Written by The Strategy

I rarely go anywhere without lip balm. There’s some in every bag, on my desk, and on my bedside. There is nothing that drives me more bananas than the feeling of dry lips. With so many options out there, it’s hard to decide what lip balm to go with. Do you go with the cheap and cheerful option of Vaseline, or do you make the splurge for the Rodin? To help you decide, we test drove 5 lip balms to tell you what we think of each. The price points range, as does their effect on your lips.

Rodin Lip Balm

With just a hint of pink and a super softening effect, I loved this lip balm for a night out. It provided a good base for our lipstick, and as the night went on, it was a perfect lip touch up. As a self-described lip balm addict, I was happy that this lip balm didn’t make me feel like I had to re-apply every half hour.

Bobbi Brown Lip Balm

I’ve been using this balm since high school and always have a tin of it somewhere. It does have a thicker feel to it, but I like that it has a protective element to it. It also has aloe vera in it that helps to make the ‘smooth’ feeling last longer.

Kiehl’s ‘Facial Fuel’ No-Shine Moisturizing Lip Balm

While this product is technically intended for men, I personally was a huge fan of it. For starters, I did like that it came in a stick form that could just be swiped on your lips. After a day out shopping, or wandering the city, it’s nice to not repeatedly dip your fingers in a tub and put it on your lips. This isn’t ideal for a lipstick primer, as it has no shine and a very matte finish, but I would recommend it for travel and weekends, when you’re not going for a heavy look.

Vaseline Lip Therapy Original Lip Balm

Classic Vaseline. I have to say, at a price point of under $5, this product provides the most bang for your buck. It moisturizes your lips, can remove eye make-up, soothe burns, unstick a zipper…need I continue? As you most probably already know, this product leaves your lips smooth and with a slight gloss.

Nivea Essential Lip Care

I will be honest in saying that this product didn’t last very long on my lips. I love Nivea products in general, but I found myself needing to re-apply regularly. It may just be me though, as others at TS HQ consider this to be a beauty must.  It also has a thicker feel to it, and once applied, your lips are incredibly soft.