Lip balm is a very important product during the cold months. As the seasons shift and chilly winds roll in, one of the first signs that your skin is taking a hit is the condition of your lips. Unlike other areas of your face, lips lack oil glands, meaning they cannot produce their own natural moisture or protective oils. This makes them uniquely vulnerable to drying out, cracking, and becoming sore during cold, windy weather.
Many people underestimate the importance of lip care, but when exposed to harsh environmental conditions, dry lips can quickly become uncomfortable, painful, and unsightly. The constant friction of dry, flaky lips against the teeth and tongue only worsens the problem. That’s why having the right lip balm, one that not only hydrates but also forms a protective barrier, is essential to maintaining a soft, healthy pout.
What to Look for in a Lip Balm for Windy, Dry Days
Lip balms differ widely in texture, ingredients, and effectiveness, so choosing one suited to cold, windy weather is key. Ideally, your lip balm should contain:
- Occlusives such as petrolatum (petroleum jelly), beeswax, or shea butter. These ingredients seal the skin’s surface and prevent moisture from evaporating, forming a shield against wind and cold.
- Humectants like glycerin and hyaluronic acid that attract moisture to the lips and keep them hydrated.
- Nourishing oils such as jojoba, almond, coconut, or avocado oil, which soothe and repair damaged skin.
- SPF protection because UV rays can still damage lips in winter, choose balms with broad-spectrum SPF 15 or higher.
- Avoid lip balms that contain fragrances, camphor, menthol, or phenol, as these can irritate sensitive lips or worsen dryness.
Signs You Might Need to Switch Lip Balm
If your lips continue to crack, peel, or feel sore despite regular balm use, it could be a sign that your current product isn’t effective or contains irritating ingredients. Sometimes allergic reactions to fragrances or preservatives cause persistent dryness. In these cases, try fragrance-free, dermatologist-tested balms and consider consulting a healthcare professional if the problem persists.
Lifestyle Tips to Protect Your Lips from Wind and Cold
Beyond lip balm, a few lifestyle changes can help protect your lips through the colder months. Wearing a scarf or a face covering can physically shield lips from direct wind exposure. Using a humidifier indoors combats dry air caused by heating systems. Staying well-hydrated by drinking plenty of water also keeps skin, including lips, healthier.
Including antioxidant-rich foods in your diet supports skin repair and overall health. Foods like berries, nuts, and leafy greens help your skin better resist environmental damage.
Ingredient Spotlight: What Makes These Lip Balms So Effective?
Understanding the key ingredients in these balms helps you see why they work so well against dry, windy weather:
- Petrolatum (Petroleum Jelly): A powerful occlusive agent, petrolatum forms a protective barrier on the skin’s surface to lock in moisture and protect against environmental aggressors. It is hypoallergenic and very effective at healing chapped lips.
- Beeswax: Natural beeswax not only seals moisture but also contains vitamin A, which promotes skin health. It creates a breathable barrier that protects lips without clogging pores.
- Shea Butter: Rich in fatty acids and vitamins, shea butter deeply nourishes and softens the skin while supporting repair and soothing inflammation.
- Hyaluronic Acid: A superstar humectant, it attracts and holds water molecules, providing hydration and a plumping effect to the lips.
- Lanolin: Derived from wool, lanolin is an excellent moisturiser that forms a protective layer and penetrates deeply to heal dry, cracked skin.
- Natural Oils (Jojoba, Coconut, Almond, Rose Oil): These oils provide nourishment, help repair the skin barrier, and add a silky texture to balms. Some, like rose oil, also have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Vitamin E: A potent antioxidant, vitamin E protects lips from free radical damage and supports healing.
- Menthol & Camphor: Often included for a cooling, soothing sensation, these ingredients provide temporary relief from discomfort but may irritate sensitive lips.
My Top 9 Lip Balms That Really Work on Dry, Windy Days
After extensive testing and customer reviews, here are the lip balms that truly stand out when it comes to protecting lips from the harsh elements.
Vaseline Original (Petroleum Jelly)
About the product:
Vaseline Original (also called Vaseline Petroleum Jelly or Vaseline Lip Therapy Original Balm) is basically the classic occlusive lip treatment. It’s very simple: a balm that’s meant to protect, relieve and heal dry and chapped lips by sealing in moisture. It’s been around forever and has built its reputation as the “no-frills, all barrier” option.
