Lip balms may be tiny, but they can cause some oversized reactions. Recall the last time you dug into your bag or pocket looking for some chapped-lip relief, only to realize that your favorite balm had vanished. Agony.When we solicited testers to help us uncover the best balms out there, many Wirecutter staffers clamored to volunteer, confirming what we already knew well: People are passionate about lip balm.Since 2020, we’ve tested more than 115 lip balms and treatments — the greasy and goopy, the ill-tasting, the smelly, and the fiendishly expensive. In our most recent round of testing, we reevaluated our five previous picks and confirmed they’re still our favorites. They include an exceptional everyday lip balm for under $5, an invisible sun protector, a soothing medicated option, a near-perfect splurge, and a tinted balm in lots of flattering shades. Plus, we tried 18 lip masks and found a thick, hydrating formulation that clings to lips, even overnight. Each pick has unique qualities, but they share one common denominator: They all make lips feel amazing.