Halfway into 2025, we are already witnessing a shift in beauty trends. Consumers are now increasingly leaning toward more minimalist and multi-purpose products. The tinted lip balms category is among the prominent segments growing on top of this trend.
A major reason for this growth is the benefits these balms offer compared to traditional lipsticks. The best tinted lip balms are lightweight, nourishing, and easy to apply. They are perfect for enhancing natural lip color without damaging the lips and keeping them moisturized.
Whether you are going for a no-makeup makeup look, subtle daily wear, or want a swipe-and-go solution, let us introduce you to the tinted lip balms that suit your unique skin tone and budget.
Top 8 Best Tinted Lip Balms in 2025
1. Summer Fridays Lip Butter Balm – Best Overall Tinted Lip Balm
This balm has a cult following and offers a buttery texture that hydrates while providing a sheer, glossy tint. Ingredients like shea and murumuru seed butter make it a go-to choice for daily wear.
• Why it’s worth it: Deeply hydrating, sheer glossy tint, clean ingredients
• Key ingredients: Shea butter, murumuru seed butter, vegan waxes
• Pros: Non-sticky, luxe feel, lightly flavored
• Cons: Pricey for a balm
• Price Range: $22-$26
• Best for: All-day hydration with a hint of color
2. Burt’s Bees Tinted Lip Balm – Best Budget Tinted Lip Balm
A reliable option for anyone looking for natural ingredients at an affordable price. It offers a soft, matte tint without shimmer, making it a minimalist’s favorite.
• Why it’s worth it: Longstanding favorite, natural formula, under $10
• Key ingredients: Shea butter, beeswax, botanical oils
• Pros: Affordable, natural tint, soft matte finish
• Cons: Limited shade range
• Price Range: $6-$10
• Best for: Everyday wear on a budget
3. Supergoop! Lipshade 100% Mineral SPF 30 – Best Tinted Lip Balm with SPF
Ideal for outdoor activities, this balm hydrates, provides sun protection, and a hint of color. A mineral-based formula allows for a broad-spectrum SPF 30 coverage.
• Why it’s worth it: High SPF coverage, vibrant tints, dermatologist-recommended
• Key ingredients: Zinc oxide, shea butter, sunflower seed oil
• Pros: Mineral SPF 30, moisturizing, clean formula
• Cons: Slightly waxy texture
• Price Range: $22-$24
• Best for: Sun protection + a pop of color
4. Hurraw! Tinted Lip Balm – Best Vegan/Clean Formula
An all-organic, vegan lip balm available in various flavors and tints. This balm is smooth, nourishing, and comes in eco-friendly packaging.
• Why it’s worth it: 100% vegan, organic, non-toxic ingredients
• Key ingredients: Candelilla wax, almond oil, cocoa butter
• Pros: Clean ingredients, cruelty-free, subtle tint
• Cons: Melts easily in heat
• Price Range: $7-$9
• Best for: Eco-conscious, vegan beauty lovers
5. Ilia Balmy Tint Hydrating Lip Balm – Best for Deep Skin Tones
A perfect balm to complement richer skin tones with its deeper hues like “Wanderlust” and “Memoir.” Its hydrating formula makes it comfortable to wear throughout the day.
• Why it’s worth it: Inclusive shades, clean formula, rich pigments
• Key ingredients: Salicornia, rosehip oil, shea butter
• Pros: Creamy texture, great color payoff, hydrating
• Cons: On the pricier side
• Price Range: $28-$30
• Best for: Richer skin tones, deeper pigment payoff
6. CHANEL Rouge Coco Baume – Best High-End Option
A luxurious choice that offers a buildable color and intense hydration. An elegant packaging and nourishing formula make it a favorite for those seeking a premium lip care experience.
• Why it’s worth it: Luxurious feel, buildable color, chic packaging
• Key ingredients: Meadowfoam oil, jojoba butter, olive oil derivatives
• Pros: Elegant look, glossy finish, moisturizing
• Cons: Expensive
• Price Range: $42-$45
• Best for: Luxury beauty fans
7. Violette_FR Bisou Balm – Best Buildable Color
The buildable color payoff allows users to achieve anything from a sheer tint to a more pronounced hue. Also easy to apply due to its creamy texture.
• Why it’s worth it: Buildable sheer-to-bold tint, buttery smooth texture
• Key ingredients: Castor seed oil, carnauba wax, vitamin E
• Pros: Blendable, elevated packaging, unique shades
• Cons: May not be moisturizing enough for very dry lips
• Price Range: $28-$30
• Best for: Versatile daytime-to-evening wear
8. Paula’s Choice Lipscreen SPF 50 – Best for Sensitive Lips
A formula that has zero common irritants, this balm offers high SPF protection while being gentle on sensitive lips. It also comes with a lightweight texture to ensure comfortable wear without compromising on sun protection.
• Why it’s worth it: High sun protection, gentle formula, non-irritating
• Key ingredients: Avobenzone, octisalate, shea butter
• Pros: Dermatologist-approved, fragrance-free, SPF 50
• Cons: No tint options (available only in clear or subtle nude)
• Price Range: $12-$14
• Best for: Sensitive, sun-prone lips
How to Choose the Best Tinted Lip Balm?