Main Ingredients:
The formula is almost entirely petrolatum (petroleum jelly) with a touch of parfum (fragrance) in some versions.
Texture & Feel:
Vaseline has a jelly-like texture: thick, greasy (in a protective way), with a slight shine. It doesn’t absorb quickly—it sits on the lips, forming a glossy barrier. Because of its simplicity, there’s little scent or flavour (depending on version), and it feels heavy compared to lighter balm formulas, but that heaviness is part of what makes it good for sealing.
Why it’s best:
Because petrolatum is one of the best occlusives available, Vaseline does a great job at preventing moisture loss and protecting lips from wind, cold or irritation. It has a very low risk of irritation because the formulation is minimal. If your lips are severely dry or cracked, it helps keep things from getting worse (by forming a physical barrier) and allows whatever moisture you have to stay locked in. Also, its long life and low cost make it accessible and dependable.
Best for:
- Very dry or cracked lips, especially in harsh weather (wind, cold).
- Overnight use or when you need a strong seal (e.g. after applying something hydrating underneath).
- People who prefer ultra-simple formulas and are okay with a heavier texture.
- Those with sensitive lips who want to avoid many additives (though check the version for fragrance).
💧Vaseline Original
A timeless classic that locks in moisture with its simple yet unbeatable occlusive formula, perfect for sealing hydration on even the driest lips.
Eucerin Dry Skin Intensive Lip Balm
About the product:
This is a dermatologically-formulated balm designed for dry to very dry lips, including those with more severe issues like chapping, cracking or irritation. It’s meant to offer ongoing repair rather than just surface comfort, with a more complex blend of humectants, emollients, plus soothing actives.
Main Ingredients:
- Glycerol (glycerin) – a humectant to draw moisture in.
- Panthenol – supports skin healing and soothes irritated skin.
- Licochalcone A (from liquorice extract) – anti-inflammatory, reduces redness.
- Evening Primrose Oil – helps restore the lipid barrier.
- Other supportive ingredients: shea butter, beeswax, castor oil, etc.
Texture & Feel:
The balm has a gel-balm / creamy balm feel. It’s richer than lightweight sticks but not as thick (or glossy) as pure petroleum jelly; it spreads well, absorbs to a certain degree, but still maintains enough of a protective film. It feels soothing, non-sticky, and is gentle—not heavy or greasy in an uncomfortable way.
Why it’s best:
Because it combines moisture attractors (humectants) and barrier-builders + soothing actives, it does more than just coat the lips. It actually helps repair, calm irritation, and reduce redness, while still offering long-lasting hydration. Also, it’s free from fragrance, colourants, preservatives, and tested for sensitive/or problematic skin. That makes it much less likely to irritate already compromised lips.
Best for:
- Lips that are very dry, cracked, or suffering from irritation or redness.
- Those with sensitive skin or conditions like eczema, cheilitis, or “lick-lip” issues.
- Users who prefer something less greasy but still deeply nourishing.
- Day-use as well as nighttime repair.
🩺Eucerin Dry Skin Intensive Lip Balm
A dermatologist-approved treatment balm enriched with panthenol and licochalcone A that soothes, repairs, and comforts severely chapped lips
Burt’s Bees Beeswax Lip Balm
About the product:
Burt’s Bees Beeswax Lip Balm is a classic natural balm. It’s made mainly from beeswax, oils, and other botanicals, with a focus on natural ingredients and minimal additives. It offers lightweight moisturisation with a bit of flavour (often peppermint) and a traditional stick format.
Main Ingredients:
- Beeswax – for forming a protective barrier and locking in moisture.
- Coconut Oil, Sunflower Seed Oil – emollients and skin-softeners.
- Almond Oil, Vitamin E – conditioning, antioxidant benefit.
- Peppermint Oil (in many versions) – gives fragrance/flavour and a cooling sensation.
Texture & Feel:
It’s a more lightweight stick balm. Feels waxy but smooth, with a cooling tingle if peppermint is present. It doesn’t feel like a heavy mask; you’ll feel it throughout the day, but it’s not overly occlusive. The glossiness is moderate—more natural shine than a greasy gloss.
