Most read 20264 min read

Drugstore vs. premium lip balm: is the expensive one ever worth it?

Drugstore vs. premium lip balm: is the expensive one ever worth it?

Let’s address the elephant in the room: we cost more than a drugstore stick. So is it worth it? We’re biased, obviously. So here’s an honest breakdown of what you get for the extra few dollars, and when you really don’t need us.

By The Review Desk team
By The Review Desk team
Review desk · November 2026 · 4 min read
Sponsored by Honeybalm. Honeybalm is a cosmetic lip balm, not a medical treatment.
THE WHOLE STORY, IN ONE SENTENCE

A drugstore balm can do the job, but if you use lip balm every day, a balm you actually love is worth the upgrade, especially at 1+1 free.

1. What the drugstore gets right

What the drugstore gets right

Cheap, everywhere and they do the basics. We respect it.

Need a spare for the glovebox or a ski trip? A basic stick is totally fine. No judgment.

1+1free on ours right now, so the gap is smaller than you think

2. Where it cuts corners

Where it cuts corners

Tingly cooling agents that fake that “it’s working” feeling. Thin textures that vanish with your first coffee.

Which means more reapplying, and sometimes lips that feel drier once the tingle wears off.

Seriously cute. Seriously good. Seriously worth it.

Quick check. Tap what’s true for you.

3. The Honeyspoon, though

The Honeyspoon, though

Sticks drag. Tubes overdo it. Most pots need your finger.

Ours has a tiny spoon in the lid. Scoop, swipe, done. No fingers in the pot, ever.

1 swipewith the built-in Honeyspoon

4. You use what you love

You use what you love

Flavor, scent and a jar cute enough for your desk aren’t extras. They’re the reason you reach for it.

With 25+ flavors, there’s one you’ll actually look forward to.

See all 25+ flavors →
25+flavors, plus 10 limited editions

5. Ingredients you can pronounce

Ingredients you can pronounce

Comforting beeswax helps protect lips from feeling dry. Hive-born propolis brings a comforting touch.

Vitamin E leaves lips feeling beautifully conditioned. Short list, big feels.

3hero ingredients: beeswax, propolis and vitamin E

6. When you honestly don’t need us

When you honestly don’t need us

Only use lip balm once in a blue moon? Save your money.

But if it’s in your hand several times a day, that’s exactly where a little upgrade pays off.

30days of free returns, so trying us is low-risk

7. So, is premium worth it?

So, is premium worth it?

For your everyday balm? We’d say yes, but we would. So try it: 1+1 free, as many as you like.

Free shipping over $28 and free returns for 30 days. If it’s not worth it to you, send it back.

4.7stars from 15,000+ reviews
HONEYBALMBLACK FRIDAY OFFER IS STILL ACTIVE
Honeybalm Lip Balm

Honeybalm Lip Balm

Beeswax, propolis & vitamin E · 6.5 g · built-in Honeyspoon

★ 4.7 from 15,000+ reviews
  • 25+ flavors to collect, plus 10 limited editions this month.
  • 1+1 free on every lip balm, no limit.
  • Free shipping over $28 and FREE 30-day returns.
Grab your two →
Cruelty-freePocket-sizedNatural ingredients

Don’t take our word for it

Real reviews from Honeybalm customers.

★★★★★
HoneyChloe A.

“Honeybalm’s honey flavor is excellent. It provides great moisture and has a lovely, natural scent.”

Chloe A. · Verified
★★★★★
MULTIPLE FLAVORSLaura W.

“So I like these lip balms, NO! I LOVE THEM. I collect all flavors, and my collection is still incomplete :)”

Laura W. · Verified
★★★★★
GINGERBREAD (LIMITED EDITION)Alina Z.

“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!!”

Alina Z. · Verified
3hero ingredients: beeswax, propolis and vitamin E
25+flavors to collect, plus 10 limited editions
30days of free returns, so there’s nothing to lose
Go to Honeybalm →

Drugstore vs. us

Sticks drag. Jelly sits heavy and tastes like nothing. Here’s what a few extra dollars gets you.

HoneybalmTwist-up stickPetroleum 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 every swipe

Beeswax, propolis and vitamin E, a spoon in every lid and 25+ flavors. And right now, two for the price of one.

  • Beeswax, propolis & conditioning vitamin E
  • Free 30-day returns, free shipping over $28
  • 1+1 free on as many balms as you like
Find your flavor →
★ 4.7 · 15,000+ reviews700,000+ honeybees

Honeybalm is a cosmetic product. Individual experiences may vary.