It started as a footnote on a beauty blog. Into The Gloss readers kept asking founder Emily Weiss for a perfect lip balm — so she made one.
The real genius? It wasn’t just a product launch. It was the first physical piece of the Glossier universe — a $12 tube of belonging.
A triple-threat balm. $14 now. They claim it’s a “skin salve” for everywhere. I call it a vibe.
The Tube
Squeezy, matte, and satisfyingly chubby.
The Flavors
Wild Fig is the only one that doesn’t smell like a Bath & Bodyworks clearance sale.
The Claim
“Universal skin salve.” Sure. But putting it on your cuticles is a messy, greasy choice.
Photo: Katie Harp / Unsplash
It’s glorified Vaseline with branding. The base is petroleum and lanolin — old-school occlusives that seal moisture in.
- Petrolatum: Seals a barrier on skin.
- Lanolin: Emollient from sheep’s wool.
- Castor Seed Oil: Adds slight gloss.
- Antioxidant Blend: Marketing sprinkles.
Photo: Sonia Roselli / Unsplash
Thick. Waxy. It doesn’t melt — it glides on with a distinct drag. Leaves a visible, glossy film. Not for under lipstick.
After two weeks? My lips were softer, but no more than with my drugstore balm. The surprise? It lasts forever. That tiny tube is a bottomless pit.
Photo: Rosa Rafael / Unsplash
It fixed my winter lip flakes overnight. Did it transform my skin? No. It’s a balm.
Photo: Virginia Berbece / Unsplash
It’s a cult classic for a reason — but the reason is branding, not a miracle formula.