This Lip Balm Is My Answer to Dry, Cracked Lips

Lip balm is one of those beauty products that I don't even register as a little luxury — it's a necessity. I have one in my pocket, my bag, or on my nightstand at all times. Over the years, and likely due to my job as a beauty editor, I've become even more picky when it comes to formulas, as I've realized that there are many that only act as occlusives (as in, they trap moisture) and don't provide any real hydration to the lips on their own.

To combat this, many have turned to lip-basting, a two- to three-step routine that requires you to exfoliate and moisturize your lips in a similar manner to how you treat your face. However, as someone with a pretty hectic schedule, I simply don't have time to do this every time I need to leave my house. I want a balm that doesn't feel like it just sits on my mouth but is actually making my lips feel moisturized and hydrated with every wear. Enter, the Topicals Slick Salve ($16).

Topicals Slick Salve

From

$16

$16 at Sephora

Described as a barrier-building balm that hydrates, soothes, and protects dry lips, this product was met with a polarizing response on TikTok. While some say it's the most moisturizing product that they've ever used, others say that it's sticky and isn't made for everyday wear. I had to try it for myself, so read ahead for my review of the lip balm that is sending people on TikTok into a frenzy.

I typically prefer unscented beauty products — most brands overdo it, in my opinion — but mint is one of the exceptions. I've found it to be one of the few scents that can never be too strong, and I believe that it has aromatherapeutic benefits. So when I got a refreshing whiff of this lip balm, I immediately added it to my mental list of pros.

As for the formula, I've heard complaints that it's sticky. However, I would say that it's more tacky and is a sensation that I personally don't mind. When I wipe it off, my lips still feel moisturized, which leads me to believe that this would be a great product for people with particularly dry and sensitive skin. A few years, I had a weird reaction that was likely due to a vitamin deficiency, and it manifested in me having painfully dry lips and cracks in the corners of my mouth. At that time, I would have done anything for a product like this one and found myself having to reapply my lipsticks and lip balms what felt like every few minutes. Had I had this salve, its long-wearing formula would have been great to keep in my back pocket when things got particularly painful.

If you apply too much of the balm, it can definitely get sticky, so if you have normal skin, apply a very small amount of the salve onto your lips. If you have chronically dry lips, however, feel free to be a bit more liberal with your application. The balm will help to soothe any irritation that you're experiencing for a few hours.

You can buy the Topicals Slick Salve at Sephora, the brand's website, and Amazon.com.

Rating: ★★★★★