My Favourite Lip Balms for Everyday Hydration

If there is one thing you will find in my makeup bag or tucked away in every single handbag I own, it is a lippy. Usually, that means it is either a luxe balm or a juicy gloss, or sometimes, both. I have a soft spot for clear formulas and tinted ones that give just a subtle wash of colour. They're my go-to everyday essential, the kind of product that makes me feel instantly put-together, even on no-makeup days.

When it comes to lip care, for me, quality is everything, and I naturally gravitate towards products that are deeply hydrating, nourishing, moisturising, plumping, and non-sticky. So, here, I'm sharing the lip care icons that have earned their place in my makeup bag.

Skinceuticals Antioxidant Lip Repair

This has easily become a staple in my skincare kit, especially during colder months when my lips need extra care. It is infused with Sylimarin and Vitamin E, both known for their intensely hydrating and antioxidant benefits. Together, they soften and protect my lips from dryness and environmental stress.

Since it doesn't come with an applicator, I apply the product with my fingertips (clean, of course). The antioxidant lip repair's texture is silky and smooth, which absorbs well with no sticky residue.

I use it as an overnight lip mask (a pea-sized amount is plenty!) or on bare-lips days when I don't feel like wearing a gloss or hint of colour but still want my lips moisturised and hydrated.

If I'm heading out in the daytime, I always make sure to top it with SPF, because sun protection is non-negotiable, even for your mouth! It's the kind of product that quietly does its job and does it really well. So, if you're serious about anti-ageing lip care or suffer from dry, dehydrated lips, this is a splurge that pays off.

Clarins Lip Comfort Oil (Shade 01 Honey)

Few lip oils have achieved cult status quite like this one. The Clarins Lip Comfort Oil, especially the shade 01 Honey, was my introduction to lip oils, and honestly, it set the bar high. Available in eight ultra-nourishing shades, Honey remains my favourite. It's non-sticky, hydrating, and gives off that mirror-like shine that makes lips appear naturally plump.

It has a soft, subtle scent and is packed with 93% natural-origin ingredients, including organic jojoba oil, sweetbriar rose, and hazelnut oil, all working hard to condition and protect. The plush built-in applicator makes application feel luxe and easier. I often use it as a moisturising prep before I do my makeup, but 99% of the time, I prefer to wear it solo for a glossy, effortless finish. If you peek in my bag, you will definitely find it there.

Rouge Dior Lip Balm (000 natural)

I first spotted the Rouge Dior Lip Balm while browsing the Boots UK website and instantly fell in love with its chic, minimalist appeal, and the fact that it's refillable (ooph! A big plus for sustainability). The formula is 95% natural-origin ingredients, super hydrating, protects lips from drying, and offers just the right amount of shine and has a light floral scent. The shade adapts beautifully to your natural lip colour. So, instead of masking your lips, it gives a soft, translucent finish that enhances your natural pigment. It's the perfect "your lips but better" balm for anyone who loves a clean, polished look.

Nº1 De Chanel Lip and Cheek Balm

If you are a minimalist when it comes to makeup or love a simplified makeup routine, you will love the Chanel Lip and Cheek Balm. This 2-in-1 multitasker gives your lips and cheeks a natural, radiant flush. It comes in a chic little pot, and the creamy, buildable formula melts into the skin seamlessly. It's perfect for streamlining your vanity, clutch or travel makeup kit.

Westman Atelier Squeaky Clean (Nou Nou)

So, I've been wanting to try the Westman Atelier lip balm since like forever, and finally settled on the beautiful shade Nou Nou. If you are interested in clean beauty without sacrificing performance, this is a must-try.

It is packed with organic jojoba, almond, and argan oils that nourish and hydrate your lips. It's silicone and mineral oil-free, making it ideal if you prefer clean beauty formulas. It comes with a built-in doe-foot applicator that makes application super easy, and the texture feels smooth, glossy, non-sticky and lightweight. It gives a soft shine that enhances your natural lip.

In summary

I think at this point, you've noticed a common theme: I'm all about lip products that care for, nourish, hydrate, and protect your lips just as much as they beautify them. So whether you use them to prep your lip before applying a lipstick, wear them alone for a natural look (as I often do!), layer them over colour for extra shine, or slather them on as a comforting overnight mask, adding one of these to your routine is an instant worthwhile upgrade. So if you're searching for hydrating, non-sticky lip balms, these are my tried-and-true favourites.