In a sea of lip products competing for your attention, Cocokind’s new ceramide lip balm stands out for its formula, price and one clever design twist. Brands such as Summer Fridays, Ole Hendrickson, Topicals, Rhode, elf, and Burt’s Bees have released balms of some sort. That being said, each beauty product has characteristics that make it unique.
Recently on March 20th, the makeup brand Cocokind dropped their full line-up of ceramide lip balms which went on sale Memorial Day weekend. The sale consisted of a buy one get one free deal. One lip balm comes out to a total cost of $12. This deal allowed for two lip balms for the price of one. This sale sparked a lot of traction via social media of influencers trying the product.
Cocokind released 5 shades: Clear (Be Real), Coral Pink (Be Kind), Burgundy (Be Bold), Soft Brown (Be Powerful), and Rich Brown (Be You). From transparent to more opaque balms, this variety creates shade ranges suitable for all skin tones and personal preference.
Through ordering all the shades except for Burgundy, (which was sold out) I was pleasantly surprised with how much I like them. To understand the hype there are multiple components to consider such as formula, price and design.
Formula is key when it comes to lip products and can make or break the amount of times someone reaches for the tube. I’ve definitely accumulated some lip products that have been sitting on my shelf unused because I didn’t like the formula.
Cocokind’s formula contains sensitive ingredients only. On their website, it’s stated, “We specifically researched common allergens for lip and left out the biggest culprits, including flavor. Fragrance, essential oils, etc.”
Meaning these balms are indeed odorless and unflavored. While this may be a disappointment for some, this product allows for inclusivity for those with skin sensitivity issues. Not to mention they add ceramides and peptides which help target dryness and help nourish skin.
“A 2023 study evaluated a facial serum containing neuropeptides, proteins, amino acids, and marine extract. Older adults who used the serum over a three-month period experienced increased skin hydration, smoothness, and tightening, including in the lip area,” said Kathleen Ferraro.
When applying the balm there was no scent or flavor at all, which delivers on what the brand promises. The actual consistency of the balms were very smooth. However, something to note is that not every balm is exactly the same in feel. The clear balm was definitely more oily as opposed to the darkest shade being thicker. Which I don’t love, since it makes the balm feel thin and creates inconsistency with the lineup. It’s not a big difference, and both hold onto the lips well, but I was surprised at how easily I could tell them apart. Upon further inspection, there are fewer ingredients in the clear balm, which potentially impacts the actual consistency.
When looking at color and application, they do the job. Their shades are very nice and aren’t patchy, but that can vary depending on if it’s applied evenly. Factors such as the amount of balm and even lip moisture can impact the results. Applying too much or too little can lead to a more patchy application, yet it’s an easy fix through spreading the balm evenly on the lips.
The amount of product applied can also change the exact opacity of the shade, essentially giving you a wider range of tones to choose from. Maybe a bold lip, or perhaps something more natural. It’s key to make sure lips are dry for the easiest and best application! If the lips are wet the product glides off and doesn’t adhere. Additionally, the balm isn’t sticky which doesn’t weigh down the lips or make them feel tacky.
I love the darkest shade (Be You), as it reminds me of the color of Clinique Black Honey almost lipstick. The actual formula is fantastic and leaves my lips very hydrated. Although the clear shade isn’t bad, and perfect for everyday use, I don’t see myself reaching for that balm solely because of the slightly oily formula. Out of 5 stars I’d give it a 3.5. I say it’s a pretty middle-of-the-road formula. Having skin-sensitive ingredients is great, but when focusing on how it leaves the lips it’s just solid. It’s better than most balms I have tried, but the mid-quality and small inconsistencies are nothing to be feral about.
The price of one lip balm is $12, which is honestly a steal in comparison to other lip balms on the market. Obviously it isn’t the cheapest possible option available, considering brands such as elf which cost 4 dollars. But, the quality of these lip balms outweigh the price point in my opinion. Balms from brands such as Summer Fridays cost $24, Ole Hendrickson cost $23, Rhode cost $18 and Topicals cost $16.
Obviously if a product is more expensive you expect better quality, but sometimes even that is hard to achieve. Out of 5 stars I’d give it a 4. Cocokind offers a very reasonable price for a lip balm which is great quality and has fewer harsh irritants. Because I had also purchased Cocokind lip balms through their Memorial Day sale, I bought four colors for the price of two.
Finally, design is something else that automatically differentiates a product from another. It’s important to have something that’s recognizable and stands out since marketing is so crucial. The Cocokind lip balm is different from other balms because of the cap. There is a loop which is perfect for adding charms or attaching the balm to a set of keys. This is such a simple and cute design choice, which can really allow you to personalize the lip balm to fit your aesthetic or allow for accessibility. The innovation of such a small change truly sets it apart, and I wouldn’t be shocked if more brands steal this idea going forward.
I added on a clip and slipped on a starfish charm which makes all the difference! Something about making a lip balm customizable is so fun, and the possibilities are endless.
The cap also has grooves on it which adds textural difference. Besides that the tube of the actual product itself is very simplistic and clean. Once you unscrew the cap there is an applicator similar to that of Summer Fridays which people tend to praise via social media. It’s a clear silicone-like applicator that curves and allows for a soft and easy application!
“The slightly curved applicator might not be noted by all, but I think it’s pretty cool. I can’t quite put my finger on why, but when you apply it, it just feels like it’s hugging your entire lip, rather than just covering the outer edge,” said Philippa Pearne, regarding the Summer Fridays lip balm.
Ultimately, I love this lip product, especially the design. I cannot get over how adorable and functional such a small design choice can be. Overall, the Cocokind lip balm has gained a lot of hype for an understandable reason. Their design is something that more brands need to focus on: functionality and customization. The price is unbeatable and reasonable. Formula is decent and suitable for those who have skin sensitivity issues. Is it the best lip product on the market? No, but it’s pretty darn close!
