Lip Balm Vs Lip Oil: Which Is Better For You?

WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN LIP BALM AND LIP OIL?

While both lip balms and lip oils provide hydration and long-term nourishment, they differ in their ingredients, textures, and specific purposes. Lip balms are primarily composed of waxes like beeswax or carnauba wax, combined with soothing emollients such as shea butter to lock in moisture and protect the lips from external elements like wind, rain and cold temperatures. Lip oils, on the other hand, are formulated with lightweight, hydrating oils such as argan, jojoba, and coconut oil, enriched with nourishing antioxidants like Vitamin E. They envelop the lips in a subtle tint of hint and a glossy sheen, delivering a sheer, natural look.

WHO ARE LIP BALMS MORE SUITABLE FOR

Lip balms are perfect for anyone who frequently suffers from dry, chapped or cracked lips. The combination of waxes and emollients works hard to help heal damaged skin, forming a rich, protective barrier that shields the lips against environmental factors – including hot temperatures, cold winds or dry environments – that can easily dehydrate them. The skin on our lips is very delicate and more susceptible to sun damage from UV rays so lip balms with added SPF help to prevent signs of premature ageing, such as fine lines and discolouration. An ideal go-to for everyday use, especially if you’re an outdoor enthusiast.

WHO ARE LIP OILS MORE SUITABLE FOR

Lips oils, in comparison, are non-greasy and deliver a burst of moisture directly to the lips without the heavy weight of some balms. They’re also little multitasking marvels, offering both nourishment and a splash of colour on their own or adding a glass-like shine when layered over lipstick—minus the sticky residue that often comes with glosses. If you struggle with sensitivity, lip oils will often rely on natural oils for hydration and contain fewer synthetic ingredients, which are gentler on the skin and less irritating.

THE BEST LIP BALMS

Glossier finally made its grand debut at Space NK this year, and with it came the much-loved Glossier Balm Dotcom Lip Balm, £16.00. Available in a selection of delicious flavours and sheer tints, there’s a Balm Dotcom to suit every mood and moment. The award-winning Summer Fridays Lip Butter Balm, £23.00 features a blend of plant-powered butters to keep lips happy, healthy and stronger, while Nars Afterglow Lip Balm, £26.50 adds a hint of gold shimmer. If you’re on the hunt for a heavy-duty, deeply hydrating treatment, Sisley-Paris Nutritive Lip Balm, £66.00 is packed with nourishing sunflower and hazelnut oils to bring a swift end to discomfort. Or, alternatively, the LANEIGE Lip Sleeping Mask, £15.75 repairs and regenerates skin as you dream for a soft, plumped pout by morning.

THE BEST LIP OILS

Here at Space NK, we have a treasure trove of lip oils to discover, but one of our stand-out gems is the Rare Beauty Soft Pinch Tinted Lip Oil, £20.00. This innovative gel-to-oil formulation cocoons the lips in sumptuous moisture and offers smooth, buildable colour. If you’re seeking a kiss of juicy colour, try Milk Makeup Odyssey Lip Oil Gloss, £24.00 or dip into Summer Fridays Dream Lip Oil, £26.00 for long-lasting comfort and an enhancing, liquid-like shimmer. Many lip oils are also powered by plumping agents such as peptides to create a more supple, fuller look to the lips such as the KOSAS Wet Lip Oil Gloss, £20.00 and the velvety-smooth Rodial Collagen Lip Oil, £29.00 – shade Cherry is a particular fan-favourite in the office!

THE VERDICT ON LIP BALM VS LIP OIL

Choosing between lip balm and lip oil depends largely on your specific needs and preferences. If you’re after an intensive treatment to combat dryness or harsh conditions, lip balm is your trusty companion, delivering deep, long-lasting moisture while creating a protective shield against the elements. On the other hand, lip oil is lightweight, with a nourishing feel that hydrates and leaves a lustrous, non-sticky shine. While lip oils may not have the healing power of a balm, they offer a radiant finish that’s perfect for those who love a fresh, everyday look with a hint of glow. Depending on the situation – or the season – you may find a place for both in your beauty routine!