Image: MomJunction Design Team
Not everyone can carry off a dark lip in style. Some have naturally dark lips, while others may end up with dark lips due to their lifestyle. The best lip balms for dark lips let you provide nourishment in addition to providing gloss and style.
Lip balms can help you slowly reduce the darkness, but you will have to supplement it with a healthy diet too. We have rounded up the best balms effective for dark lips in this post.
Top Picks
23 Best Lip Balms For Dark Lips
1. Best For Damaged Lips: Naturistick 8 Pack Lip Balm Gift Set
One of the best lip balms to lighten dark lips, the Naturistick lip balm is available in four natural flavors and is made of 100% beeswax, an ingredient trusted by customers, and over ten natural and skin-loving ingredients. It protects your lips from the harsh sun rays and prevents the darkening of the lips.
Pros
- Free of petroleum, gluten, parabens, and other harsh chemicals
- Safe for adults and children across ages
- Comes with four naturally soothing flavors—peppermint, pomegranate, vanilla, and green tea
- Ideal for healing dry, chapped, or damaged lips
Cons
- May require frequent reapplications
- May leave behind a white film
"With its extensive range of flavors and scents, it has something for everyone in the family. It's moisturizing quality is undeniable, an the natural ingredients offer peace of mind."
Caution2. Best Natural: ArtNaturals Natural Lip Balm Beeswax
The ArtNaturals lip balm is made of all-natural and top-notch ingredients and is enriched with antioxidants and vitamins to heal and deeply hydrate the lips. It is an easy-to-carry lip balm and is free of any harmful chemicals. The balm comes in six flavors—island coconut, passion pitaya, mango papaya, hibiscus blossom, grapefruit tonic, and eucalyptus mint.
Pros
- Combines jojoba, coconut, and sunflower seed oils with natural beeswax to moisturize the lips
- Free of paraben and gluten
- Cruelty-free
- Suitable for all skin types
Cons
- May have waxy feel
- May not work for extremely dry lips
"I'm impressed with the options in this set. The beeswax formula has a lovely feel, and the flavor lingers. Plus, the natural oils enhance the benefits of the lip balms, providing more nourishment and hydration. I also like that they don't add any color to my lips."
3. Best For Chapped Lips: Ancient Greek Remedy Natural Lip Balm
The Ancient Greek Remedy natural lip balm is nourishing and hydrating, with a long-lasting formula that provides protection and moisturization to dry, chapped, and cracked lips. Made with tried-and-tested natural substances such as olive oil, beeswax, and honey extracts, it is gentle, non-toxic, and safe for all skin types.This balm has a subtle, natural scent and flavor and can be used as a daily lip care routine for soft and supple lips.
Pros
- Can be used as a lip primer
- Provides a smooth finish
- Promotes healthy-looking lips
- Contains antioxidants
Cons
- Consistency may be thick
- May not be as long-lasting as others
"I’ve been enveloping my lips with this range of lip balms, and it's been a delightful experience overall. It applies smoothly without feeling sticky! The thoughtful tube design saves it from summer meltdowns, and the burst of natural ingredients is a definite plus."
Naturistick 8 Pack Lip Balm Gift Set Best For Damaged Lips | ArtNaturals Natural Lip Balm Beeswax Best Natural | Ancient Greek Remedy Natural Lip Balm Best For Chapped Lips | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Color | Assorted | Natural | Orange,Red,Rose |
| Skin Type | Sensitive | Dry | Dry |
| Dimensions | 0.6 x 0.6 x 2.63 inches | 4 x 1 x 3 inches | - |
| Weight | 2.89 Ounces | 0.64 Ounces | - |
| Rating | |||
| Reviews | 20,597 | 9,204 | 121 |
| Price | $9.99 | $11.95 | $18.99 |
4. Best Soothing: Hanalei Lip Treatment
The lip treatment comes with the goodness of premium ingredients, including Hawaiian kukui nut oil, agave nectar, grape seed oil, and shea butter. This cruelty-free and paraben-free formulation provides enhanced lip hydration for dark and uneven lips, leaving them soft and silky after a few uses. The tube comes in a travel-friendly pack for convenient use and helps your lips by protecting from free radicals and dryness.
