Dry lips this winter?
We’ve got you. Winter air, office heating, and wind chill can strip your lips of all moisture. But not all lip balms deserve space in your handbag. We’ve handpicked ten of our winners that are affordable, effective, and versatile.
No filler, no fluff - just straight-up lip care.
1. Vaseline Lip Therapy Original Stick
Price Point: Under $10
Why We Love It: It’s the OG. Vaseline seals in moisture, repairs cracks, and softens even the driest lips.
Hot Tip: Swipe a thick layer before bed for an overnight lip mask.
Insider Secret: Vaseline doubles as a brow tamer or cuticle softener. Swipe on dry elbows or knuckles in a pinch.
Pro Tip: Apply over matte lipstick to turn it into a hydrating gloss.
2. Sun Bum SPF 15 Sunscreen Lip Balm – Mango
Price Point: Under $10
Why We Love It: This balm fights sun damage and winter dryness. Aloe and Vitamin E keep lips plump, while SPF 15 protects even on cloudy days.
Hot Tip: Perfect for outdoor workouts or brunch in the sun—yes, UV rays still hit in winter.
Insider Secret: The scent alone feels like a tropical holiday, boosting your mood on cold, grey days.
Pro Tip: Layer under bold lip colours to prevent flaking and sunburn.
3. Covergirl Exhibitionist Lip Gloss – Pixie 190
Price Point: Under $15
Why We Love It: While not a traditional balm, this gloss delivers instant moisture with a high-shine finish. Enriched with conditioning ingredients, it’s perfect for keeping lips looking hydrated and plump.
Hot Tip: Apply alone for a fresh, glossy look or layer over your favourite lip balm for extra hydration.
Insider Secret: Gloss reflects light, making lips appear fuller—perfect for photos or nights out.
Pro Tip: Dab a little on the centre of your bottom lip after applying lipstick to create a plumping effect without fillers.
4. BONDI SANDS Vitamin E Lip Balm – Toasted Coconut
Price Point: Under $10
Why We Love It: Aussie-made with Vitamin E and SPF 50+. The coconut scent feels like a mini beach escape.
Hot Tip: Perfect under your favourite matte lipstick for an extra moisture boost.
Insider Secret: This formula is lightweight enough for daily wear but tough enough for windburn protection.
Pro Tip: Store it in the fridge for a cooling effect on inflamed or cracked lips.
5. Chupa Chups Strawberry Swirl Lip Balm
Price Point: Under $5
Why We Love It: Fun, nostalgic, and seriously hydrating. Castor oil and beeswax work overtime to lock in moisture.
Hot Tip: Apply before bed for overnight conditioning.
Insider Secret: Adds a soft pink sheen—great for no-makeup days.
Pro Tip: Throw it in your festival bag. Hydration + hint of colour = perfect day-to-night balm.
6. Chupa Chups Orange Pop Lip Balm
Price Point: Under $5
Why We Love It: Zesty, citrus scent with a non-sticky finish. Great alternative if you’re over sweet scents.
Hot Tip: Use on dry cuticles or knuckles in emergency hydration situations.
Insider Secret: Doesn’t just sit on top of your lips—actually soaks in.
Pro Tip: Dot a little on eyelids or cheekbones for a dewy finish.
7. Antipodes Moisture-Boost Natural Lipstick – West Coast Sunset
Price Point: Under $20
Why We Love It: It’s skincare in lipstick form. Loaded with avocado and evening primrose oils.
Hot Tip: Great for those days when you want colour and hydration.
Insider Secret: Works as a creamy blush in a pinch. Dab and blend.
Pro Tip: Layer over clear balm for added depth and shine.
8. Dove Nourishing Lip Care Hydro Lip Balm
Price Point: Under $10
Why We Love It: Dove’s Hydro Lip Balm delivers intense hydration without feeling greasy. Formulated with caring oils and lip-loving moisturisers, it leaves lips soft and smooth all day.
Hot Tip: Great for sensitive lips or those prone to irritation—its fragrance-free, gentle formula won’t sting or overcoat.
Insider Secret: Use it as a lip primer before applying lipstick to prevent feathering or patchiness.
Pro Tip: Apply a thin layer before bed, then layer on a thicker coat for overnight hydration without mess.
9. Multi-Tasker Combo – Sun Bum + Revlon Kiss Balm
Why We Love It: Start your day with Sun Bum for UV protection, then switch to Revlon for a pop of colour.
Hot Tip: This combo is great for road trips or weekend getaways. One protects, the other prettifies.
Insider Secret: Switching products keeps your lips adapting to different formulas—preventing build-up or overuse of a single ingredient.
Pro Tip: Alternate throughout the day based on your activity—SPF outside, colour indoors.
10. The Desk-to-Date Night Duo – Vaseline + Antipodes
Why We Love It: Vaseline preps and repairs during the day, Antipodes elevates your look for night.
Hot Tip: Layer Vaseline thickly in the morning to combat office aircon dryness, then swipe on Antipodes for after-work plans.
Insider Secret: This duo tackles dryness and delivers colour—without needing separate products for treatment and makeup.
Pro Tip: Keep both in your work drawer for on-the-fly glam.
Final Takeaway
Your lips don’t have to suffer this winter. From iconic classics like Vaseline to Aussie favourites like Bondi Sands, these picks deliver real hydration without the premium price tag.
Bonus Pro Routine:
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Exfoliate lips once a week with a gentle scrub.
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Apply a nourishing balm before bed.
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Use SPF balm every morning. Yes, even in winter.
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Layer with tinted balms for colour and hydration on the go.
Explore the full range now at Bella Scoop and build your winter lip care arsenal.