Why it’s best:
It’s great for daily maintenance: moisturising, protecting, soothing. The natural beeswax helps with the barrier, whilst the oils help soften and condition. The peppermint gives a fresh feel that many people enjoy. For people who don’t need a full-on overnight treatment but want reliable lip care, this hits a sweet spot. Also, because it’s natural (or closer to natural) and less heavy, it’s easy to wear under or around makeup without feeling like you have a thick coating.
Best for:
- Daily use throughout the day.
- Slightly dry lips that need a maintenance balm.
- People who like natural ingredients and mild flavour or scent.
- Carry-around balms, purse or pocket friendly.
🐝Burt’s Bees Beeswax Lip Balm
A natural everyday essential made with beeswax and botanical oils to soften, smooth, and protect lips without feeling heavy or greasy
Apivita Lip Care Cocoa Butter SPF20
About the product:
Apivita’s Cocoa Butter Lip Care SPF20 is a richly formulated balm in stick form that hydrates, protects, and nourishes lips. Designed for all-year use, especially ideal during sunny days or outdoor activities, it combines moisturising butters and waxes with sun protection, helping to guard against UV damage while soothing dry or chapped lips. It claims ~90% natural origin ingredients, and is free from parabens, silicones, and mineral oil.
Main Ingredients:
- Cocoa Butter – for deep moisturisation and to help maintain lip elasticity.
- Beeswax, Sunflower Wax, Shea Butter, Castor Oil, Jojoba Esters – a mix of emollients and barrier-forming waxes to help soften and protect the lips.
- Bisabolol – a soothing ingredient, helps calm irritation
- SPF 20 filters – includes UV filters like Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate (for UVB protection) and Butyl Methoxydibenzoylmethane (for UVA), plus Titanium Dioxide for additional protection.
- Olive Oil, Honey Extract, Avocado Oil, Organic Geranium Essential Oil – additional botanicals for nourishment, softness, and a neutral, pleasant aroma.
Texture & Feel:
The balm has a buttery-soft texture; richly emollient but not greasy. It feels smooth going on, with enough wax and butters to create a protective layer. Despite its richness, many users report it absorbs reasonably well for the level of protection and doesn’t feel overly oily or heavy. The cocoa butter gives a creamy feel, and its neutrality in flavour and scent means it’s comfortable for everyday use.
Why it’s best:
- Offers both moisture + protection: hydrating ingredients and SPF, which many balms lack.
- High natural ingredient percentage (~90%) and clean-beauty credentials (no parabens, silicones, mineral oil) make it good for those preferring gentler formulas.
- The inclusion of soothing agents (bisabolol, honey extract) helps with remedying irritation, while the waxes & butters seal moisture.
- Versatile use: good for outdoor use (sun, wind) and daily day-wear; works well under lipstick or on its own.
Best for:
- People who need lip balm that protects from sun exposure during the day (SPF20 helps).
- Those with dry lips who want something richer but still usable daily.
- Users who prefer more natural/botanical formulas.
- Those who dislike heavy fragrance want something with a more neutral scent.
- Outdoor activity lovers who want protection + hydration.
🌞Apivita Lip Care Cocoa Butter SPF20
A nourishing, cocoa butter-based lip balm with SPF 20 that hydrates, soothes, and shields lips from sun damage all day long.
Carmex Original Lip Balm
About the product:
Carmex Original is a medicated balm known for its “tingle” and strong relief for severely dry, cracked or irritated lips. It’s been used for generations and is often a go-to when lips are super uncomfortable.
Main Ingredients:
- White Petrolatum (~45%) – occlusive to seal moisture.
- Camphor & Menthol – these are cooling, soothing (but can sting on very raw skin).
- Cocoa Butter – for moisturisation.
- Lanolin, Beeswax – more emollient / protective support.
- Active ingredients also include salicylic acid in some versions (for mild exfoliating or softening action).
Texture & Feel:
Carmex has a thicker, slightly waxy and medicated texture. On application, you feel the menthol/camphor tingle (cooling / almost stinging if the lips are very badly cracked). It feels more ointment-like, and between applications, it can feel protective and soothing, but the scent/flavour is strong. It has more of a “repair” feeling than a neutral balm—you know it’s working, because of that cooling sensation.
Why it’s best:
For lips that are badly cracked, inflamed, or feeling raw, the medicated ingredients (menthol, camphor) help calm discomfort and create relief. It also has a strong occlusive base to prevent moisture loss. Because it’s been a longstanding formula, it’s easy to find and is relatively affordable. It helps where gentler balms might not be enough.
Best for:
- Extremely dry, cracked or sore lips.
- Situations where you need immediate relief (after sunburn, windburn, cold exposure).
- People who are okay with strong scent/taste and tingling sensations.
- Not the gentlest for ultra-sensitive or extremely raw lips (could sting).
❄️Carmex Original Lip Balm
The iconic medicated balm that cools, tingles, and instantly relieves cracked, sore lips while forming a lasting protective layer.
Nuxe Rêve de Miel Lip Balm
About the product:
Rêve de Miel (Dream of Honey) by Nuxe is a richer, more indulgent balm designed for very dry or damaged lips. It has a reputation for being nearly luxurious in its texture and restorative effect, often used as an overnight treatment or on lips that need real repair.
Main Ingredients:
- Honey (Lavender Honey from Provence), Beeswax, Propolis – natural “beehive” ingredients that nourish, soothe and provide antibacterial properties.
- Shea Butter – deeply emollient and repairing.
- Various plant oils (sunflower, sweet almond, etc.), extracts, vitamin E, and antioxidants.
Texture & Feel:
Rich, thick, almost balm-mask-like. It melts into the lips, feels substantial, with natural aroma (honey, citrus/herbal notes depending on batch). It’s more viscous than lighter sticks; on dry lips, you feel the comfort and the occlusion—it stays on overnight and in harsher conditions better than thin balms.
Why it’s best:
Because of its blend of honey + waxes + oils, it not only moisturises but also soothes irritated or damaged lips. The antibacterial/honey elements help with healing. Many users note that dry patches are visibly improved after consistent use, and discomfort is reduced. Also, its scent and sensory feel make using it a small joy rather than a chore.
Best for:
- Very dry, flaky or cracked lips, especially overnight or in cold/dry weather.
- Lips that need both moisture and healing/soothing (not just gloss).
- People who like balms with a stronger natural scent and richer texture.
- Use as a nightly balm or mask (or on severely dry spots).
🍯Nuxe Rêve de Miel Lip Balm
A luxurious, honey-infused balm that cocoons lips in rich nourishment, ideal for overnight repair or pampering dry, winter-worn lips.
Dr. Paw Paw Original Balm
About the product:
Dr. Paw Paw Original Balm is a multi-use balm (vegan, cruelty-free) that uses papaya (pawpaw) fruit extract, plus other natural oils and butters. It’s meant to be versatile: for lips, cuticles, dry skin patches etc. It’s simpler, more natural, and focused on soothing and nourishing rather than medicating.
Main Ingredients:
- Papaya (pawpaw) fruit extract, aloe vera leaf extract – soothing, healing, antioxidant properties
- Olive oil, sunflower seed oil, castor seed oil – emollient oils to moisturise and soften.
- Candelilla wax (natural wax), hydroxystearic acid, etc. – for structure + helping form protective barrier.
Texture & Feel:
Moderately rich, but not super heavy. It spreads easily from the stick (or tube) format, melts into lips with a smooth gloss-balm feel, with a slight sheen. Because it’s less “medicated” or perfumed than some, the feel is more natural and comfortable for everyday wear.
Why it’s best:
Its natural blend and multi-use flexibility make it great for people who want one product that does many things. It also provides enough nourishment without being overly sticky or heavy. And because it has soothing plant extracts, it’s gentle. The fact that it works on cuticles, dry patches, etc. makes it a good value.
Best for:
- Those who like natural/plant-based formulas.
- People who want a balm that works for lips + other dry spots.
- Lips that are dry but not extremely cracked (or in recovery phases).
- Daily use, in bag/tube form for on-the-go.
🌿Dr. Paw Paw Original Balm
A multi-use, papaya-based balm that hydrates and soothes not just lips but cuticles and dry patches too — a true handbag hero.