Pros
- Clear formula
- Enriching island botanical ingredients
- Soothing treatment
- Restores cracked lips and prevents chapping
Cons
- May not be suitable for oily lips
- Might require the use of a lip scrub before use
"After trying several lip treatments, this product has become my trusted choice for its effectiveness. It moisturizes the lips well and absorbs quickly. I've also been using it as an overnight lip mask and am impressed with the results."
5. Best For Sensitive Lips: Sky Organics Organic Tinted Lip Balm
Sky Organics lip balm offers protection for the most sensitive lips. Made of non-toxic, organic raw materials, it is completely safe to use and heals chapped and dark lips naturally. This lip balm for dark lips features a breakthrough formula made of organic castor oil, organic beeswax, organic cocoa butter, and other nourishing ingredients that keep the skin moisturized and healthy. Here’s an in-depth review video to help you understand the lip product better from an online tester’s experience.
Pros
- Comes in four shades, namely shimmer, champagne, plum, and raisin
- Available in peppermint vanilla, plum, and raisins flavors
- Free of gluten, soy, and non-toxic ingredients
- Treats dry, chapped lips and doubles as a lip tint
- Has a smooth, buttery texture
Cons
- Some may experience a tingly sensation
- May need frequent re-application
"This pack of tinted lip balms impresses with their primarily organic ingredients. The subtle tints complement my no-makeup makeup look. While the consistency varies, its moisturizing benefits and slight shimmer make them my favorite."
6. Best For Dry Lips: Burt’s Bees 100% Natural Origin Moisturizing Lip Balm
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
It's no wonder that this quality product has earned over 74,297 positive reviews on Amazon.
The Burt’s Bees lip balm for treating dry and dark lips is a refreshing product with minty freshness. It is enriched with 100% natural and potent ingredients. The softening balm’s key ingredients include beeswax, vitamin E, and peppermint oil, which help provide visible results.
Pros
- Offers moisturizing care
- Glides on smoothly and helps heal dry lips
- Free of parabens, phthalates, petrolatum, and SLS
- Has a pleasant fragrance
Cons
- May not heal chapped, scaly lips
"I love this lip balm and has been using it for years. The peppermint-based formula delivers a cooling sensation and soothes chapped lips, and the unobtrusive scent is a bonus."
7. Best For Everyday Use: Burts Bees 100% Natural Tinted Lip Balm
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
This product is a hit with users, evidenced by the 14,056 fine reviews on Amazon.
Just one stroke of this 100% natural and hydrating balm for dark lips can provide a long-lasting moisturizing effect. The natural ingredients used for formulating this lip balm helps in getting rid of dark lips, while adding plumpness to your lips and adding to their timeless beauty. It is available in six different shades, namely zinnia, pink blossom, hibiscus, rose, red dahlia, and sweet violet. This detailed review video gives you more information about the lip product.
Pros
- Has a hint of red color with red dahlia tint for everyday use
- Shea butter and botanical waxes help hydrate and smoothen dry lips
- Offers a sheer finish and light coverage for natural-looking lips
- Formulated with no parabens, phthalates, petrolatum, and SLS
- Buildable color
- Easy to apply and feels super comfortable on the lips
Cons
- May feel bit greasy
- Color may not last long
"This tinted lip balm has become my go-to for those days when I like to keep it subtle with only light makeup. It blends effortlessly and moisturizes intensely. While it lacks the staying power of lipstick, it is ideal for that minimal look."
RememberAvoid wiping your lips frequently, as this may weaken the natural protective layer on the lips. Also, make sure to wipe off the lip balm before eating and drinking to reduce the chances of ingesting harmful mineral oils (2).
8. Best For Moisturization: Vaseline Lip Therapy
The Lip Therapy balm by Vaseline, a tried-and-tested brand, helps treat chapped lips and reduces pigmentation on regular usage. It offers long-lasting moisturization to keep your lips soft and hydrated. Made with petrolatum and cocoa seed butter, it helps keep your lips healthy and moist.
Pros
- Adds a natural, glossy shine
- Nice fragrance
- Long-lasting
- Travel-friendly
- Available in many flavors
Cons
- Consistency may be thicker than expected
- Quantity may not be sufficient for some
"This product is a delightful multitasker! It's been effective in eliminating dryness from my lips and hands, and the fragrant flavor is not overwhelming. It is compact and handy for on-the-go use, but I wish the application process was easier."
