Though my makeup obsession has grown over the years, back in elementary school, I was all about simplicity. My beauty routine revolved around a singular product: lip balm. We didn’t really refer to it as “balm” back then; our primary concern was the flavor rather than the moisturizing benefits. The ’80s was a vibrant era for lip products, filled with artificial flavors and colorful packaging, punctuated by favorites like cherry ChapStick and Revlon Silver City Pink. Here are ten lip balms from that magical decade we wish we could rediscover today.
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Bonne Bell Lip Smacker
Who knew that mint and cherry could be such thrilling flavors? Once my older sister introduced me to her Strawberry Lip Smacker, I was hooked. Bonne Bell was a pioneer, offering an array of outrageous fruit flavors that were almost irresistible. From Dr. Pepper to Good & Plenty, I would trade anything for a Tootsie Roll Lip Smacker right now. -
The Lip Smacker Necklace
Imagine wearing a giant Lip Smacker around your neck, ready for application at any time. That was the height of cool! Sporting my Bubble Gum Lip Smacker as an accessory, I was always prepared for reapplication during soccer practice and even wore it to bed, adding flair to my Lanz flannel pajamas. -
The Body Shop Lip Balm
The Body Shop’s Kiwi Fruit flavor was the epitome of exotic for me. I was enamored with the greasy green concoction that left my lips shiny and moist. Although I tried Apricot at one point, nothing could compare to the delightful experience of using Kiwi Fruit. -
Kissing Koolers
Maybelline’s Kissing Koolers were a childhood favorite. Their charming packaging reminded me of cherry-cream Lifesaver lollipops. With flavors like watermelon and an eye-catching pop-up top, Kissing Koolers were a must-have for any young girl who fancied herself a potential kisser. -
Village Lip Lickers
Once I discovered Watermelon Lip Lickers, I was ruined for other balms. This sticky gloss, often left to melt in the heat of a car, was irresistible. The familiar scent would turn heads, making me the center of attention wherever I went. -
Naturistics Glossy Lip Balm
Naturistics raised the bar with its vibrant packaging and enticing flavors. The packaging featured botanical illustrations that made the product feel sophisticated. Though I embraced its “naturalistic” branding, I was just drawn to the fun flavors like lime and mango. -
Carmex
Carmex users were fiercely loyal. This balm, reminiscent of an old apothecary product, didn’t mess around with fruity flavors. It was a classic that many started using as teens and never stopped. I still can’t fathom why anyone would choose it over a fun Orange Crush Lip Smacker. -
Kissing Potion
For all the budding romantics, Kissing Potion was a staple. The Cherry Smash flavor had me applying coat after coat in front of the mirror, dreaming of my future crushes. -
Candy Kisses
Though some argue they belong to the ’90s, Candy Kisses were a balm treasure. Those tiny tins offered a mint chocolate flavor that felt more like a treat than a beauty product, and they were a delightful surprise outside of a Baskin-Robbins. -
Zinka
While Zinka Nosecoat was technically a neon sunscreen, the cool kids used it as a lip balm. With its fluorescent hues, it offered protection from the sun and made a bold statement by the pool—a unique blend of youthful rebellion and childhood joy.
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In conclusion, the lip balms of the ’80s captured our imaginations and taste buds, representing a carefree time in our lives. From the fruity flavors to the quirky packaging, these products hold a special place in our nostalgic hearts.