Laneige Lip Sleeping Mask
About the product:
The Laneige Lip Sleeping Mask is a rich overnight treatment designed to deeply hydrate and repair dry, chapped lips while you sleep. It’s a cult favourite in the K-beauty world, known for delivering noticeably softer, smoother lips by morning. It comes in a small jar with a spatula for applying a generous, occlusive layer before going to bed.
Main Ingredients:
- Shea Butter & Murumuru Seed Butter – deeply emollient butters that nourish the lips and help restore their barrier.
- Coconut Oil – adds moisture and softness and helps with smoothing texture.
- Diisostearyl Malate & other emollients/occlusives – these help lock in hydration, reduce moisture loss, and give that rich, glowy feel.
- Berry extracts / Vitamin C – for antioxidant protection and a subtle scent/flavour; helps with brightness and overall lip health.
Texture & Feel:
It has a thick, lush, buttery-gel feel—more intense than a regular balm but still melts smoothly when applied. At first, it has a slight gloss/shine, and feels comforting and rich rather than greasy or overly sticky. Many users report that its texture is “luxurious” and “cushioning,” giving a protective coat that stays overnight without feeling unpleasant.
Why it’s best:
Best for:
This mask stands out because it doesn’t just temporarily smooth lips—it repairs and regenerates while you sleep. The blend of occlusives + rich plant butters + antioxidant extracts means it seals moisture in, so even in the morning, dry patches are visibly reduced. Also, despite its richness, it’s pleasant to use (smell, feel, spread), and many users find that a little goes a long way. That makes it ideal for nights when your lips really need TLC.
- People with very dry or flaky lips, especially in colder/dryer weather.
- Anyone who wants an overnight repair treatment rather than just daytime maintenance.
- Users who don’t mind a richer, heavier texture (and enjoy a bit of gloss).
- Those looking for something multi-sensory (good scent/flavour, indulgent feel) as part of self-care.
A cult-favourite overnight lip mask packed with butters and antioxidants that deeply restore hydration and leave lips plush by morning.
The Body Shop Vitamin E Lip Care Overnight
About the product:
This lip balm is a nighttime treatment from The Body Shop’s Vitamin E line, designed to deeply nourish and help repair lips while you sleep. It’s formulated to deliver long-lasting moisture overnight, restoring softness and smoothing out dryness so you wake up with healthier-looking lips. The idea is that daytime balms may need frequent reapplication, but this one works while you rest to fix cracks, flaking or general dryness.
Main Ingredients:
- Vitamin E (Tocopheryl Acetate / Tocopherol) — antioxidant, helps protect lips from free radical damage and supports repair.
- Emollient oils/butters (likely plant oils, possibly sunflower, olive or other light oils) to soften and create a smooth base.
- Moisture-boosting agents/humectants, which draw water into the lips and help maintain hydration through the night.
- Protective waxes/occlusives to lock in moisture and shield lips from moisture loss during sleep (from air, low humidity, etc.).
Texture & Feel:
The texture is richer than a simple daytime balm — thicker and more indulgent, yet still spreadable. You’ll feel a comforting, almost cushion-like layer, not greasy but distinctly more substantial than your regular lip balm. On application, there’s a sense of immediate smoothness, with enough weight that it remains in place overnight. The scent is likely mild, possibly the characteristic Vitamin E range fragrance (gentle, clean).
Why it’s best:
This balm stands out because it combines repair + moisture locking. Overnight treatments have the advantage of uninterrupted time for the skin to heal, and this balm takes advantage of that by sealing in hydration and helping lip barrier repair. Also, because it works while you sleep, you can use it more sparingly during the day, and you’ll notice fewer dry patches, less flaking or discomfort in the morning. For those who suffer from very dry lips, this kind of overnight balm often makes a visible difference after just one or two nights.
Best for:
- Anyone whose lips get very dry by morning or suffers from flaking, chapping or cracking.
- Those who prefer a more pampering lip care step at night, rather than reapplying many times during the day.
- Users who don’t mind a slightly richer texture (if you dislike anything too heavy, test a small amount first).
- People wanting both moisture and protective repair, especially in dry climates or during cold/winter months.
💖The Body Shop Vitamin E Lip Care Overnight
A creamy overnight treatment that infuses lips with vitamin E and moisture-locking emollients so you wake up to soft, smooth lips.
