In cold, dry weather, the skin on your lips loses moisture very quickly.
The lips don’t have as many oil glands as other parts of your face to self-lubricate.
Indoor heating, wind, and frequent lip-licking can worsen dryness.
As a result, lips become chapped, cracked, or flaky — making a barrier-repairing, hydrating lip balm essential. Dermatologists often recommend using balms that combine humectants (to attract moisture) and occlusives (to lock it in).
What to Look for in a Winter Lip Balm
A truly effective winter lip balm should contain:
Occlusives — such as petrolatum, beeswax, or butters, which seal moisture in.
Emollients — like plant oils or triglycerides for smoothness.
Repairing actives — e.g., panthenol, ceramides, or lipids that help rebuild the barrier.
Humectants (optional) — such as glycerin or hyaluronic acid, to pull in moisture.
Fragrance-free or mild fragrance — to reduce irritation, especially if lips are cracked or sensitive.
Top 7 Lip Balms to Repair Chapped Lips in Winter
Aquaphor Lip Repair
A cult-favorite for a reason. It’s a thick balm/ointment that uses petrolatum plus humectants (like glycerin) and panthenol to deeply repair cracked, very dry lips. Because of its occlusive nature, it locks in moisture beautifully, making it ideal for overnight use or for severely chapped lips.
Vaseline Lip Therapy Original
Very simple but effective. Pure petroleum jelly in a tin — it doesn’t moisturize very actively, but it’s excellent at sealing in any existing moisture. Great as a budget-friendly barrier balm, especially when the wind is drying your lips out.
WishCare Ceramide SPF 50 Lip Balm
This is a modern multitasker: contains ceramides (to help repair your lip barrier), shea butter (for softness), and SPF 50 PA+++ (important even in winter). It hydrates, protects, and helps rebuild lip skin — ideal for daytime when you're outside.
Swiss beauty Kiss Kandy Lip Balm
A very light, non-sticky balm enriched with olive oil and vitamin E. It gives a soft finish, is easy to reapply throughout the day, and offers gentle hydration without feeling greasy.
Laneige Lip Glowy Balm
This is the daytime companion to Laneige’s iconic sleeping mask. It has a glossy “buttery-jelly” texture, murumuru & shea butter to nourish, and humectants to keep lips hydrated. Perfect for everyday use when you want comfort + a subtle shine.
Himalaya Lip Balm
A very affordable, no-fuss choice. It uses natural oils and waxes to soothe dryness — great for regular use and for people who want something gentle, simple, and effective.
Dot & Key Barrier Repair Hydrating Lip Balm SPF 50
Another high-performing barrier balm with SPF. It contains shea and mango butters for rich nourishment, peptides, and UV protection. Excellent for those who need both barrier repair and sun protection in a single product.
Honourable Mention: La Roche-Posay Cicaplast Lèvres
This is a repair balm (not in the product carousel, but worth mentioning).
Key ingredients: 5% Panthenol + 3% MP-Lipids + 10% Shea Butter, which work together to rebuild the lip barrier and soothe cracked, irritated lips.
It's fragrance-free and highly recommended for very dry, sensitive, or damaged lips.
How to Use Lip Balms Effectively in Winter
Apply in layers: Use a lightweight balm during the day + a richer one at night (like Aquaphor).
Exfoliate gently: If your lips are flaky, lightly exfoliate 1–2x a week before applying balm.
Use before going out: Apply balm before heading out in cold or windy weather to protect lips.
Hydrate from within: Drink more water — dry lips are often a symptom of dehydration.
Avoid licking your lips: Saliva evaporates fast and makes lips drier.
Final Thoughts
Severely chapped lips → Go for Aquaphor Lip Repair or La Roche-Posay Cicaplast Lèvres for deep repair.
Daily use in cold weather → Use WishCare Ceramide SPF Balm or Dot & Key Barrier Balm to hydrate + protect.
On-the-go and budget-friendly → Swiss Beauty or Himalaya Lip Balm are lightweight yet effective.
For a glossy finish + hydration → Laneige Lip Glowy Balm is ideal.
Using the right lip balm — consistently — can make a huge difference in how your lips feel and look during the harsh, drying winter months.
Disclaimer:
The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any agency, organization, employer, or company. All information provided is for general informational purposes only. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, we make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, reliability, or suitability of the information contained herein. Readers are advised to verify facts and seek professional advice where necessary. Any reliance placed on such information is strictly at the reader’s own risk.
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