Lip balms are no longer just simple products meant only to prevent dry lips. Years ago, when someone talked about the best lip balm, most people would instantly think of classics like Aquaphor or Chapstick—products mainly designed to seal in moisture and protect lips during cold winter months. In 2026, however, lip balm formulas have evolved into something far more exciting. Modern balms now combine hydration with beauty benefits, blurring the line between skincare and makeup. Many of them come in beautiful shades, glossy finishes, and nourishing formulas that go far beyond the traditional idea of what a lip balm should be.
From the soft mauve, chocolate, and rose-inspired tones of Rhode’s peptide lip tints to the cushiony, glossy finish of Summer Fridays’ lip butter balms, today’s lip products focus equally on hydration and appearance. Even though chapped lips are often associated with winter weather, dryness can occur at any time of year and throughout the day. According to board-certified dermatologist Dr. Azadeh Shirazi, lip balms are designed to nourish lips, prevent moisture loss, and protect the delicate lip barrier. A high-quality balm should also shield lips from environmental stressors like cold air, wind, dryness, and other irritants.
Vogue’s Guide to the Best Lip Balms
Below are some of the most loved lip balm formulas that deliver both comfort and style. These picks are known for leaving lips feeling soft, smooth, and hydrated while also offering beautiful finishes and subtle color.
Best Overall: Summer Fridays Lip Butter Balm
Why We Love It: Dermatologist Dr. Murphy-Rose recommends this glossy balm from Summer Fridays because it combines hydration with a luxurious finish. The formula contains nourishing ingredients such as shea butter and murumuru seed butter that deeply moisturize the lips. This 100% vegan balm has gained a large following thanks to its delicious flavors like vanilla, pink sugar, and brown sugar, along with its soft, modern tint.
Best Shades: Rhode Peptide Lip Tint
Why We Love It: Rhode’s peptide lip tints have become incredibly popular, partly thanks to Hailey Bieber’s influence. These balms combine skincare benefits with beautiful color. Dr. Shirazi notes that the formula provides immediate hydration while also helping smooth the lips over time, all without leaving a sticky feeling.
Best Exfoliating: EADEM Le Chouchou Lip Softening Balm
Why We Love It: EADEM’s balm works as both a lip treatment and a gentle exfoliator. The formula uses fruit enzymes to remove dry skin while delivering deep hydration. Makeup artist Lauren D’Amelio Ventre has praised the balm for creating a smooth surface without the need for harsh scrubs. It is also vegan, cruelty-free, and dermatologist tested.
Best for Chapped Lips: Lanolips The Original 101 Ointment
Why We Love It: Lanolips’ multipurpose balm is ideal for extremely dry or cracked lips. Its thick ointment texture melts when applied, forming a protective layer that locks in moisture and shields the skin barrier. The formula uses ultra-refined lanolin, an ingredient known for closely mimicking the skin’s natural oils.
Editor’s Experience: When lips become painfully dry due to harsh weather, Conçetta Ciarlo says this is the only product she trusts. Unlike lighter balms, this rich ointment deeply restores and repairs the lips. She often uses it overnight as an intensive lip mask for maximum hydration.
Key Ingredients: Lanolin, tocopherol
Best Korean Lip Balm: Unleashia Sunset Dazzle Gloss Balm
Why We Love It: The butter balm trend has spread globally, and this K-beauty formula is a great example. The creamy balm provides intense hydration while delivering a glossy finish with subtle shimmer. Its unique silicone applicator helps the product glide smoothly across the lips.
Editor’s Experience: Beauty editor Kiana Murden notes that the pigmentation of this balm is surprisingly strong. With just one swipe, it provides noticeable color while still feeling lightweight and moisturizing. Because of its rich texture, she sometimes wears it instead of traditional lipstick.
Key Ingredients: Meadowfoam seed oil, sunflower seed oil, jojoba seed oil
Best Buttery Texture: Dior Addict Lip Glow Butter
Why We Love It: Dior’s Lip Glow Butter stands out for its ultra-soft, buttery texture and high-shine finish. The formula contains peptides, ceramides, and squalane that work together to provide long-lasting moisture while keeping lips soft and smooth.
Best Lip Mask: Laneige Lip Sleeping Mask
Why We Love It: Laneige’s Lip Sleeping Mask has become one of the most well-known lip treatments in the beauty world. Designed to be used overnight, it contains vitamin C, coconut oil, shea butter, and murumuru butter to deeply moisturize lips while you sleep.
Best Ointment: Aquaphor Lip Repair
Why We Love It: Dermatologists frequently recommend Aquaphor Lip Repair because of its powerful moisture-locking abilities. The formula creates a protective barrier that prevents dryness while soothing cracked lips.
