PROPOLINE
Not the most fetching of brand names, this claims to be a lip aid rather than a lip balm. A traditional lip balm, it sinks in quite quickly, and the camomile and olive oil formula certainly made my lips feel smoother. The packaging says: “SPF 15. Prevents sunburn. Apply liberally before sun exposure. Keep out of eyes.” You have been warned!
Available from: selected pharmacies
Price: £
MYPA ALOE VERA
This one claims to moisturise, regenerate, soothe and do everything except the dishes. It doesn’t. Although I like the fact it is SPF15, I found it thick and sticky. The 20 per cent aloe vera did make my lips softer, but I’d sooner wear a balaclava for protection. Not exactly top of my list.
Available from: selected pharmacies
Price: £2.10
KORRES
Is it a lip balm? Is it a lipstick? No it’s Korres tinted lip care, for “healthy and beautiful lips”. It claims to be packed with vitamins – can I skip my morning orange juice and lick my lips instead? This one not only softens and protects, but gives a slight colour to the lips as well. If you’re after an upmarket 2 in 1 product, this does the job well.
Available from: department stores
Price: £
LABELLO CLASSIC
Ah – the old classic. The logo of labello is “nobody kisses better” – my grandmother never used anything else, and she’s still getting smooched at 85, so there must be some truth in it! I do miss the little button to push the stick up – it’s all screw action now. Shame. But I do like Labello – it’s smooth to apply and softens the lips nicely, and like my grandmother, has aged gracefully.
Available from: Supermarkets and pharmacies
Price: £
L’OCCITANE
Like cashmere for lips, this was my favourite. Having tasted all seven lip balms (honestly, the things I do!) this was a clear winner. I could eat it with a spoon! The honey taste is divine and the shea butter nourishing – for the lips not the stomach. It also adds a gloss. In fact the only disadvantage is how much you’re going to need – I think I’m addicted!
Available from L’Occitane. Tel: 22 815151 or 22
Price: £5.99
GARNIER LIP COCOON
I do love Garnier products, and this was no disappointment. It glides on like silk and sinks in immediately. I was intrigued by the micro fruit oils it claims to contain – are there Garnier chemists out there crying: “Let’s make the watermelon really titchy this time”? I’ve had this one for six moths and I’m still getting kissed, so it must be doing some good!
Available from: department stores
Price: £2.30
EGO QV
This Aussie brand came highly recommended. It contains a broad spectrum sunscreen, and soothes, protects and moisturises. The packaging is about as far from glam as possible, but it clears up anything – cracked lips, chapped lips, sore lips – overnight. A miracle product. If your lips are as dry as a dead dingo’s donger, this is the one you need.
Available from: pharmacies
Price: £2.77