9. Best For Treating Sunburns: Dr. Dans CortiBalm Lip Balm
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
More than 4,793 independent reviewers on Amazon have acknowledged the product's durability and functionality.
Dr. Dans CortiBalm’s lip balm’s key ingredient is 1% hydrocortisone, which helps treat chapped lips and dark lips caused by sunburns, medications, etc. It is perfect for chemotherapy patients and people with allergies and sensitive skin and is proven to deliver visible results. This lip balm is a blend of beeswax, petroleum jelly, mineral oil, and hydrocortisone, providing enhanced lip care for dark lips.
Pros
- Reduces inflammation caused by cold sores
- Hypoallergenic and dermatologist-tested lip balm
- Cruelty-free and made without gluten
- Nourishes and smoothen the lips
Cons
- May have a medicinal smell
- Has hydrocortisone, which is a steroid
"I found this lip balm while searching for a hydrating option for my severely chapped lips, and it didn't disappoint. The moisturizing effect lasts long, and I am pleased with its healing benefits. Besides its slightly waxy texture, it is a remarkable product."
10. Best For Pre-Teen Girls: Project Mc2 Create Your Own Lip Balm
The Project Mc2 allows you to mix and create your own lip balm with creativity. You can choose from four different flavors, add shimmer or shine, and use it to treat dry or dark lips. It makes an ideal gift for pre-teen girls. It is available in natural fruity flavors and can be used to create a multi-layer lip balm. Kit includes a wax base, a bag of wax beads, a measuring spoon, a spatula, six sticker labels, five lip balm containers, four flavors, and one lip shimmer.
Pros
- Allows you to personalize the lip balm with labels and stickers
- Helps reduce darkness of the lips with the perfect blend of natural ingredients
- Allows to create single or multiple layers of lip balm
- Easy and simple instructions
Cons
- Melting may take longer time
- Boiling water technique not suitable for kids
"I love engaging in DIY projects with the kids, and this one is quite innovative. While it was pretty easy for my older child, my younger daughter needed a little help, especially with the wax-melting step. Moreover, I'm happy with the quality of the ingredients, and the flavors are a delight!"
11. Best For Sunburn Protection: Neutrogena Revitalizing And Moisturizing Tinted Lip Balm
The Neutrogena revitalizing and moisturizing lip balm has SPF 20 sunscreen to protect your lips against sunburn and reduce dark pigmentation, making it one of the best lip balms with SPF for dark lips. It is formulated with Ion2Complex that adds moisture and makes lips softer and healthier, providing restorative care.
Pros
- Improves lip texture with just one week of use
- Has a lightly tinted shade to give a bit of shine and gloss to your lips
- Lessens the effect of sunburns and adds a subtle tint
- Available in different shades
Cons
- May not wear long
- May have a sticky consistency
"This tinted lip balm has become a part of my daily routine with its delightful sheer tint and hydration. It adds a natural flush to my lips, and the SPF protection is a bonus. It does require reapplication, but I’m content with its performance."
12. Best Sweat-Resistant: Supergoop! Play Lip Balm
The Supergoop! Play lip balm is a one-stop solution for your lip nourishment and protection needs. It protects your sensitive lips from sunburn and prevents premature aging of lips. This lip balm contains honey, shea butter, acai extracts, and sunflower seed oil that lock in hydration and deeply nourish the lips. Its professional-grade sweat- and water-resistant formula is suitable for a day out on the beach or active days.
Pros
- Fast-absorbing and lightweight formula
- Suitable for sensitive skin
- Reef-friendly and cruelty-free
- Suitable for everyday use
Cons
- May have an unpleasant taste
- May have a waxy consistency
"This lip balm is my reliable companion, keeping my lips nourished in my busy schedule. It has a pleasing texture, and the protective qualities–even from sun damage–are commendable."
13. Best Hydrating: Jane Iredale LipDrink Lip Balm
The Jane Iredale high-performance lip balm keeps your lips protected from chapping and darkening, as it is enriched with the goodness of a variety of waxes and Oils to offer your lips long-lasting hydration and sun protection. This scientifically formulated product also contains broad-spectrum SPF 15 sunscreen, making it the ideal lip treatment for dark and discolored lips.
