I've been a loyal Aquaphor user for years, and I have to say that the new Coconut Lip Repair Balm has quickly become my favorite product from the brand.

As a beauty director, trying new products is part of my job (I mean, it’s practically a requirement). I’m constantly testing out the latest skincare, haircare, and makeup formulas, but every now and then, a standout product earns a permanent spot in my routine. Aquaphor, a dermatologist-approved staple, is one of those products I use for everything—from dry lips and irritated eyelids to ragged cuticles, wild brows, and even diaper rashes. It's my ultimate desert island pick (I’ve even used it as highlighter on my cheeks and as a hand sheen when I’m on TV). So when I found out there was a coconut version, I knew I had to try it.

The Coconut Lip Repair Stick sample arrived just when I needed it. Fall is in full swing here in New York, and with the cooler weather comes chapped lips (yikes). To be honest, I’m a lip picker (gross, I know), so keeping my lips smooth and moisturized is essential. Once those flakes appear, it's a battle to get them under control for the rest of the season.

Aquaphor's Coconut Lip Repair Stick

The formula, which is 99% naturally derived, comes in a convenient stick form and is free from preservatives, dyes, and fragrances—making it a great choice for anyone seeking a cleaner option. While I do love the larger tubs and squeeze tubes, the portability of the stick makes it the easiest to keep on hand. The original formula includes ingredients like petroleum jelly, mineral oil, glycerin, and lanolin, which help soften skin and lock in moisture, while the new version boasts coconut oil, shea butter, castor seed oil, beeswax, and sunflower oil—making it perfect for sensitive lips like mine.

I reached out to one of my go-to dermatologists, Joshua Zeichner, MD, board-certified dermatologist and the director of dermatology cosmetic and clinical research at Mount Sinai Hospital, to compare the ingredient lists. "This formula doesn’t rely on purified petrolatum as the base, which gives it a lighter texture and makes it easier to apply to areas like the lips," he explains. "While purified petroleum has been shown to be safe and effective on skin, this alternative offers a more natural option for those seeking all-natural ingredients."

While I still enjoy using the classic formula as a rich overnight lip mask, the new coconut stick is perfect for daily use. It’s lightweight yet incredibly moisturizing, transforming my dry, cracked lips into soft, kissable ones. Before I begin my makeup, I apply a thin layer, then proceed with my foundation, blush, and eyes. By the time I get to my lips, it has soaked in, leaving them prepped for a flawless lipstick application—mwah.

If you're worried that the balm will have an overly sweet, coconutty scent like Bonnebell Pina Colada (a high school favorite of mine), don’t worry—it’s fragrance-free. While I’ll keep testing all the new lip balms that come my way (because, well, duty calls), I already know which one I’ll be using all season long.