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How Do I Choose the Best Colored Lip Balm?

Lainie Petersen
Lainie Petersen

When buying colored lip balm, consider the form in which it is sold, the ingredients used to make the product, and the color or colors that best suit your complexion. You should also consider the price of any colored lip balm that you choose, as lip balm is available in many different price ranges. Finally, pay attention to its consistency and how it actually feels on your lips.

Colored lip balm is available in several different forms, so it is a good idea to determine which form you prefer to use. Some lip balms are packaged in little pots into which you must dip your finger or come with a lip brush for application. Others are available in stick form and can be applied much as you would any other lipstick. Finally some lip balm is packaged in tubes with a smooth applicator end so that you can squeeze some lip balm out of the tube and onto the applicator, which you can then rub onto your lips. Many individuals have their own preferences with regard to the application of lip balm, so you should pick the method that best suits your needs.

Lip balm may double as a lip tint.
Lip balm may double as a lip tint.

Many people choose to use colored lip balm because they suffer from dry lips and need to use moisturizing ingredients to prevent and reduce chapping. In some cases, the dyes or even fragrances or flavors used in colored lip balm may actually be irritating to the lips. If you know of any ingredients that typically provoke an allergic reaction for you, be sure to read product labels and avoid products that contain those ingredients. You may also want to avoid scented or flavored lip balms if you are concerned about the flavor interfering with the flavor of any foods or drinks that you consume.

As a general rule, colored lip balm is usually very sheer and offers only a hint of color to your lips. Nonetheless, you will probably want to find a color that best suits your complexion, and you may even want to buy several colors to suit your mood or wardrobe. Some cosmetic companies even pack colored lip balms together so that you can have your choice of colors.

Ultimately, you want to make sure that you feel comfortable wearing a lip balm. If it feels too sticky, you may be inclined to block or lick it off, reducing its effectiveness. You may wish to try and find the lightest lip balm that is effective at keeping your lips from chapping, though you may also want to reserve a heavier balm for very cold, dry days and environments.

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    • Lip balm may double as a lip tint.
      By: Johanna Goodyear
      Lip balm may double as a lip tint.