Need Better Lip Balm? Dermatologists and Grooming Editors Recommend These Chapsticks for Men

ProsIdeal for super dry lipsContains sunscreenFragrance-freeConsCan be greasy if too much is appliedThis near-perfect lip balm checks all the boxes you want in a balm. It’s so moisturizing that it instantly soothes and protects even the driest, crustiest lips thanks to the tried-and-true ingredients in the formula. “The combination of lanolin and purified petrolatum has long been used for extra-dry skin,” says Dr. Zeichner. This balm contains both, plus a helping of shea butter for good measure. Yes, it’s good for dry lips, but your lips don’t have to be extra dry to use it and get a benefit. It also helps protect lips from drying out.There’s also SPF in the formula, which other similar lip ointments don’t typically have, which is what makes this balm our best overall pick. Whether you’re applying it in the depths of winter to heal chapped lips or in the summer to prevent lip sunburn, it’s your all-season, all-weather best bet.Read More: Best SPF Moisturizers for MenProsContains sunscreenSmall enough to slip into pocket and take anywhereComes in multiple flavor optionsConsSome flavors are tintedEven if this balm stick didn’t contain sun protection, it would still be at the top of this list. The ultra-moisturizing coconut oil base both protects and moisturizes your lips for hours, and the addition of aloe and Vitamin E increases its hydration factors exponentially, as well as giving it a soothing element that’s welcome on dry lips, especially if they’ve been out in the sun.But since it does have sunscreen (dermatologist-approved SPF 30, in fact), we can’t help but stan. It’s the perfect double-duty lip balm that not only moisturizes your lips but protects them from the damaging UV rays of the sun. It’s absolutely a beach day essential, but we recommend using it every day, just like you would your facial sunscreen, to help prevent cumulative damage in the long term (and keep your lips hydrated to boot).Advertisement - Continue Reading BelowProsGreat selection of scentsContains sun protectionNo waxinessSometimes it can be difficult to justify paying higher prices for something like a lip balm that feels so small and inconsequential. But then you use a higher-quality lip balm, and you wonder how you could ever go back to the cheap stuff. The glide on this balm is unparalleled, with a smooth finish that’s free of any waxy clumps or weird stickiness. The elevated scent-slash-flavor is minty but not overpowering or fake-feeling.The secret to the formula is the mix of petrolatum, shea butter, and avocado oil, which give it a rich and emollient feel without stiffness or waxiness. There are also antioxidants like Vitamin E and green tea, which help to protect skin from free radicals that can lead to signs of aging and other damage. Think of this tiny powerhouse as a fancy moisturizer for your lips and less of your generic balm.ProsHeals very dry and cracked skinIdeal for daily use There’s a reason Vaseline has been around for so long (since 1870, to be precise) — it’s still one of the most healing and moisturizing products on the market. It’s ideal for especially dry and cracked skin and can help heal it like new with lightning speed. It’s because the petrolatum not only moisturizes skin but also forms an occlusive barrier that helps prevent water from evaporating out (yes, that’s a real thing) and prevents bad stuff from getting inside.Inside this tube, you’ll find classic Vaseline, like the kind you get in a tub, though this is much better because you don’t need to get your fingers greasy in order to use it (we’d venture to say it’s also more hygienic). Plus, the tube is way easier to carry around in your pocket.Advertisement - Continue Reading BelowProsUltra-moisturizingUltra-moisturizingLet’s be realistic: Most of us really only apply lip balm when our lips feel dry or chapped, so moisturizing ability is the most important thing to consider when choosing a lip balm. This stick is very straightforward in its moisturizing and softening abilities. “High concentrations of shea butter soften rough cells on the surface of lips and help repair dry skin,” Dr. Zeichner says. “It’s great for extra-dry, chapped lips.”You’ll also find castor oil in the formula, yet another moisturizing and protective agent, as well as a couple of different kinds of natural waxes, which help it retain its stick shape but also pull double duty as moisturizers. So you see, if what you’re really after is an effective and protective moisturizing stick for your lips, this one is one of the best.ProsCan be used on other parts of the bodySuitable for sensitive skinPlant-basedConsCostly for one small tube, but made for all skin typesWhen something comes with this sort of price tag, it’s always good for it to provide multiple uses. On that front, and more, this one really delivers. “This plant-based balm is great for anyone with dry lips, and it can even be used if you are extra sensitive,” says Dr. Zeichner. “It’s free of parabens, phthalates, and fragrance, and can also be applied to dry skin, cuts, or burns.”The simple formula contains only three ingredients—castor seed oil, glycerin, and castor wax—all of which are highly effective moisturizers that not only help to heal and moisturize the skin, but also protect it from both water loss and the outside elements, allowing it to heal more effectively. Keep this ointment around for your lips, of course, but also when you get little burns, scrapes or cuts to help them heal with minimal scarring.Advertisement - Continue Reading BelowProsFormula has antioxidants for additional protectionContains sun protectionWater-resistantConsExpensive compared to other lip balmsTypically, lip balms rely on chemical sunscreens to give their formulas sun protection. That’s not necessarily a bad thing, but if you’re a fan of mineral sunscreen for whatever reason, this one contains both. That means not only do you have sensitive skin-friendly mineral sunscreens, but it uses fewer chemicals to offer a lot of sun protection (the most on this list).In addition to the sunscreen component, this incredibly hydrating formula is also packed with antioxidants, vitamins C and E, which help to give additional protection against signs of aging, and an innovative ingredient called Hydromanil that offers immediate and long-term moisture to even very dry lips. While you can definitely consider this a sunscreen for your lips and use it when you’re going to be in the sun, it’s moisturizing enough to use every day.ProsMoisturizes and smoothens lipsFormula includes antioxidants70% organic ingredientsConsMay have to reapply after 80 minutes if you're in the waterYes, this is a lip balm made by a sunscreen brand, so all of your classic sunscreen things apply here. There’s broad-spectrum SPF 30, it’s water-resistant up to 80 minutes, and it uses chemical sunscreens to provide protection. That’s all great, but it’s – shockingly – not the main reason we chose it.Even with the sun protection factors, this lip balm is one of the most hydrating we tried. The hydration comes from natural plant butters and oils, which deeply moisturize skin while also leaving your lips feeling smooth and supple. Plus, the formula is packed with antioxidants that help to further protect your skin from the aging and skin-damaging effects of the sun’s UV rays.Danny Perez is a Reviews Editor for Popular Mechanics with a focus on men's style, gear, and home goods. Recently, he was coordinator of partnership content at another product journalism outlet. Prior to that, he was a buyer for an independent men's shop in Houston, Texas, where he learned all about what makes great products great. He enjoys thrifting for 90s Broadway tees and vintage pajama sets. His spare time is occupied by watching movies and running to impress strangers on Strava.Garrett Munce writes about men's style and grooming. He's written for Esquire, New York Magazine, Spotlyte, and Very Good Light and held staff positions at GQ and W. Follow his skincare obsession on Instagram at @garrettmunce.Sean Zucker is the Grooming and Reviews Editor at Men's Health. He brings over half a decade of experience covering health, wellness, and lifestyle. When Sean's not writing about hair products, you can find him running for exercise, or toward the nearest food truck.