How to Use Lip Balm for Maximum Benefit
Using a good lip balm is only half the battle; applying it correctly can make a huge difference in protecting your lips.
First, apply lip balm generously before heading outdoors. Don’t wait until your lips feel dry or uncomfortable — prevention is key. Reapply every couple of hours, especially after eating, drinking, or wiping your mouth. If you plan to spend a lot of time outside, a balm with SPF is essential.
At night, use a thicker balm or an overnight lip mask like the Laneige Lip Sleeping Mask to allow deep hydration and repair. Before applying balm, gently exfoliate your lips once or twice a week with a soft lip scrub or a damp, soft toothbrush. This removes flaky, dead skin and allows the balm to absorb better.
Avoid licking your lips — it may feel soothing temporarily, but saliva evaporates quickly, leaving lips drier than before.
Lip Balm Comparison Table: Ingredients, Texture, and Performance
| Product | Texture / Type | Key Ingredients / Features | Strengths for Dry Lips | Potential Drawbacks | Best Use Scenario |
| Vaseline Original Petroleum Jelly | Excellent barrier to lock in moisture | 100% petroleum jelly | Use as a top coat or overnight seal | No active hydrating ingredients; thick and greasy | Use as a top coat or overnight seal other hydrating balm |
| Eucerin Dry Skin Intensive Lip Balm | Rich balm, medicinal | Medicated cream/balm | Hydrates and soothes; helps with cracking and irritation | Slightly thicker texture; may need frequent reapplication in severe dryness | Use during the day when lips are very chapped or inflamed |
| Burt’s Bees Beeswax Lip Balm | Wax-based stick | Beeswax, plant oils, minimal ingredients | Lightweight but effective | Doesn’t last as long in harsh conditions | Great for layering or daytime reapplication |
| Carmex Original Lip Balm | Lighter hydration | Menthol, camphor, petrolatum | Cools irritation, gives relief to very dry lips | Can sting the lips ; more odour | Best when lips feel hot, inflamed or stung |
| Nuxe Rêve de Miel Lip Balm | Rich, honey-textured balm | Honey, plant oils, waxes | Deep nourishment, comforting texture | Can feel heavy | Use overnight or as a deeply restorative balm |
| Dr. Paw Paw Original Balm | Multi-purpose balm | Papaya + medicinal base | Multi-use (lips, cuticles, minor scrapes) | Ultra-rich balm | Use as a light everyday balm |
| The Body Shop Vitamin E Lip Care | Creamy stick | Vitamin E, emollients | Lightweight care | Not enough for severe chapping or overnight repair | Use during the day |
| Laneige Lip Sleeping Mask | Ultra-rich balm | Deep moisturisation | Deep overnight hydration and repair | More expensive | Apply before sleep |
| Apivita Lip Care Cocoa Butter SPF20 | Rich wax-and-butter stick | Cocoa Butter, Beeswax, Bisabolol | Ideal when you want mild protection and moisture without a heavy feel. | Might not be thick enough for extremely cracked lips overnight | Daytime outdoor use, as a protective balm before sun exposure |
Final Thoughts
Taking care of your lips during dry, windy weather doesn’t have to be complicated. Choosing the right lip balm — one rich in nourishing, protective ingredients — and using it properly will keep your lips feeling soft, hydrated, and healthy no matter the season. Remember, your lips are delicate and deserve special attention, especially when the elements are against you. Invest in a quality balm and follow simple care habits to enjoy smooth, kissable lips all year long.
Why do some lip balms make my lips worse?
Some lip balms contain irritants such as menthol, camphor, or heavy fragrances that can worsen dryness. Overuse of balms with drying alcohols can also cause a rebound effect.
Is petroleum jelly safe for lips?
Yes, petroleum jelly is a highly effective occlusive that seals in moisture and protects lips from wind and cold.
How do I prevent lip balm from pilling or flaking?
Apply a thin, even layer and avoid layering incompatible products on top. Exfoliating lips gently once a week can also help.
Bear in mind that some of the links in this post are affiliate links and if you go through them to make a purchase I will earn a commission. Keep in mind that I link these companies and their products because of their quality and not because of the commission I receive from your purchases. The decision is yours, and whether or not you decide to buy something is completely up to you.