Choosing the right tinted lip balm can be daunting, with a wide range of available options on the market today. Be it a subtle glow you’re after, or sun protection with color, here are some things to keep in mind before buying one:
1. Match It to Your Skin Tone
Different colors suit different complexions. This makes choosing the right tinted lip balm for your skin tone essential:
- Fair skin: Go for soft pinks, peaches, or rosy nudes.
- Medium skin: Try mauves, berry tones, or warm corals.
- Deep skin: Rich plums, burgundies, and deeper reds offer beautiful contrast and depth.
2. Pick Your Preferred Finish
The finish of your tinted lip balm can change the vibe entirely, whether you want a casual look or a polished pout:
- Glossy-tinted lip balms provide a juicy, hydrated look — ideal for a dewy makeup routine.
- Matte-tinted lip balms give a more sophisticated, blurred-lip effect without shine.
Tip: Choose the lip balm based on your makeup style or mix both for versatile wear.
3. Check the Ingredients
The best tinted lip balms are not just about adding color, they also nourish and protect. Look for hydrating lip balm ingredients that offer real skincare benefits:
- SPF: For daily sun protection, especially if you’re outdoors often.
- Natural oils & butter: Like coconut oil, jojoba oil, and shea butter for moisture.
- Hyaluronic acid: Helps plump and smooth dry lips by attracting hydration.
Tip: Avoid products with alcohol, synthetic fragrances, or parabens if you have sensitive skin.
4. Go Vegan and Cruelty-Free
If ethical beauty matters to you, look for vegan tinted lip balms and products certified cruelty-free by organizations like Leaping Bunny or PETA. These products contain no animal-derived ingredients and haven’t been tested on animals—a perfect choice for conscious consumers.
5. Choose the Right Packaging
Did you know? The packaging of your tinted lip balm affects both usability and hygiene
- Stick format: Easiest for on-the-go use — mess-free and portable.
- Squeeze tubes: More hygienic and often used for glossy finishes.
- Pots: Offer a more luxe experience, but less ideal for travel and may require finger application.
Key Benefits of Tinted Lip Balms
- Moisturizes Dry Lips: Tinted lip balms are packed with hydrating ingredients like shea butter and natural oils that help soothe and soften dry, chapped lips.
- Adds a Hint of Color: They deliver a natural flush of color, making them perfect for no-makeup makeup days when you want just a touch of tint without the heaviness of lipstick.
- SPF Protection: Many tinted balms include SPF, offering added protection against harmful UV rays to help prevent sun damage to the delicate skin on your lips.
- On-the-Go Friendly: They’re easy to apply without a mirror, making them ideal for busy lifestyles and quick touch-ups throughout the day.
- Lightweight and Non-Sticky: Tinted lip balms feel like a balm—not a gloss—so they’re smooth, breathable, and comfortable to wear all day long.
Tinted Lip Balm vs. Lipstick vs. Lip Gloss: A Quick Comparison
| Feature | Tinted Lip Balm | Lipstick | Lip Gloss |
| Primary Purpose | Hydration & subtle color | Intense color & definition | Shine & sometimes sheer color |
| Color Payoff | Sheer/light | Medium to opaque/high | Clear to sheer/medium |
| Finish/Texture | Natural, balmy, slight sheen | Varies: matte, satin, cream, frost | High shine, glossy, sometimes sticky |
| Hydration Level | High (designed for moisture) | Varies (matte can be drying) | Varies (can hydrate or just sit on top) |
| Longevity | Low to moderate | Moderate to high | Low (frequent reapplication) |
| Application | Very easy (no mirror needed) | Moderate (precision needed) | Easy to moderate (wand applicator) |
| Key Benefit | Care + hint of color | Boldness + versatile finishes | Shine + illusion of fullness |
| Best For | -Natural, everyday looks-Dry lips needing moisture -Low-maintenance color -SPF protection (often included) | -Making a statement -Bold, defined lip shape -Longer-lasting wear | -Adding high shine-Making lips appear fuller-Layering over lipstick-Youthful, dewy look |
| Common Forms | Stick, pot, squeeze tube | Bullet, liquid, crayon | Wand applicator, squeeze tube |
How to Apply Tinted Lip Balm for Best Results (Step-by-Step Guide)
1. Exfoliate Your Lips: Start with a smooth canvas. Use a gentle lip scrub or a damp toothbrush to slough off dead skin.
2. Apply Evenly: Swipe the balm from the center of your lips outward. Use your fingertip or the applicator to blend for a seamless look.
3. Build Your Color: For a bolder tint, apply multiple layers until you reach your desired intensity.
4. Reapply as Needed: Tinted balms are often lighter in wear — refresh your look after eating, drinking, or throughout the day for continuous hydration and color.
Final Note
In 2025, the best tinted lip balms are ones that strike the balance of function and style. The growth of tinted lip balms as a category has also given rise to amazing formulas, making it easier for consumers to find one that suits their style and needs. From SPF protection and vegan formulas to shades designed for every complexion, one thing is for sure—lip care has never looked this good.
