Our lips are susceptible to drying out 365 days of the year! When dryness strikes, it can be difficult to combat. Whether it's due to lack of humidity, frequent sun exposure, or harsh winter air, giving your lips a little extra nourishment is essential.
For decades, dermatologists and beauty insiders have relied on the high-quality, scientifically-backed formulas from brands like Avene, La Roche-Posay, and Bioderma. The best bit? These iconic lip treatments don't break the bank!
We’ve rounded up five cult-favourite French lip balms, each an expert solution to a different lip concern, all priced under £10 during our current promotion.
(Note to Reader: Prices featured reflect our current French Pharmacy Promotion; prices may vary after this time. The regular RRP is noted below to show the saving.)
Prices featured have been taken from our French Pharmacy Promotion; these may vary after this time.
|
Lip Balm |
Best For |
Key Ingredient |
Texture on Lips |
| Eucerin Dry Skin Acute Lip Balm |
Dryness, Cracks & Redness |
Licorice Extract | Soothing, thick balm |
| Avene Cicalfate Restorative Lip Cream |
Severe Chapping & Family Use |
Sucralfate Complex |
Silky, water-resistant film |
| La Roche-Posay Cicaplast Lip Balm |
Sensitive Skin & Irritation |
10% Shea Butter / Thermal Spring Water |
Silky, water-resistant film |
| Uriage Bariederm Cica-Protecting Lip Balm |
Cold Weather & Protection |
Poly-2P Complex |
Moisturising, protective, invisible barrier |
| Bioderma Atoderm Moisturising Lip Balm |
Daily Hydration & Smoothness | Shea Butter / Avocado Oil |
Soft, moisturising stick |
1. The Soothing Lip Balm
The Eucerin Dry Skin Acute Lip Balm is a favourite around Escentual Head Office. Its innovative blend of active ingredients takes moisturising your lips to the next level.
Infused with Licorice Extract, it works to soothe redness and irritation, whilst added Primrose Oil regenerates your lip's protective barrier to prevent dryness caused by external aggressors such as pollution. Clinically and dermatologically proven, it tackles dryness, itching, and burning.
2. The Family-Friendly Lip Balm
If you're prone to severe chapped lips or dermatitis, try the Cicalfate Restorative Lip Cream. The gentle, fragrance-free formula is suitable for everyone, including babies, children, and adults. Its weightless, silky texture coats the lips in a thin, moisturising film for a soothed, soft, and comfortable finish.
We love how multifunctional it is! The nourishing formula offers instant relief whenever we’re suffering from dry patches on the nose, eyes, or lips. Plus, it's water-resistant too, so you can be ready for all the elements.
3. The Hypoallergenic Lip Balm
Part of the best-selling Cicaplast range for broken, damaged, and chapped skin, the Cicaplast Lip Balm is a must-have for dehydrated lips. Infused with La Roche-Posay's iconic Thermal Spring Water, the 100% hypoallergenic and dermatologist-tested design contains minimal ingredients, making it ideal for sensitive skin.
The formula, which contains a high concentration of 10% Shea Butter, soothes and comforts lips from the first use, with irritation around the lips reduced after just four weeks. We love the creamy, soft texture that effortlessly glides across the skin without feeling heavy.
4. The Protective Lip Balm
One thing that really excites us is the unique ingredients and ground-breaking patents used in this formula. Uriage's exclusive Poly-2P complex is what makes this balm stand out, as it works to repair and protect skin, exactly what you need for dry, sore lips, especially during the cold winter months.
This lip balm is held in a slim tube, making it easy to carry, while it also has a very neutral taste, so you can forget the formula is on while it gets to work on repairing skin.
5. The Hydrating Lip Balm
This handy stick provides ideal care for the skin, restoring comfort and softness both immediately and over time. Its rich formula is packed with nourishing ingredients like Shea Butter and Avocado Oil to smooth chapped lips. The inclusion of Laminaria helps repair and improve the skin's tolerance against external aggressions. This is an essential for daily hydration that feels lightweight and comfortable.
Are these lip balms sticky or glossy?
Generally, French Pharmacy balms prioritise deep hydration and a comfortable feel over a high-shine finish. Most are formulated to absorb quickly, leaving a smooth, comfortable film. The La Roche-Posay Cicaplast and Avene Cicalfate+ are thicker creams designed for heavy-duty repair, while the Bioderma Atoderm stick is lighter and less noticeable on the lips.
Can I wear these under lipstick?
Yes, most of these balms are excellent primers. Apply a thin layer and allow it to absorb for a minute or two before applying your lipstick. For matte lipsticks, we recommend a non-waxy stick like the Bioderma Atoderm for quick absorption
What makes a 'French Pharmacy' lip balm better than a high-street one?
French Pharmacy products are renowned for their minimalist, hypoallergenic formulas that are developed with dermatologists. They focus on using high concentrations of proven, soothing ingredients (like Thermal Spring Water, Shea Butter, and repairing complexes) to actively heal and restore the skin barrier, rather than just masking the dryness with wax.
How long will one tube/stick last?
Since these are all concentrated formulas, they are excellent value for money. A standard 7.5ml tube (like the Cicaplast or Cicalfate+) often lasts between 3 to 6 months of daily use, as you only need a small amount for effective coverage.
The Author: Chelsey
After eighteen years navigating the beauty landscape – from the shop floor to now – I've learned a thing or two about what you truly need. At Escentual, I'm here to bring that experience directly to you, offering expert advice to achieve your personal beauty goals.