Pros
- Antioxidant-rich balm acts as a protective shield
- Refreshing lemon flavor
- Hypoallergenic and non-comedogenic
- Dermatologist-recommended
Cons
- May not last long
- May leave a white cast
"I got this lip balm for its natural shades; its understated yet polished look and the refreshing scent are a plus. My lips feel softer and more hydrated since using this product. Plus, the sun protection factor makes it even better!"
14. Best With Uv Protection:Banana Boat Sport SPF 50 Sunscreen Lip Balm
Banana Boat Sport Performance lip balm with SPF 50 is efficient in improving lip texture and offers maximum protection from sun damage. This lip repair balm for dark and pigmented lips lasts long and gradually helps in lightening and brightening dark lips. It offers three-way UV protection with AvoTriplex technology that helps protect lips from sunburn.
Pros
- Resistant to water for up to 80 minutes
- Prevents the lips from drying and chapping
- Moisturizing effect lasts long
- Has a creamy texture
Cons
- Might fall apart because of its creamy consistency
- Might feel a tad sticky
"This SPF lip balm has become an essential part of my travel kit. Its ability to protect my lips from sun damage is noteworthy. Thanks to its water-resistant formula, I can engage in all my favorite water activities. Overall, it has been a worthwhile buy."
Quick Tip15. Best For Hydrating Lips:Labello Classic Care Lip Balm
Labello is a classic lip balm that hydrates lips and keeps them healthy. The hydrating lip balm is known to keep the lips soft and prevent scaling. It is formulated with shea butter and panthenol and is considered one of the best lip balms to lighten dark lips.
Pros
- Keeps the lips moisturized for up to 12 hours
- Natural ingredients help reduce darkness of lips
- Protects the skin from UV rays
- Mineral-oil free
Cons
- May have a waxy consistency
"My mother and I have been using this lip balm for several months, and we are pleased with it. It has a mild scent, and the finish feels comfortable on the lips. I find its moisture retention benefits noteworthy."
16. Best For Daily Routine:eos Medicated Lip Balm
The professional eos medicated lip balm is formulated with natural ingredients like shea butter and mint extracts to improve lip health and provide instant cooling and pain relief from cracked and dehydrated lips. It helps treat cold sores and fever blisters while providing instant moisturization and intensive care. This lip balm could be a suitable addition to your daily skincare routine with its healing and moisturizing capabilities.
Pros
- Paraben- and phthalate-free
- Hypoallergenic
- Clinically tested
- Provides 24-hour moisturization
- Gluten-free
Cons
- May have a watery consistency
- May have a peculiar scent
"I've found this lightweight lip treatment quite soothing for my chapped lips. It offers a gentle cooling sensation, and its moisturizing effect lasts throughout the night. While it does leave some residue, it is a minor inconvenience."
17. Best Nourishing:Naturium Phyto-Glow Lip Balm
The Naturium Phyto-Glow lip balm features an advanced formula that is made with natural plant-derived ingredients like shea, phyto-derived esters, plant squalane, and cupuacu butter that provide nourishment and hydration to the lips and leaves a glossy and lustrous finish. This tinted, vanilla-flavored lip balm is an appropriate option to provide essential nourishment and care to your lip’s delicate skin. In addition, it comes in a tube format to ensure expert application.
Pros
- Non-toxic and not tested on animals
- Vegan
- Safety-tested
- pH level-appropriate
- Suitable for dry skin
Cons
- Pigment may be mild for some
- Some may not like the applicator
"I love the glossy look it delivers with its thick consistency. It offers hydration with a slight tint that is just right for a natural look and doesn’t have any overpowering scent. It doesn't have that uncomfortable sticky feeling either."
18. Best For Sun Protection:Sun Bum Lip Balm
The Sun Bum lip balm comes with SPF 30 to protect your lips from sunburn and pomegranate flavor to keep your lips smelling fresh. It is enriched with the goodness of cocoa butter, aloe, and vitamin E (an ingredient that has shown clinically proven results), which help hydrate and moisturize chapped lips. This lip balm is an excellent product for people who live on the beach.
