Do you remember the moment you discovered that your favorite chapstick was actually making your lips drier? Yes, I’m talking about brands like Carmex and Blistex. Thankfully, the clean beauty movement has shed light on the harmful ingredients found in many mainstream lip care products. In this article, I’ll share effective natural alternatives that keep your lips beautifully hydrated, along with my top recommendations for the best natural lip balms available today.

*Affiliate Disclosure: This blog post contains affiliate links. If you purchase anything through my links, I earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. I carefully select partnerships with companies I truly believe in and support.

*Suzi(Gurl Gone Green) participates in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program that allows sites to earn fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com.

Identify and Avoid Toxic Ingredients in Lip Balm

• Petrolatum (petroleum jelly) – This ingredient gives a misleading sense of hydration. While it may feel moisturizing initially, it actually dehydrates lips over time. It forms a waterproof layer, which can trap bacteria and dead skin cells. Additionally, due to the oil refining process, petrolatum is often contaminated with 1,4-dioxane.
• Parabens – Commonly used as preservatives to inhibit bacterial growth, parabens (like butyl, propyl, and ethyl) can damage the skin barrier and are endocrine disruptors linked to serious health issues, including cancer.
• Fragrance – This term often conceals a wide range of harmful chemicals such as phthalates, known to disrupt hormones and potentially worsen respiratory conditions.
• Menthol and Phenol – These ingredients may provide a cooling sensation, but they can actually dry out lips and exfoliate the outer skin layer, which is not helpful for chapped lips.
• Artificial colors/dyes –Many dyes are derived from heavy metals or coal tar, posing additional health risks.
• Octinoxate and Oxybenzone –These hormone disruptors are found in some lip balms marketed with SPF protections.
• Butylated hydroxyanisole (BHA) and butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT) –These preservatives, while preventing mold and oxidation, can irritate the respiratory system and are linked to cancer.
• Alcohol –This ingredient is another dehydrating agent that exacerbates chapped lips.

For a deeper understanding of safe ingredients, consider using the EWG’s Skin Deep database to research and verify the contents of your lip balms.

Essential Ingredients to Seek in a Natural Lip Balm

• Beeswax – This natural ingredient effectively moisturizes and shields lips from harmful UV rays.
• Shea Butter –Renowned for its soothing and hydrating properties, it prevents lips from becoming chapped. It’s rich in fatty acids and antioxidants.
• Coconut Butter –Similar to shea butter, it is loaded with essential vitamins and nutrients, including A, B, C, D, E, iron, and magnesium.
• Coconut Oil –This ingredient acts as a protective barrier for lips and aids in the healing process.
• Vitamin E –This powerful vitamin helps enhance lip softness by boosting circulation and fostering new skin cell growth.

Explore the 7 Best Natural Lip Balms for Ultimate Hydration

Alpyn Beauty Willow & Sweet Agave Plumping Lip Mask

This TikTok-famous lip mask effectively softens, plumps, and hydrates using wildcrafted ingredients. It can be applied as an overnight mask or layered over/under lipstick, and is both vegan and cruelty-free.

---

Key Ingredients 

Hyaluronic Acid – This ingredient moisturizes and enhances fullness.

Sweet Agave Extract – Known for its skin-smoothing and hydrating qualities.

White Willow Bark – A gentle, natural softener.

Wild Chokecherry and Vitamin E – Provides antioxidant protection.

Cost – $28

Review

This is my go-to natural lip balm. It meets all my requirements: long-lasting and nourishing for my lips over time. I apply it nightly and wake up with smooth, soft lips. It’s also great for daytime use, keeping my lips hydrated and preventing peeling. Highly recommended!

Use code GURLGONEGREEN15 to save 15% off your order!

Related Content: Alpyn Beauty Review

Ilia Lip Wrap Reviving Balm

This renowned lip balm not only hydrates but also treats lips with wildcrafted ingredients. It can be used as an overnight mask or layered under lipstick, and is both vegan and cruelty-free.

---

Key Ingredients 

Salicornia – Helps increase hydration levels and replenish the moisture barrier.

Hyaluronic Acid – Acts as a moisture magnet, smoothing and plumping lips.

Prickly Pear Oil – Fortifies the moisture barrier.

