard. Opt for paraben-free, cruelty-free, and vegan lip balms to keep your lips safe from harmful chemicals.
4. Long-Lasting Formula
Choose a lip balm that offers lasting hydration without feeling sticky or greasy. A good formula should stay put for hours, even through meals or drinks.
Top 10 Best Lip Balms for Dry Lips in 2025
Here’s our curated list of the best lip balms for dry lips in 2025, chosen for their effectiveness, clean ingredients, and overall user satisfaction.
1. Laneige Lip Glowy Balm
Best for: Overnight deep hydration
This cult favorite continues to dominate in 2025 with its rich formula containing shea butter and murumuru butter. It nourishes deeply while you sleep, leaving lips soft and supple.
Pros:
- Long-lasting moisture
- Subtle fragrance options
- Dermatologist-tested
Cons:
- Slightly higher price point
2. Burt’s Bees Moisturizing Lip Balm
Best for: Natural, everyday use
A timeless classic enriched with beeswax, coconut oil, and vitamin E. This balm delivers instant relief for dry, flaky lips while staying 100% natural.
Pros:
- All-natural ingredients
- Widely available
- Budget-friendly
Cons:
- No SPF protection
3. Aquaphor Lip Repair
Best for: Severely chapped lips
Aquaphor remains a dermatologist’s go-to recommendation. Its advanced healing formula soothes irritation and creates a protective barrier that locks in moisture.
Pros:
- Fragrance-free
- Clinically proven relief
- Ideal for sensitive skin
Cons:
- Slightly thick textur
4. Vaseline Lip Therapy Rosy Lips
Best for: Tinted hydration
If you want hydration with a hint of color, this classic formula combines Vaseline’s signature moisture-locking power with a soft pink tint.
Pros:
- Adds natural shine
- Affordable
- Great for daily wear
Cons:
- May feel slightly greasy
5. Fresh Sugar Advanced Therapy Lip Balm
Best for: Anti-aging lip care
Packed with sugar, sea fennel, and hyaluronic filling spheres, this luxurious balm smooths fine lines and plumps lips naturally.
Pros:
- Anti-aging benefits
- Long-lasting hydration
- SPF 15 protection
Cons:
- Expensive
6. Drunk Elephant Lippe Balm
Best for: Sensitive and dry lips
This clean, fragrance-free balm contains avocado oil, mongongo nut oil, and peptides to nourish and strengthen delicate lip skin.
Pros:
- Fragrance-free
- Ideal for sensitive skin
- Rich, buttery texture
Cons:
- Smaller size
7. Carmex Classic Medicated Lip Balm
Best for: Healing cracked lips
A proven formula that uses camphor and menthol for cooling relief. Carmex is a lifesaver for lips damaged by harsh weather or frequent dryness.
Pros:
- Heals and protects
- Affordable
- Available in tube or jar
Cons:
- Medicinal scent not for everyone
8. Nivea Moisture Care Lip Balm
Best for: Everyday moisture boost
With shea butter and natural oils, this balm provides intense hydration and smoothness without any stickiness.
Pros:
- Lightweight formula
- Easy to apply
- Great for layering under lipstick
Cons:
- No SPF protection
9. Eos Natural Organic Lip Balm
Best for: Eco-conscious users
With 100% natural ingredients like jojoba oil, coconut oil, and beeswax, Eos remains a favorite for its hydrating, eco-friendly formula and iconic packaging.
Pros:
- Certified organic
- Variety of flavors
- Sustainable packaging
Cons:
- Needs reapplication after meals
10. Kiehl’s Buttermask for Lips
Best for: Overnight lip therapy
A rich overnight treatment infused with coconut oil and wild mango butter to restore softness and smoothness while you sleep.
Pros:
- Intense repair formula
- Ideal for winter
- Leaves lips supple and glossy
Cons:
- Best used overnight only
Best Lip Balm for Dry Lips: Expert Recommendations by Skin Type
Choosing the right lip balm depends on your skin type and daily habits. Here’s how to make the best choice:
For Sensitive Skin
Opt for fragrance-free and hypoallergenic options such as Aquaphor Lip Repair or Drunk Elephant Lippe Balm.
For Severely Dry or Cracked Lips
Use rich, occlusive balms like Laneige Lip Glowy Balm or Kiehl’s Buttermask for Lips that seal in moisture overnight.
For Oily Skin
Choose lightweight, non-greasy formulas like Nivea Moisture Care Lip Balm that provide hydration without heaviness.
For Daily Use
Natural and affordable options like Burt’s Bees or Eos Organic Lip Balm work perfectly for maintaining lip health.
DIY Natural Lip Balm for Dry Lips
If you prefer a homemade solution, you can easily make a natural lip balm using safe ingredients:
Ingredients:
- 1 tbsp beeswax pellets
- 1 tbsp coconut oil
- 1 tbsp shea butter
- 3–4 drops essential oil (lavender or peppermint)
Directions:
- Melt the beeswax, coconut oil, and shea butter in a double boiler.
- Remove from heat and add essential oil.
- Pour into a small lip balm container and let it cool.
- Use daily to keep your lips soft and moisturized.
This DIY lip balm is chemical-free and perfect for sensitive lips.
Tips to Prevent Dry and Chapped Lips
Even the best lip balm won’t help much if you don’t maintain good lip care habits. Here are a few expert-approved tips:
- Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day.
- Exfoliate weekly: Use a gentle sugar scrub to remove dead skin.
- Avoid licking your lips: It dries them out faster.
- Use a humidifier: Keep indoor air moist during winter.
- Always apply SPF lip balm: Especially when going outdoors.
Conclusion: Find the Best Lip Balm for Your Needs in 2025
Dry lips don’t have to be a constant struggle. With so many advanced formulations available in 2025, you can easily find the best lip balm for dry lips that suits your needs, preferences, and budget. Whether you prefer a clean, natural option like Burt’s Bees or a luxurious treatment like Laneige or Kiehl’s, the key is consistency and care.
Keep your lips soft, smooth, and healthy by following a proper lip care routine — and never forget to apply your lip balm before bed or stepping outside!
