A drugstore lip balm costs a few dollars. Premium balms cost more. So is the expensive one ever worth it? We looked at what you actually get for the extra money, and when the cheaper option is perfectly fine.
A basic drugstore balm can do the job, but a premium balm earns its price when the texture, ingredients and applicator make you want to use it every day.
Most budget balms are built on waxes and petroleum-based ingredients. They’re cheap, easy to find and they do provide a basic protective layer.
For a ski trip or a spare in the glovebox, that’s often enough. The trade-offs show up with daily use.
To keep costs down, many budget balms lean on cooling agents for that tingly “working” feel, or on thin textures that rub off quickly.
The result is more reapplying, and sometimes lips that feel drier once the tingle fades.
The best value lip balm is the one you actually enjoy using.
Quick check. Tap what’s true for you.
If you use lip balm daily, the difference in price per day is small, and the difference in how it feels isn’t. With 1+1 free right now, the gap gets even smaller.
See if it’s worth it →
Budget balms come as sticks or squeeze tubes. Premium pots used to mean dipping a finger in.
Honeybalm’s Honeyspoon solves that with an applicator built into the lid, so there are no fingertips in the balm.
Flavor, scent and how a product looks on your desk sound like luxuries. They’re actually what makes you reach for it.
A balm you enjoy gets used several times a day. A basic one often ends up forgotten in a pocket.
See all 25+ flavors →
Premium balms tend to use shorter, more considered ingredient lists.
Honeybalm is built around comforting beeswax, which helps protect lips from feeling dry, propolis for a comforting feel and conditioning vitamin E.
If you only need a balm occasionally, or you’re buying spares you’ll probably lose, a basic stick is fine.
Premium makes sense for the balm you use every day. That’s where texture and comfort matter most.
For an everyday balm, the extra cost buys a better texture, a cleaner way to apply and a product you look forward to using.
Right now Honeybalm is 1+1 free on as many balms as you like, which brings the price per jar down considerably.
Honeybalm Lip Balm
Beeswax, propolis & vitamin E · 6.5 g · built-in Honeyspoon
Real reviews from Honeybalm customers.
“Honeybalm’s honey flavor is excellent. It provides great moisture and has a lovely, natural scent.”
“So I like these lip balms, NO! I LOVE THEM. I collect all flavors, and my collection is still incomplete :)”
“Got this baby for my birthday and immediately fell in love! Especially with the cutest honeyspoon. Couldn't choose between all the flavors and ordered one of their kits.Love it!!”
A basic stick and a tub of jelly will do in a pinch. Here’s what the extra money gets you.
| Honeybalm | Twist-up stick | Petroleum jelly | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Built-in Honeyspoon applicator | |||
| 25+ collectible flavors | |||
| Comforting, cushiony layer | |||
| Cute enough to show off | |||
| Fits in every coat pocket | |||
| Beeswax, propolis & vitamin E |
Worth it for the balm you use every day
A comforting texture, three hero ingredients and a spoon in every lid. With 1+1 free, premium has never been easier to try.
Honeybalm is a cosmetic product. Individual experiences may vary.