Dr. Nina Botto was recently asked to help the New York Times Wirecutter independently test a range of lip balms.
For those who don't know about Wirecutter, is the product recommendation service from The New York Times. They have a staff of journalists who combine independent research with (occasionally) over-the-top testing so you can make quick and confident buying decisions. Whether it’s finding great products or discovering helpful advice, they promise to help you get it right (the first time).
The journalist from the New York Times Wirecutter publication put all the products through a regime of testing criteria...from application, smell and taste to opacity, longevity and price.
"The dermatologists we’ve spoken to over the years have all recommended a plain lip balm or 100% petroleum jelly like Vaseline, especially if you already know that your skin is sensitive, because added fragrances and tingly additives (camphor, menthol, peppermint oil) have the potential to irritate the skin, creating a negative feedback loop that makes you feel as if you need more lip balm."
