Lip balms have outgrown their purely utilitarian roots. A decade ago, if you’d ask someone what the best lip balm was, their response might be Aquaphor or Chapstick—something to lock in moisture and stave off the effects of winter’s chill. In 2026, however, formulas are more playful, blurring the lines between lip care and flair—pairing the benefits of traditional ointments with the versatility of makeup. More likely than not, they’re available in colors and finishes that expand the definition of the word “balm.”
From the mauve, chocolate, and rose-colored hues of Rhode’s peptide lip tints to the cushiony, glass finishes of Summer Fridays’s lip butter balms, these treat hydration and aesthetics with equal priority. Despite their reputation as a cold-weather affliction, chapped lips can strike year-round and at any time of day—and our favorite formulas are up to the challenge. “Lip balms are products intended to nourish and moisturize the lips by preventing water loss and protecting the lip mucosa,” board-certified dermatologist Azadeh Shirazi, MD tells Vogue. “A good lip balm should provide protection against environmental stressors such as cold, wind, low humidity, and irritating substances.”
Vogue’s Guide to the Best Lip Balms
Ahead, we’ve rounded up our 12 favorite formulas that make lips feel smooth and supple, along with dermatologist insight to consign their skincare benefits. Cheers to hydrated pouts ahead!
In This Story
Best Overall: Summer Fridays Lip Butter Balm
Vogue’s Kiana Murden uses Summer Friday’s Lip Butter Balm.