Pros
- Hypoallergenic formulation
- Gluten-free
- Cruelty-free
- Gradually lightens dark lips
- Available in different colors
Cons
- May spread around your lips
- May feel a bit greasy
"I’ve used several flavors of this lip balm and the pomegranate one has become my favorite. I love this product's vegan and cruelty-free ingredients. Plus, they offer SPF protection without leaving any annoying white cast."
19. Best Gentle:Mario Badescu Rose Lip Balm
The Mario Badescu rose lip balm softens and nourishes dry lips. It is gentle on the lips and enriches it with nutrients. This lip balm is expertly crafted with cocoa butter, almond oil, and antioxidant vitamin E to reduce dark lips and prevent them from drying.
Pros
- Has delicate rose fragrance
- Nutrients, dense butters, and moisturizing oils keep the lips healthy
- Balm melts on the lips
- Offers satin finish
Cons
- May need two or three layers for intense moisturization
- May not heal chapped lips
"Discovering this lip balm has been wonderful for my dry lips. The formula is pretty moisturizing without being greasy, lasting all day without added scent or taste. I've been applying it daily, and it has done well so far."
20. Best Flavours:eos Super Soft Shea Stick Lip Balm
eos Super Soft Shea Stick Lip Balm contains shea butter and natural oils that help to seal the moisture and keep the lips hydrated. It is derma-tested and hypoallergenic. The balm is infused with shea butter, coconut oil, and jojoba seed oil to offer the right hydration level for a picture-perfect pout. This balm comes with juicy flavors like strawberry, peach, passion fruit, and pineapple extracts, making it a natural choice for many women.
Pros
- Helps reduce darkening of the lips
- Suitable for sensitive lips
- Free of parabens, phthalates, and gluten
- PETA certified, cruelty-free
Cons
- May require frequent reapplication
- May melt quicker
"These lip balms have found a worthy spot in my self care routine. The hydrating formula is a real treat for my often dry lips, and the flavors and scents are delightful."
21. Best Moisturising:La La Lips Hemp Lip Balm
The La La Lips hemp-infused lip balm features compact packaging making it suitable to carry on the go. Its key ingredients include avocado fruit oil, castor seed oil, yellow wax, jojoba seed oil, shea oil, hemp, and other essential oils that deeply hydrate and improve the appearance of the lips. The lip product is enriched with essential vitamins and fatty acids that help heal chipped and cracked lips and provide moisturization.
Pros
- No harsh chemicals
- Non-GMO
- Gluten-free
- Soothing and hydrating
- Anti-inflammatory
- Suitable for dry skin
Cons
- May have a waxy consistency
- May need reapplication
"This balm has been my constant companion in the face of this chilling weather and relentless dryness. While its taste is not my favorite, it delights with its subtle tint and hydration effect."
22. Best Hemp-Infused:Kind Lips Organic Lip Balm Set
The Kind Lips Organic lip balm is made with 100% organic ingredients to give the best nourishment to the lips. It is free of parabens and other harmful chemicals.
Pros
- Natural ingredients help maintain moisture levels
- Protects the lips from sunburn
- Olive oil and shea butter help reduce darkness
- Makes lips soft and luscious
Cons
- Some may not like its scent
- May not heal extremely chapped lips
"I have recently switched to this lip balm, and I'm pleased with its creamy texture. While its moisture content isn't enough for harsh winters, it works well for the rest of the year. The scent is also delightful despite being subtle, which I like!"
23. Best Replenishing:Drunk Elephant Lippe Balm
Drunk Elephant Lippe Balm has been enriched with natural ingredients to give you delicate lips and to make your lips look younger and plump again. It helps reduce dark lips and keeps the lips hydrated for long. It has a blend of avocado, mongongo, marula oils to replenish the lips and get rid of darkness.The balm is enriched with a rare combination of peptides and sea fern algae to plump up the lips and improve their appearance.
Pros
- Adds definition to the lip lines
- Suitable for sensitive lips
- Cruelty-free
- Soften your lips
Cons
- May not work for chapped lips
- Some may find the lip balm smaller than expected
"This lip balm offers excellent value with its ability to combat severe lip dryness and protect my lips in this harsh winter weather. It is moisturizing and has a pleasant and subtle sweetness."
How To Choose The Right Lip Balms For Dark Lips?