Cost – $24

Review

This balm not only hydrates but also serves as a treatment for my lips. Its smooth application and tube design make it easy to use. While it’s not sticky, I did notice some dryness in the afternoon compared to other products. I prefer wearing it at night when it can work as a lip treatment.

Related Content: Ilia Beauty Review

Beauty By Earth Peppermint Lip Balm

This certified organic lip balm is a guilt-free choice for everyday use. It heals, hydrates, and protects your lips with natural ingredients. The company is also Leaping Bunny cruelty-free certified and practices sustainability.

---

Key Ingredients 

Organic Beeswax – Helps heal and protect the skin, locking in moisture.

Sunflower Seed Oil – Rich in Vitamin E, it acts as an antioxidant while protecting the skin’s natural barrier.

Cocoa Butter – Deeply moisturizes and maintains skin elasticity.

Peppermint – Soothes and cools the skin while providing antibacterial properties.

Rosemary Leaf Extract – Offers antioxidant and antifungal benefits.

Cost – $11.99 (4 pack)

Review

This budget-friendly lip balm is reminiscent of what many of us used during our childhood. It’s straightforward and effective, making it a great choice for those seeking simplicity at an affordable price. I adore the peppermint scent, and while my lips felt nourished, I found I needed to reapply in the afternoon. However, with a four-pack, you can keep one in various places for convenience—perfect for kids and teens!

Related Content: Beauty By Earth Review

Henne Luxury Lip Balm V2

This certified organic lip balm comes in a chic aluminum tube. For best results, apply a thick layer before bedtime to allow your lips to repair overnight. It’s also Leaping Bunny and cruelty-free certified.

---

Key Ingredients 

Coconut Oil – Contains essential fatty acids that support the skin’s barrier function.

Beeswax – Aids in healing and protecting the skin, sealing in moisture.

Avocado Oil – Rich in omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants Vitamins C and E, which nourish lips.

Shea Butter – Provides excellent moisturizing properties for cracked skin.

Cocoa Butter – Enhances skin moisture and elasticity.

Jojoba Seed Oil – Rich in fatty acids that hydrate and soothe the skin.

Vitamin E – Helps to soften lips by improving circulation and promoting new skin cell growth.

Cost – $19

Review

This luxury lip balm offers a clean alternative to conventional products. Its tube design allows for easy application, and it delivers lasting nourishment throughout the day without feeling heavy. It has no scent, which I appreciate, and its simple, effective ingredients make it a standout choice.

Three Ships Buttercream Hydrating Lip Mask

This lip mask offers intense hydration and creates a protective barrier to seal in moisture. It was awarded Cosmopolitan’s Holy Grail Beauty Award in 2022 and is both vegan and cruelty-free, as well as a certified B corporation.

---

Key Ingredients 

Sunflower Oil (23%) – Rich in fatty acids, it moisturizes and softens the skin.

Coconut Oil (10%) – Contains essential fatty acids that support the skin’s natural emollients.

Shea Butter (5%) – Excellent for treating cracked skin with its moisturizing properties.

Cost – $19

Review

This was the newest lip balm I tried. Initially, I was surprised by the strong scent, which is reminiscent of vanilla. While it moisturized my lips adequately, it may not be the best choice for chronic dryness. The texture is smooth and non-sticky, making it pleasant for everyday use, especially if you enjoy scented products.

Poppy & Pout Natural Lip Balm: A Fun and Hydrating Choice

This aesthetically pleasing lip balm provides serious moisture with 100% natural ingredients. It’s Leaping Bunny and cruelty-free certified and has been featured on Oprah’s Favorite Things List.

---

Key Ingredients 

Coconut Oil – Contains essential fatty acids that help replenish the skin’s barrier function.

Beeswax – Provides healing and protective benefits while locking in moisture.

Sunflower Oil – Rich in fatty acids, it moisturizes and softens the skin.

Cost – $9.95

Review

I discovered this lip balm on Amazon and couldn’t resist trying it. I opted for the Sweet Mint scent, and I found it to be a budget-friendly option that feels comparable to conventional products but comes with eco-friendly packaging. It’s a fantastic choice for teens or young adults, and I use it first thing in the morning for added moisture. Although I needed to reapply in the afternoon, my lips still felt soft,