Chapped lips are a common issue faced by people of all ages, especially during the colder months. They can be painful, uncomfortable, and even unsightly. The skin on our lips is thinner and more delicate than the rest of our skin, which makes it more susceptible to drying out and cracking. This is where lip balms come in — they act as a protective barrier and help restore moisture to the lips, alleviating the discomfort that comes with chapped lips.
With so many lip balms available on the market, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one. Dermatologists often recommend specific products that provide effective hydration, long-lasting moisture, and protection against further damage. In this article, we will explore the best lip balms for chapped lips according to dermatologists, discussing their ingredients, benefits, and why they are recommended for people dealing with dry and cracked lips.
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Why Do Lips Get Chapped?
Before we dive into the best lip balms, it’s important to understand why lips become chapped in the first place. Chapped lips are typically caused by environmental factors such as cold weather, wind, and low humidity, which strip moisture from the skin. Other factors include:
- Dehydration: When your body lacks sufficient hydration, it can show up in the form of dry, cracked lips.
- Excessive Lip Licking: While it may feel soothing momentarily, licking your lips can actually make them drier in the long run, as saliva evaporates quickly and removes moisture from the skin.
- Allergies and Irritants: Certain ingredients in cosmetics, lip products, or even toothpaste can cause irritation or allergic reactions that result in chapped lips.
- Vitamin Deficiencies: A lack of essential nutrients, like vitamins B2, B3, and B12, can lead to dryness and cracking around the mouth.
- Sunburn: The lips are especially prone to sunburn, as they lack melanin, the pigment that provides natural sun protection.
While some degree of lip dryness is natural, persistent or severe chapping may require intervention through the use of lip balms that can restore moisture and protect the lips from further damage.
Key Ingredients in Lip Balms
When choosing the best lip balm for chapped lips, dermatologists often recommend products with specific ingredients that offer the most effective hydration and protection. Some of the most beneficial ingredients for healing dry lips include:
- Petrolatum (Petroleum Jelly): A thick, occlusive agent that helps lock in moisture and prevent further dehydration. It’s often found in the most effective lip balms.
- Beeswax: A natural humectant that attracts moisture to the skin and forms a protective barrier to keep lips hydrated.
- Shea Butter: Known for its rich, moisturizing properties, shea butter is often used in lip balms to soothe dry and cracked lips.
- Hyaluronic Acid: A powerful humectant that draws moisture into the skin, keeping the lips plump and hydrated.
- Lanolin: A natural wax derived from sheep’s wool that provides a protective layer on the skin, helping to retain moisture.
- Vitamin E: A potent antioxidant that nourishes the skin and helps heal damaged skin on the lips.
- Sunscreen (SPF): Since the lips are susceptible to sunburn, lip balms with SPF help protect the lips from harmful UV rays, which can exacerbate chapped lips.
Now that we understand what makes a good lip balm, let’s take a look at some of the best options recommended by dermatologists.
1. Aquaphor Healing Ointment
Aquaphor is a highly recommended product by dermatologists due to its excellent moisturizing properties. It contains petrolatum as its primary ingredient, which helps form a barrier on the lips, preventing moisture loss. It also includes panthenol and glycerin, which help hydrate and heal the skin.
Aquaphor is great for extremely dry, cracked, or chapped lips because it creates a thick layer that locks in moisture. Dermatologists often recommend this ointment for people with severe dryness or those suffering from conditions like eczema or psoriasis, as it helps soothe and protect irritated skin.
2. Vaseline Lip Therapy
Vaseline Lip Therapy is another petroleum-based option that works effectively to lock in moisture and prevent further drying. It contains 100% pure petroleum jelly, which is one of the best ingredients for treating chapped lips. The simple, no-frills formula ensures long-lasting hydration, making it a staple for dry lip care.
Vaseline offers several variations, including one with added aloe vera for soothing properties and one with SPF for sun protection. Dermatologists appreciate the versatility and affordability of Vaseline Lip Therapy, especially for those looking for a basic, effective lip balm that provides instant relief.