Here are some factors to consider when choosing the right lip balms for dark lips.
- Hydration: Choose lip balms that are scientifically formulated with natural beeswax, cocoa butter, fruit extracts, and organic oils, including castor, sunflower seed, coconut, or clean ingredients that are clinically tested to keep your lips supple and moisturized throughout the winter.
- Sun protection: If you want to prevent your lips from becoming darker, choose lip balms with SPF protection for proven efficacy to block harmful UV rays.
- Ingredients: Pick lip balms devoid of parabens, sulfates, synthetic fragrances, mineral oils, and other harsh ingredients. They should be free of drying agents and preservatives to keep your lips healthy. Don’t forget to do cursory research on ingredients that are unfamiliar to you. Pick balms that are formulated with potent ingredients that are lab-tested and clinically proven. Opting for lip balms validated by leading dermatologists or skincare experts can be a safe option.
- Preference: You can choose between colored and clear formula and matte or gloss finish according to your requirements. Moreover, lip balms are available in various fruity flavors to suit your taste.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What ingredients are used in lip balms to treat dark lips?
Coconut oil, beeswax, shea butter, almond oil, and strawberry extract are a few ingredients that help minimize the appearance of the dark lips. However, the actual effectiveness of these ingredients remains unexplored.
2. Can a lip balm remove darkness of the lips?
Yes, to some extent, because a lip balm can lighten the appearance of and hydrate the lips. It can also prevent the lips from becoming dark further.
3. Which lip balm makes lips pink?
Lip balms formulated with pomegranate or raspberry juice can make the lips appear pink. However, the result may only be temporary.
4. Is it okay to use lip balm every day?
Yes, it is, because lip balm nourishes and moisturizes the lips. In fact, AAD suggests applying lip balm every day if you have dry lips (1).
5. Is lip balm better than vaseline for dark lips?
Vaseline is a petroleum jelly formulation whose moisturizing benefits are proven through rigorous testing. However, it can only deal with skin dryness. Whereas, lip balms meant for exfoliation or lip balms formulated with skin-lightening ingredients can help in eliminating dark lips.
6. Is coconut oil best for curing dark lips?
Coconut oil is considered as a natural remedy for minimizing darkness of the lips. Applying this oil regularly can prevent dryness, reduce dark spots, and keep the lips soft. However, the effectiveness is uninvestigated.
7. Will lip balm really cure dark lips due to smoking?
A lip balm can only minimize the appearance of dark lips due to smoking. You should consult a dermatologist to lighten the lips permanently if you smoke.
Why Trust MomJunction?
Poulami Nag is an aficionado of all things fashion, beauty, and personal care. Her review process involves an in-depth understanding of each product, so she can find the best ones in each category to recommend to her readers. In this article, she highlights the best lip balms for dark lips that can make you look uber chic. These lip balms are selected based on unbiased reviews and are high-quality, nourishing, and safe.
The Bottom Line
Dark lips can be a result of suntan, underlying health issues, dehydration, and several other reasons. To keep your lips hydrated and protected from the sun, choose the best lip balms for dark lips that are free of harsh chemicals and contain nourishing ingredients. You may also choose one that adds a little shine and color to your lips for a subtle makeup look and moisturizes your lips to prevent chapped, dry lips. Our top picks are the Naturistick 8 Pack Lip Balm Gift Set for its interesting and soothing flavors, the Burt’s Bees 100% Natural Origin Moisturizing Lip Balm with natural ingredients, and the travel-friendly Vaseline Lip Therapy that offers intense hydration. Choose a quality lip balm from this list and patch-test it before using it to avoid allergic reactions.
Infographic: How To Take Care Of Your Lips?
Did you know that apart from certain medications, diseases, and sometimes genetics, neglecting to care for your lips can also increase the risk of developing darker lips? Therefore, check out the following infographic to learn how to care for your lips to keep them healthy and moisturized.
Illustration: Momjunction Design Team
References
- 7 DERMATOLOGISTS’ TIPS FOR HEALING DRY, CHAPPED LIPS
https://www.aad.org/public/everyday-care/skin-care-basics/dry/heal-dry-chapped-lips - Trivia on Lip Balm
https://www.consumer.org.hk/en/shopping-guide/trivia/2020-trivia-lip-balm
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