The One Lip Balm You Should NEVER Use If Your Lips Are Already Chapped

“Sometimes these cause a tingling feeling when you apply them. They either cause irritation or remove outer layers of the skin. They’re an exfoliant," says Melissa Piliang, MD. "Then you have less protection, and you’re more susceptible to environmental factors, so you have to apply more product. Avoid lip balms that contain those ingredients.”

Dr. Piliang also says it's wise to be wary of lip balms that are scented and contain added flavors as they can also be very irritating and drying. 

“The chemicals in scents and added flavorings can irritate your skin or cause allergies,” she continues. “They dry out the skin and then it can feel more chapped.”

Are there any good lip balms out there? Dr. Piliang recommends opting for simple lip balms that have a petroleum base. Unlike the other lip balms mentioned, petroleum jelly-based lip balms keep the lips moist and lock in moisture to repair chapped lips and prevent them from chapping in the future. 

Dr. Piliang also says it's a good idea to invest in a lip balm that contains SPF, especially if you're going to be out in the sun for a prolonged period of time. "We do see skin cancer on the lips,” she says. “But nothing in lip balms causes cancer.” Choose formulas that have SPF30 or higher to ensure that your lips are protected. 

Keep scrolling to shop some dermatologist-approved lip balms for chapped lips: