Yes, I know Sephora has Same Day Delivery now
For every major skincare / cosmetics brand that decides to throw in a lip balm (or several) to round out their collection at absurd price points, as well as for every major skincare brand that doesn’t think lip care is worth their investment (based on lack of inclusion), there are a half a dozen small businesses that have dedicated their entire skincare philosophy to lip care.
These smaller brands are not just more sustainable in nature (thanks to minimal manufacturing practices), but also boast ingredient lists that you can actually read through without your eyes glazing over, have uncontroversial leadership and – the best part – produce lip balms that actually do what they promise. They hydrate your lips.
Below, a shortlist of my favorite small business picks (no commissions here – just honest opinions).
KNC Beauty
I got lucky enough to discover this black-owned brand early in the pandemic, when social consciousness was at the forefront of everyone’s mind. I immediately purchased their “Supa Balm” in OG Rose (also comes in Mint) and could not have been more blown away. I sang their praises all over IG so loudly, in fact, that, in early 2021, they sent me a whole basket of goodies – potentially just to shut me up. If you like eye masks, they’ve got that, too!
METTA GOOD
Nicole Spear, founder of this beautifully minimalist brand, was kind enough to send me the line you see pictured here. As her story goes, it took two years to define the formula for this lip balm and it most certainly shows. Not only are the balms a home run in the hydration department, but the flavors are absolutely divine. Put one in each pair of jeans you own; not only will these slim tubes slide easily into the skinniest cut, but that’s how often you’ll want them!
The Rose Company
I wish I could say that the best part of these balms is that they come in recyclable cardboard tubes. Or that their flavor lineup includes succulent gems like Vanilla Cocoa (and, of course, the titular Rose). Or that the mini versions of their balms are called “rose buds.” But really, it’s impossible to choose just one thing about these vegan, consciously-crafted and endlessly reusable balms. I love it all!
Etta + Billie
My first collaboration ever was with the talented Alana, who found inspiration in food to create this apothecary brand. While their main draw is the luscious collection of creatively-scented body care products, the lip balms are not to be missed. The Ginger Orange is my personal favorite, but why not pick up the trio — and throw in some soap bars while you’re at it?
Throughout the 3-year run of The Perfect Balm on IG (now on a temporary hiatus while I focus on the blog and, oh yeah, care for an infant), I’ve been lucky enough to work with a more than a dozen small brands. A surprising number of them have captivated me with their formulations, and just as many have stunned me with their beautiful, conscious packaging and their inspired stories.
Despite how easy it might be to jump on the latest in lip offerings from that cult favorite skincare brand your oft-visited beauty retailer keeps hawking, I’d encourage you to check out any of the options above – or to keep your IG doomscroll open to a new discovery!
I promise you won’t be disappointed.
The Perfect Balm 