Basic is a word we are used to hearing in derogatory terms: anything referred to as “basic” is mediocrity at its worst. But basic has its place. For instance, when it comes to lip products. The industry has really pushed the needle on lip-care, so that our lips are being treated to as much attention as our face. You can now get lip oils, serums, masks, treatments… And I applaud that. It’s important for the industry to be forward thinking, to push boundaries and go the extra mile with what they can offer us, the consumer. Let’s face it, we are a demanding lot. But you know something? For all the innovation, sometimes I just want a basic balm. (OK, an elevated basic.) Nothing with a newfangled name or iteration, just an old-school lip balm that, yes, makes your lips look and feel good, whether or not you are wearing lipstick but – more importantly – one that doesn’t need constant reapplication. (If yours does, check you are not dehydrated; if that still doesn’t work, try something else.) A special shout out to By Terry’s Baume de Rose. It is one of the best I have used, so I come back to it time and time again. It is also spenny – just as well it lasts an absolute age.
1. Glossier Strawberry Balm Dotcom £14, glossier.com
2. By Terry Baume De Rose £42, byterry.com
3. Inkey List Tripeptide Plumping Lip Balm £11, uk.theinkeylist.com
4. Augustinus Bader x Sofia Coppola The Tinted Lip Balm £33, augustinusbader.com 5. Sisley Phyto-Lip Balm £46, sisley.com
6. Dr PawPaw Lip Balm SPF 20 £5, waitrose.com
7. Christian Dior Beauty Le Baume £50, dior.com
8. Pleasing Big Lip HA Moisture Balm £20, pleasing.com
9. Chantecaille Rose De Mai Nourishing Lip Balm £44, spacenk.com
10. Givenchy Beauty Rose Perfecto Liquid Lip Balm £33, givenchybeauty.com
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