3. CeraVe Healing Lip Balm
CeraVe is a well-known skincare brand, and its Healing Lip Balm is highly praised by dermatologists. This lip balm contains a blend of ceramides, which are essential for maintaining the skin’s natural barrier. It also includes hyaluronic acid, which helps to retain moisture, and dimethicone, which creates a smooth, protective layer on the lips.
CeraVe Healing Lip Balm is fragrance-free, making it an excellent choice for those with sensitive skin or allergies to certain fragrances. It’s also formulated with SPF 30, providing sun protection for your lips, which is essential for preventing sunburn and further damage.
4. Burt’s Bees Beeswax Lip Balm
Burt’s Bees is a popular natural skincare brand, and its Beeswax Lip Balm is one of the best-selling lip balms on the market. This product contains beeswax, which acts as a natural occlusive agent, trapping moisture and forming a protective layer on the lips. It also contains vitamin E and peppermint oil, which help to soothe and refresh the lips.
Dermatologists recommend Burt’s Bees for those who prefer natural skincare products. The addition of peppermint oil provides a cooling sensation, which can be particularly soothing for irritated or chapped lips. However, those with very sensitive skin should test it on a small area first, as peppermint oil may cause a slight tingling sensation.
5. Eucerin Advanced Repair Lip Balm
Eucerin is a trusted brand for those with dry or sensitive skin, and its Advanced Repair Lip Balm is no exception. This lip balm contains a combination of shea butter, ceramides, and glycerin, which work together to hydrate and repair the lips. The formula is rich and nourishing, making it ideal for people with chronic dry lips.
Eucerin Advanced Repair Lip Balm is fragrance-free and non-irritating, making it suitable for people with sensitive skin. It’s also a great option for those suffering from conditions like eczema or psoriasis, as it helps restore moisture and alleviate discomfort.
6. Neutrogena Norwegian Formula Lip Moisturizer
Neutrogena’s Norwegian Formula Lip Moisturizer is a dermatologist-recommended lip balm known for its ability to provide long-lasting moisture. It contains a blend of emollients that hydrate and protect the lips, and it’s formulated to be lightweight and non-greasy. The balm is also fragrance-free, which is ideal for individuals with sensitivities to fragrances.
This lip balm is particularly beneficial for individuals who need a simple, no-frills solution for dry lips. It offers continuous hydration, making it perfect for use during the day or as a nighttime treatment.
7. Laneige Lip Sleeping Mask
Laneige’s Lip Sleeping Mask is a luxurious option for those looking for a more intensive treatment for their dry lips. This overnight lip mask contains a blend of hyaluronic acid, vitamin C, and antioxidants, which work together to hydrate and repair the lips while you sleep. The thick, buttery formula provides deep moisture and leaves lips feeling soft and smooth by morning.
While it’s a bit more expensive than some of the other lip balms on this list, dermatologists recommend it for people who experience chronic dryness or have lips that require extra care. It’s also a great choice for those who want to pamper their lips with a high-quality, nourishing treatment.
8. Dr. Dan’s CortiBalm Lip Balm
For those with extremely chapped lips due to skin conditions like eczema, Dr. Dan’s CortiBalm Lip Balm is a dermatologist-approved option. It contains hydrocortisone, a mild anti-inflammatory medication that helps reduce redness and swelling associated with severely dry lips. It also includes petrolatum and beeswax to lock in moisture.
This lip balm is often recommended for individuals with severely cracked lips or those who experience frequent flare-ups due to skin conditions. It’s available over-the-counter and provides fast relief for irritated, inflamed lips.
Conclusion
Chapped lips can be a persistent and frustrating issue, but choosing the right lip balm can make a world of difference. Dermatologists recommend lip balms with ingredients like petroleum jelly, beeswax, ceramides, hyaluronic acid, and vitamin E, as these provide hydration, protection, and healing for dry, cracked lips. Whether you prefer a simple, natural option like Burt’s Bees or a more luxurious treatment like Laneige Lip Sleeping Mask, there is a lip balm for every need and budget.
When selecting a lip balm, be sure to consider factors like your skin type, the severity of your chapped lips, and any sensitivities to fragrances or other ingredients. With the right product and consistent care, you can keep your lips soft, smooth, and well-hydrated year-round.