Why 2020 Is the Year of the Lip Balm

"A deep berry is such a universally flattering shade. Cheeky Cherry ($5) a great everyday wash of color when you're looking for a pop of color with extra polish, but I also love layering it over my favorite dark lipsticks. It adds the perfect amount of sheen and hint of color for fall. When heading outside with my mask on, I just make sure to use setting spray to lock it in place." — Kathleen Harper, style editor

"As someone with very fair, cool-toned skin, berry tinted balms like Boss Berry ($5) are my go-to lip products. Berry might seem like the most intimidating shade of the bunch, but it is ultraflattering and also makes my teeth appear whiter." — Joanna Douglas, executive director

"I love wearing a warm, pinky-nude shade like Tough Cookie ($5) since it works so well with my complexion for a barely there effect. This lip balm in particular gives such a pretty sheer wash of color — I typically apply it on my lips using my fingers but have also dabbed it on my cheeks as blush and across my lids as eyeshadow. It's so versatile!" — Steph Nguyen, senior style editor

"I love to wear a kind of tinted lip balm that has a little shine to get that almost glittery effect. Grapefruit Goals ($5) is great to have in your bag when you're out and have an unexpected date or social event and you can't get home to touch up. For example, when you convince yourself to go for a long walk or to read in the park wearing zero makeup, but then that Hinge guy you've been on a couple of dates with texts saying he's in the neighborhood . . . that kind of situation." — Irene San Segundo, lead editor

"When I do wear makeup, I tend to keep it pretty minimal — especially since I've been working from home for the past six months. I usually go for a balm that's just a shade or two darker than my natural color, like Just Peachy ($5). The opaque wash of color makes me look just a touch more polished for video calls or outdoor hangs with friends." — Annalise Lowenstein, lifestyle editor

"Don't get me wrong, I'm a big fan of tinted lip balms, especially when they're natural-looking and juicy. However, since I'm wearing a mask so often and doing my best to avoid having to wash off any — and I mean any — makeup at night, my new go-to is the clear Mighty Mint ($5). I'm also a sucker for any lip product that offers a refreshing fragrance vs. something that resembles a baked good, and Mighty Mint definitely meets that mark." — Sam Sasso, beauty editor

"I love fall and anything that can help me get in the seasonal mood. P.S.L ($5) is a burnt-orange-y shade that is surprisingly so flattering. It adds a touch of warmth to your everyday makeup look and still looks amazing with your leftover summer glow!" — Amanda Murray, style director