Squalane + Amino Acids Hydrating Lip Balm

The Ordinary Squalane + Amino Acids Hydrating Lip Balm is a balm with a wider remit than most. It's built for lips, but the brand intends it for elbows and cuticles too — anywhere skin goes dry and needs moisture put back and held there.

Skin types	Normal and dry
Concern	Dryness
Formulation	Balm — multi-use across lips, cuticles and elbows
Key ingredients	Squalane base · biomimetic amino acid blend with natural moisturising factors
Also	Cruelty-free · vegan · gluten-free · recyclable packaging

What it actually does

• Hydrates immediately, then holds it. Squalane does the first part at the surface and supports the barrier; the amino acids are there to retain and seal that moisture in.
• Softens rather than just coats. The balm's emollience is what gives the long-lasting comfort, so it isn't only a film sitting on top of dry lips.
• Works beyond the lips. The brand positions it for cuticles and elbows as well, and its own week-long testing reported dry elbows looking visibly better and cuticles noticeably softer with continued use.
• Reported gentle in testing. The Ordinary's clinical work found no irritation and no sensitisation on skin, while noting that every skin is different.
• Backed by brand hydration testing. In testing on 35 subjects, a single application boosted moisturisation and provided all-day hydration; three applications a day for one week left lips noticeably softer.
• A short, clean formula list. No parabens, phthalates, mineral oil, sulfates or added fragrance of consequence.

Figures above come from The Ordinary's own clinical testing. Individual results vary.

How to use

1. Apply to lips whenever they feel dry — there's no limit on frequency.
2. Work a little into cuticles after washing your hands.
3. Smooth over elbows, ideally after a shower while skin is still soft.
4. For lips overnight, a thicker layer before bed is the most useful version of this product.

Is it right for you?

Questions

Can I really use it on elbows and cuticles?

Yes — the brand designed it as a multi-use balm and tested it on exactly those areas. Their week-long trial reported dry elbows and hard cuticles both looking better with repeated use.

How often can I reapply?

As often as you need it. The brand's own testing protocol used it three times a day, which is a reasonable benchmark if your lips are badly dry.

Is it suitable for sensitive lips?

The Ordinary's testing found neither irritation nor sensitisation, and the formula skips fragrance and the usual irritant list. That's encouraging, though the brand is clear that every skin differs.

How long does delivery take, and how do I pay?

Delivery takes 3 to 21 working days, depending on availability. Payment is by credit card, debit card, Instapay or mobile wallet — no cash on delivery.

What if it arrives damaged?

Message us within 1 day of delivery with a photo. Returns cover defective, damaged or expired items only, and approved refunds reach your original payment method within 15–30 days.