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Loralyn Narvaez
Life

Chapstick Review 2021: The Best and Worst

This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at PSU chapter.

I got into the wonderful world of chapsticks after watching YouTuber Emma Chamberlain — the original, undisputed chapstick contesor. As she has introduced me to various chapstick brands, I have begun to formulate my own opinions on which are the best and which are not so favorable. I also took into account the price range of each product, as spending over four dollars on chapstick may not seem like much, but it can add up quickly. 

Blistex

Coming in at number one is Blistex. For a broke college student like me, Blistex is not only the most affordable product, but it is also one of the highest quality chapsticks on the market. Their variety pack of three flavors — including original, berry, and peppermint flavoring — is my ideal purchase, as it makes things interesting while still maintaining the same great quality that Blistex provides. Here is a link if you are interested in trying it out: https://www.target.com/p/blistex-medicated-spf-15-lip-balm-pack-mint-berry-38-classic-3ct/-/A-51074012

Chap Ice

Chap Ice is a rare commodity. I’ll never forget the first time I bought it: one faithful day at the Jersey Shore boardwalk. I was desperate for chapstick, and Chap Ice just happened to be the first one I saw. Something about the formula within Chap Ice causes a tingling sensation, while also promising medical-level quality. If there is one chapstick I can encourage you to seek out the most, it’s Chap Ice. Here is the link to their website: https://www.oralabs.com/personal-care-products/#:~:text=ChapIce%C2%AE%20is%20a%20popular,protects%20and%20moisturizes%20chapped%20lips.&text=And%2C%20because%20OraLabs%20wants%20to,Made%20in%20the%20USA. I will definitely be placing an order with them.

Carmex

Carmex remains the ‘Emma Chamberlain classic.’ There is something soothing about the burning sensation it provides after application, but it also heals your lips in a simple, yet effective way. Though Carmex can be a bit more expensive, it has various applicators that suit your needs. 

 

For instance, I prefer the original stick rather than the tube; the tube causes me to apply more product than I need, but the original stick is just enough. One notable issue with Carmex, however, is that it is very meltable. When accidentally left in a hot car or even in your pocket for too long, it becomes completely unusable. Overall, it still is a great product. Here is the link to their website: https://www.mycarmex.com/ 

Raw Sugar

Raw Sugar is a brand that always sticks out to me. Personally, I only like using one chapstick at a time, as it minimizes waste and holds me accountable for finishing the whole product. However, while shopping for chapsticks, I’ve noticed they usually come in a pack of three. This can sometimes be inconvenient, but Raw Sugar usually only comes in a pack of one. Their packaging is biodegradable, and the products come in an assortment of flavors.  Overall, it is not my most favorite formula, but it gets the job done. Here is their website to learn more: https://rawsugarliving.com/

EOS

EOS is my least favorite brand of chapstick for a multitude of reasons. To begin, the packaging is atrocious. The ball shape makes it difficult to carry around in the back pocket of your jeans or really any pants pocket. Additionally, the odor of EOS is unappealing, as I am very smell-sensitive. 


I also feel that it always makes my lips more chapped, which defeats the purpose of wearing chapstick at all. EOS also makes me reflect on my middle school self, which I am trying to avoid at all costs. However, I will give EOS credit for adapting a new shape to it’s packaging in order to make it slimmer. They have also started incorporating skincare into their company. Here is the link to try it out:  https://evolutionofsmooth.com/

Overall, I hope you find these tips and tricks helpful. Taking care of your lips is extremely important, and can help you feel significantly more confident. 

Health Policy and Administration student at Pennsylvania State University.
Arden Ericson will graduate Penn State in May of 2023. As one of the Campus Correspondents for Her Campus at PSU, she is a double-major in Public Relations and French Language. After graduation, she will pursue a career that combines her passion for educational equity, social justice and French.