Key ingredients: peptide, micro-encapsulated hyaluronic acid, sugarcane-derived squalane | Shades: 3
Best for Chapped Lips: Eadem Le Couchou Exfoliating + Softening Peptide Lip Balm
Why we love it: Think of this lip-cocooning treatment as an ultra-luxe chapstick. Made with hibiscus enzymes and lactic acid, the treatment is a beauty-aisle godsend for chapped lips. Corey L. Hartman, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Alabama, says: “Anyone with dry, peeling lips, or anyone looking for exfoliation, would like this. The formula has alpha-hydroxy acids and peptides that help smooth out rough skin, reduce the appearance of wrinkles, and plump the skin in the lips.” Infused with intensely moisturizing natural butters, the treatment comes in five shades ranging from clear to rosy brown and desert rose.
Editor’s tip: The balm was (literally) made to shine. One of its key ingredients is Spreadit Polymer. As the name suggests, the polymer contributes to an even spread that has a gorgeously glossy finish and stops the product from bleeding outside the lip lines.
Key ingredients: peptides, alpha-hydroxy acids, Brazilian açaí and African mongongo butters | Shades: 5
Best Glossy Finish: Tula Lip SOS Lip Treatment Balm
Why we love it: Known to strengthen the skin barrier and pump up collagen production, probiotics are a signature ingredient for Tula, which also uses superfoods in its gastroenterologist-developed skincare. The brand’s tinted lip balm stays true to form, with a proprietary blend of prebiotic and probiotic acids interlaced with lip peptides and hyaluronic acid. The balm is also made with lip-softening blackberry extracts and pomegranate oil, which give it a scent and a subtle taste that channels a sunny afternoon in a berry field. (Talk about juicy lips.) It’s available in two glossy, buildable tints, Blackberry Velvet (pictured above) and Rose Bonne + Mine, as well as a clear Day and Night lip mask.
Key ingredients: prebiotics, peptides, hyaluronic acid | Shades: 3
Frequently Asked Questions
What does a peptide lip treatment do?
While peptides are short chains of amino acids that help build collagen, lip peptides are ingredients found in peptide lip treatments. “Lip peptides are effective for enhancing lip appearance by boosting collagen production, which helps keep lips firm and smooth,” says Dr. Lee. “They also improve hydration, making lips plump and well-moisturized, and reduce the appearance of fine lines while supporting overall repair. Essentially, [peptide lip treatments] help maintain youthful and healthy-looking lips!”
Do collagen peptides help lips?
Collagen peptides are itty-bitty forms of protein derived from animal collagen. They’re found in everything from skincare to coffee creamer. But do they work topically on the lips? “Absolutely,” Dr. Lee says. “Collagen peptides focus on the production and maintenance of collagen, which is essential for the firmness and elasticity of the skin. When used regularly on the lips, collagen peptides will improve and help maintain the shape, volume, and texture of the lips.”
Do peptide lip balms work?
“Peptide lip balms can be effective for improving lip texture and hydration,” Dr. Lee says. However, “The results can vary based on factors such as the concentration and type of peptides used, as well as individual skin responses.” If you really want to go for the lip-plumping gold—and have the budget for it— consider pairing your balms with in-office treatments. “While peptide lip balms can provide noticeable improvements and support lip health, they generally offer more subtle effects than professional procedures [such as fillers, Botox, and microneedling],” she says. As such, “Peptide lip balms are best used as a complementary tool for maintenance, rather than a replacement for more intensive treatments.”
Meet the experts
- Corey L. Hartman, MD, a board-certified dermatologist and founder of Skin Wellness Dermatology in Birmingham, Alabama
- Nicole Lee, MD, a board-certified dermatologist and owner of Epoch Dermatology in Garden City, New York
- Margarita Lolis, MD, a board-certified dermatologist and Mohs surgeon based in Hackensack, New Jersey
- Kiran Mian, MD, a board-certified dermatologist at Hudson Dermatology and Laser Surgery in New York City
How we test and review products
When Allure tests a product, our editors look at it from every angle in an effort to best serve you. We review ingredients, scrutinize brand claims, and, when necessary, examine peer-reviewed scientific and medical studies. In addition to testing each and every product that’s included in each and every review, we rely on experts who shape their fields, including dermatology, cosmetic chemistry, and medicine, to help us vet the ingredients and formulas.