Tried and tested: the most hydrating lip balms

14 July 2025 | By Leila Petersen

We’ve rounded up the best types of balms to suit every need, from luxurious splurges to natural, no-fuss options.

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Whether you're battling dry, chapped winter lips, dealing with the effects of too much matte lipstick, or just want that juicy glow, a great balm can be your best friend. The best part? Lip balms now come in so many forms – from glossy tints to deep overnight repair treatments – there’s one for every need. Here are some of our favourite, tried-and-tested formulas, including some personal recommendations from the Clicks Beauty Squad!

Best luxe buys

For next-level lip care that leaves your pout feeling pampered and polished, look no further than these luxury lip balms. Infused with premium ingredients like botanical oils, nourishing vitamin blends, and even SPF, they're a dream to apply. Think silky, buttery textures with a glossy finish. Bonus: they're often housed in ultra-stylish packaging that looks as good as it feels.

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• Clinique Repairwear Intensive Lip Treatment Stick
• Elizabeth Arden Eight Hour Cream Intensive Lip Repair Balm
• Clinique Moisture Surge Lip Hydro Plump Treatment
• Teaology Matcha Tea Protective Lip Treatment Balm

Best for dry lips

When your lips are cracked, flaky, or painfully dry, you need a balm that prioritises repair. Look for formulas infused with ingredients like lanolin, shea butter, glycerin, or ceramides, which deeply hydrate and create a barrier against further moisture loss. These balms are usually fragrance-free or very lightly scented, and designed for comfort and fast relief.

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• Avene Cicalfate Lips Repair Balm
• Eucerin Even Pigment Intensive Lip Balm
• La Roche-Posay Cicaplast Lip Balm
• Sorbet Hydro Skin Lip Therapy

Best for those wanting colour and care

If you love a pop of colour but don’t want to sacrifice hydration, tinted lip balms are great. These multitasking beauties give lips a soft wash of colour while delivering moisture and shine. Look for balms enriched with oils and butters, and if you’re spending time outdoors, one with built-in SPF is a bonus. Tinted balms are great for low-maintenance days when you want to look fresh and polished without reaching for lipstick.

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• MUA Hydra Juice Peptide Lip Balm Cherry Kiss
• L'Oreal Paris Glow Paradise Balm In Lipstick 193 Rose mirage
• Elizabeth Arden Eight Hour Cream Lip Protectant Stick Sheer Tint SPF15 In Plum
• Catrice Melt & Shine Juicy Lip Balm 070 Pink Hawaii

Best for those looking for natural options

For those who prefer clean or plant-based ingredients, natural lip balms offer peace of mind along with nourishment. These balms are typically made with simple formulas that include beeswax, coconut oil, shea butter, or natural fruit extracts. Many are free from synthetic fragrances, parabens, and mineral oils, making them gentle enough for sensitive skin.

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• Dr Paw Paw Lip Balm Shea Butter
• The Body Shop Swipe It Lip Balm Strawberry
• Teaology Rose Tea Lip Balm
• My Earth Lip Balm Cherry & Pomegranate

Best multi-taskers

If you're someone who likes to keep things simple, a multi-tasking lip balm can be a game-changer. These balms are designed to do more than just hydrate – think subtle tint, a glossy finish, or even added skincare benefits like plumping or soothing properties. Ideal for on-the-go beauty routines or for keeping in your handbag for quick touch-ups.

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• Essence Juicy Berry Tinted Lip & Cheek Balm
• Rimmel Kind & Free Tinted Multi Stick
• Revolution Relove Glam Balm
• Catrice Blushin' Charm Multi Stick

The Clicks Beauty Squad share their favourite balms

Laura Wagner-Meyer.
“I’m all about hydration with a hint of glam. My go-to is the Oh So Heavenly Love Your Lips Shimmer Lip Balm in Pearls of Pleasure. I love the pink shimmer, and the cranberry scent, and it’s super nourishing. For makeup days, Labello Hydro Care Lip Balm preps lips perfectly. And for a glossy finish, Rimmel Thrill Seeker gives me that glazed-doughnut glow I love.”

Jaydé Rencs
“I’m loving the MUA Hydra Juice Peptide Lip Balm in Caramel Glaze. It hydrates, plumps slightly, and smells amazing without being too sweet. It’s never sticky, just smooth and lightweight. Super affordable too. I keep a few around the house so I’m never without one. A perfect everyday essential.”

Sphelele Mkize
“Oh So Heavenly Pearls of Pleasure is my top pick. It adds shimmer while keeping my lips soft and moisturised. The Clicks Duo Lip Pearl is two balms in one, making it a total steal. Lastly, I can't do without Vaseline Lip Balm - classic, long-lasting, protective, and perfect for winter!”