If you’re anything like me, you’ve probably got a drawer full of lip balms. Not to mention tons of free ones that I get from airline amenity kits. But when The Ordinary—a brand known for its simple, uncomplicated formulations—announced they were releasing their very first lip balm Squalene + Amino Acids Lip Balm, I got intrigued. Here’s why this sleek, little tube has found a permanent spot in my bag—and probably will in yours too.
First Impressions: Sleek, Practical and Oh-So Chic
I’m a sucker for a product that’s as functional as it is stylish. The Squalane + Amino Acids Lip Balm comes in a minimalistic, sleek O-shaped tube that fits snugly in your hand and your handbag—perfect for on-the-go hydration. I mean, how can anyone not fall for that design? The squeezable design feels satisfyingly sturdy, and the streamlined tube means no more twisting or clicking lids. It’s simple, sleek, and fuss-free—everything you’d expect from The Ordinary.
And because the tube is compact, it slips into even the tiniest clutch, making it an ideal travel companion. Whether I’m dashing out the door for a meeting or heading out for an event, I love that it’s always within reach when my lips need a bit of TLC.
What’s Inside? All the Good Stuff
Now, let’s talk about what really matters: the ingredients. The Ordinary has brought its signature ethos of functional, honest ingredients to the lip balm game, and the results are impressive. The star players here are squalane and amino acids—a dream team when it comes to hydration.
Squalane is a bit of a wonder ingredient. Found naturally in our skin’s sebum, it’s renowned for its ability to lock in moisture without feeling greasy. It’s lightweight yet effective, and perfect for keeping the delicate skin on our lips hydrated. The lip balm uses squalane to create a barrier that helps prevent moisture loss, so your lips stay hydrated longer. Unlike many other lip balms that leave you constantly reapplying, this one keeps my lips feeling soft and plump for hours.
But it’s the biomimetic amino acids that are really exciting. These mimic the natural moisturising factors (NMF) found in our skin, helping to maintain hydration levels. It’s essentially like giving your lips the same care you’d give your skin with a serum, and I can definitely feel the difference. My lips aren’t just temporarily softened; they genuinely feel more nourished after using this balm.
How It Feels: Like a Hug for Your Lips
I was immediately impressed by how smooth and lightweight the balm felt on application. Some lip balms are thick and waxy, but this one glides on effortlessly, leaving a subtle sheen that doesn’t feel heavy or sticky. It’s incredibly comfortable to wear—none of that annoying lip balm residue—and absorbs beautifully into the skin.
After a few minutes, my lips felt softer, plumper, and perfectly hydrated. The balm stays put without migrating or disappearing, and even after sipping my tea, my lips retained that silky-smooth feeling.
Here’s where this balm really stands out. It’s not just for lips! As someone who constantly battles with dry cuticles and rough patches on my elbows, the fact that I can use the same product to target these areas is a real bonus. A quick swipe of balm on my cuticles and elbows, and they’re instantly softened and smoothed out. This multi-use functionality means one less product to carry around, which is always a win. Who doesn’t love a multi-tasker?
Plus, it works just as well on cuticles as it does on lips. It’s perfect for those emergency moments when I am out and notice my hands are looking a bit worse for wear. A dab of this balm, and I am good to go.
I’ve been using the Squalane + Amino Acids Lip Balm for a week now, and I can honestly say my lips have never felt better. Where I used to find myself reapplying balm several times a day, I now reach for this only once or twice, and that’s purely out of habit. My lips stay hydrated, soft, and smooth all day long, even in air-conditioned environments where I normally struggle with dryness.
The balm also seems to improve the overall texture of my lips. I’ve noticed fewer flakes and less cracking.
If you’re looking for a lip balm that goes beyond quick fixes and truly cares for your lips, The Ordinary’s Squalane + Amino Acids Lip Balm is worth every penny. Priced at S$20, it’s an affordable indulgence with a luxe feel and noticeable results. Plus, the added bonus of being able to use it on cuticles and elbows makes it one of the most versatile products I’ve used in a long time.
So, would I recommend it? Absolutely. Whether you’re already a fan of The Ordinary or simply on the hunt for a new staple in your skincare arsenal, this lip balm is a hydration hero you won’t want to leave home without.
