This post was reviewed and updated by Sarah Otto, Dermatology Nurse Practitioner and Founder of Otto Skin Goods on May 19, 2026.
Sadly, no one’s pout stands a chance against winter’s low humidity. That’s because your lips don’t contain any oil glands, which means they’re more susceptible to drying out and cracking.
That being said, there are plenty of tips to keep your lips moisturized as ever, even in the driest winter months. For one, be sure to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water, and avoid licking your lips excessively. Two, keep a pack of lip balm with high quality hydrating ingredients nearby at all times.
Need help with the second tip? Here are a few hydrating ingredients to look for in your lip balm:
- Avocado oil
- Coconut oil
- Honey
- Castor seed oil
- Hemp seed oil
- Cocoa butter
- Shea butter
- Mango seed butter
- Kokum butter
Secondly, avoid the list below—these common chapstick culprits can cause irritation and allergic reactions, often worsening your dry lips:
- Lanolin
- Synthetic fragrance or flavor
- Peppermint, eucalyptus and cinnamon essential oils
- Menthol
- Chemical SPF
Since it's a big task to sort through every lip balm on the market for these ingredients, I made a list of my favorites for you. Some are thick and hydration-heavy, while others boast a light and barely-there feel. Take a look below at my best lip treatment recommendations to leave your lips super hydrated, never chapped, cracked, flakey or dried out.
4 Hydrating Lip Balms for Chapped Lips
Burt’s Bees Ultra Conditioning Lip Balm with Kokum Butter
This is honestly my gold-standard lip balm. I’ve been using it for years! Infused with Kokum Butter, my absolute favorite butter, this lip balm is hydrating and smooth without feeling too thick. It rolls on with no taste and keeps my lips moist and hydrated for hours. Not to mention, it’s 100% natural and has no fragrance or flavor, so it’s perfect for sensitive skin. I have one in almost every coat pocket I own.
Dr. Bronner's Organic Lip Balm in Naked
Dr. Bronner’s proves, once again, that less is more. I love how simple the ingredients are in this lip balm. This hydrating treatment uses organic avocado, jojoba and hemp oils. With only five ingredients, this balm will be a welcome break from ingredient overload if you have sensitive, dry lips. This stick glides on, keeping my lips soft and smooth. It’s also my new favorite lip balm to use on my kids.
Eco Lips Mongo Kiss Lip Balm in Blood Orange
I recently picked this up at my local juice bar and I’m hooked. It features ultra-hydrating Mongongo oil and is USDA organic. It’s also infused with cocoa butter and a touch of blood orange essential oil. I love the mild fruity flavor. Plus, the brand is cruelty free, gluten free and non-GMO.
Farmacy Beauty Honey Butter Beeswax Lip Balm
When I feel like splurging a bit on my daily lip balm, I always pick up this balm from Farmacy Beauty. It’s made using Cupuacu butter, which is one of my favorite hydrating butters, plus a blend of castor, olive, coconut and jojoba oils. It tastes a bit like honey because it has honey extract, propolis extract and royal jelly extract—which are all nourishing and hydrating. It leaves my lips feeling soothed, moisturized and super soft.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do lips get so dry in winter?
Lips don't have oil glands, which makes them especially vulnerable to drying out and cracking in winter's low humidity.
What are the best ways to prevent chapped lips?
Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water, avoid licking your lips, and keep a quality lip balm on hand at all times.
What ingredients should I look for in a lip balm?
Look for nourishing, hydrating ingredients like avocado oil, coconut oil, honey, castor seed oil, hemp seed oil, cocoa butter, shea butter, mango seed butter, and kokum butter.
Are there any lip balm ingredients I should avoid?
Yes. Lanolin, synthetic fragrance or flavor, peppermint, eucalyptus and cinnamon essential oils, menthol, and chemical SPF can all cause irritation or allergic reactions and may make dry lips worse.
What are some recommended lip balms for dry, chapped lips?
A few top picks include Burt's Bees Ultra Conditioning Lip Balm with Kokum Butter, Dr. Bronner's Organic Lip Balm in Naked, Eco Lips Mongo Kiss Lip Balm in Blood Orange, and Farmacy Beauty Honey Butter Beeswax Lip Balm.
Which lip balm is best for sensitive skin?
Burt's Bees Ultra Conditioning Lip Balm and Dr. Bronner's Organic Lip Balm in Naked are both great choices for sensitive skin. They're fragrance-free and made with simple, natural ingredients.
Are any of these lip balms safe for kids?
Dr. Bronner's Organic Lip Balm in Naked is noted as a good option for children, thanks to its minimal, organic ingredient list.
Do I need to spend a lot on a good lip balm?
Not at all. There are excellent drugstore options like Burt's Bees and Dr. Bronner's. If you'd like to splurge, Farmacy Beauty Honey Butter Beeswax Lip Balm is a luxurious treat.
