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Beauty Box: Lip balms and lip protectors
Vaseline Lip Therapy, 99p
A bit like beauty lard in a tin, Vaseline is pretty hardcore. It's intensely greasy, but really sorts out dry and cracked lips. I always have one of the handy little tins on my desk at work and in my handbag, and apply a generous layer several times a day to ward off any hint of dryness. It's virtually impossible to apply lipstick on top, since it sits on your lips like an oil slick for at least 15 minutes. However, it's cheap, cheerful and brilliant for keeping your pout perfect.
iVillage verdict: Bargain buy
Blistex Herbal Balm, £2.25
I'm a fan of Blistex already, but this is the first time I've used this particular lip balm and I'm pretty impressed. Unlike other Blistex balms, this comes in a stick format. The balm isn't too gloopy or too runny and the herbal taste - a mixture of aloe, avocado, camomile, shea butter and jojoba - is quite nice. The blurb claims that the balm moisturises and soothes and I agree. It also has an SPF of 15, which is a great added extra. My lips do feel softer and moisturised, although I have noticed that I do need more of it as time goes on. I presume my lips are just getting used to it.
Virgin Vie Lip Defence SPF15 Anti-Oxidant Lip Balm, £5.50
Hands up - I'm a lip balm addict and have been since the age of 13. There are not many balms I haven't tried, but the Virgin Vie range is virgin territory for me. Described as being 'perfect for combating dryness', it sounds perfect for my winter-worn lips. The balm is sleekly packaged in a posh lipstick case, but unfortunately after a few applications, the stick started wobbling around and looked a bit fragile. Otherwise, the balm is good, though a bit sticky. It has a plain taste, gives your lips a lovely glow and most importantly does seem to nourish and replenish them.
Clinique, Superbalm Lip Treatment, £8.50
I've always suffered from dry, flaky lips, and am a seasoned lip balm wearer. This pinkish balm was thicker in texture than most other balms I've tried and slightly stickier, although not so sticky as to be off-putting. A small amount of it went a very long way - a tiny dab was enough to cover my whole lips and unlike some of the cheaper brands I've tried, it stayed put on my lips for longer rather than migrating around my mouth. My lips felt pleasantly tingly for a while after I put it on and also significantly more hydrated. I wouldn't recommend it for application under lipstick as it's a bit too thick, but it's a great nourishing treatment for slicking onto your lips before bed.
iVillage verdict: Best intensive treatment
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