The Lip Balms We’re Keeping Close Right Now
When days feel longer and hydration is not always consistent, lips tend to show it first. A good lip balm quickly becomes less of a nice extra and more of a daily essential. The formulas we reach for now are the ones that genuinely care for the lips while still looking polished enough for everyday wear.
The lip balms worth keeping close right now, offering real hydration, refined colour and long lasting nourishment.
What sets these apart is that they do more than add shine. They help support the lip barrier, smooth fine lines and restore comfort, all while offering subtle colour or gloss. Whether you prefer a sheer tint, a high shine finish or a treatment you can layer overnight, these are the balms worth having within reach.
Bobbi Brown Extra Lip Tinted Balm

A tinted balm that feels like genuine lip care, Bobbi Brown’s Extra Lip Tinted Balm combines nourishment with a soft wash of colour. Ceramides and conditioning ingredients help support the lip barrier while smoothing the look of fine lines. It melts in comfortably and keeps lips feeling supple for hours. With 15 shades available, each one adapts slightly to your natural tone for a subtle, nourishing finish.
Shop the Bobbi Brown Extra Lip Tinted Balm here!
The Ordinary Squalane + Amino Acids Lip Balm

If you prefer something uncomplicated, The Ordinary’s Squalane + Amino Acids Lip Balm focuses purely on hydration. Skin-identical amino acids and squalane work together to soften and replenish dryness without any added colour. It is clear, lightweight and practical, and can even be used on cuticles or other dry areas when needed.
Shop the The Ordinary Squalane + Amino Acids Lip Balm here!
Drunk Elephant Plump-C Tripeptide Lippe Mask

For a richer treatment, Drunk Elephant’s Plump-C Tripeptide Lippe Mask blends peptides, vitamin C and nourishing plant oils to improve smoothness and comfort. The texture feels cushioned but not heavy, making it suitable both under make-up and as an overnight layer. With regular use, lips appear softer and slightly fuller, with improved overall texture.
Shop the Drunk Elephant Plump-C Tripeptide Lippe Mask here!
Paula’s Choice Pro-Collagen PeptideGloss Balm in Plum Berry

Paula’s Choice brings a treatment approach to gloss with the Pro-Collagen PeptideGloss Balm in Plum Berry. Peptides help enhance the appearance of smoothness and gentle fullness, while the tint adds a flattering berry sheen.
Shop the Paula’s Choice Pro-Collagen PeptideGloss Balm in Plum Berry here!
Patrick Ta Major Moisture Smoothing Lip Balm

Balancing care and polish, Patrick Ta’s Major Moisture Smoothing Lip Balm offers a cushiony texture with a refined gloss finish. Peptides and bakuchiol support smoother looking lips over time, while the formula remains lightweight and wearable.
Shop the Patrick Ta Major Moisture Smoothing Lip Balm here!
Fresh Sugar Lip Treatment

A long-time favourite, Fresh’s Sugar Lip Treatment is known for its buttery texture and dependable hydration. Formulated with sugar and nourishing fruit oils, it keeps lips comfortable throughout the day.
Shop the Fresh Sugar Lip Treatment here!
Dior Addict Lip Glow Lip Balm

Few lip balms are as recognisable as Dior Addict Lip Glow. Designed to react with the lips’ pH, it creates a customised tint while delivering lasting moisture. The finish looks fresh and radiant rather than glossy, and with around 20 shades across different undertones.
Shop the Dior Addict Lip Glow Lip Balm here!
Glow Recipe Glass Balm

High shine meets hydration in Glow Recipe’s Glass Balm. Hyaluronic microspheres help attract moisture to smooth the look of lines, while antioxidant-rich fruit ingredients support lip health. Offered in a small range of sheer shades, it gives a juicy tint alongside its reflective finish.
Shop the Glow Recipe Glass Balm here!
Clarins Hydra-Essentiel Moisture Replenishing Lip Balm

When comfort is the priority, Clarins Hydra-Essentiel Moisture Replenishing Lip Balm focuses on restoring moisture and softness. Plant-based hyaluronic technology and nourishing extracts help replenish dry lips, leaving them smooth with a gentle, healthy looking sheen.
Shop the Clarins Hydra-Essentiel Moisture Replenishing Lip Balm here!
Fenty Skin Plush Puddin’ Intensive Recovery Lip Mask

For deeper care, Fenty Skin’s Plush Puddin’ Intensive Recovery Lip Mask coats lips in lasting hydration. Coconut and castor oils help lock in moisture, while antioxidant ingredients support a smoother, firmer appearance over time. Applied generously before bed, it leaves lips noticeably softer and more resilient by morning.
Shop the Fenty Skin Plush Puddin’ Intensive Recovery Lip Mask here!
Alisha Azuddin
The Beauty Director at Harper’s BAZAAR Malaysia, Alisha first set her sights on a career in sports journalism before pivoting to beauty during her university years—and she’s stayed in that lane ever since. While her love for sports remains strong (these days, purely from the stands), she’s found her true calling in the beauty and wellness space. Equal parts storyteller and trend spotter, she believes that a good lip combo and a great skincare routine can change more than just your mood.