Lip masks have been having a moment lately, but we cannot forget the humble lip balms that have been by our side since day one. Both can help restore and heal your chapped lips. As much as we love them, you might be wondering if they both deserve a spot in your routine. We hate to choose one because we love them both, but are they the same? Don't they do the same thing? 

Despite having similar benefits, lip masks and lip balms couldn't be more different. Both have a place in your routine.

Read on to learn all about the differences between lip masks and lip balms. 

Lip Masks 

Lip masks will deliver hydration to your lips. Think of them as like face masks, except they're for your lips. They can hydrate, soften, and improve the look and feel of your skin. 

Tatcha said lip masks contain healing ingredients, which can include cocoa butter, vitamin E, and oils. A lot of lip masks can also help your lips look and feel plumper. Between lip balms and lip masks, the latter tend to have stronger and more powerful ingredients.  

Typically, lip masks are meant to be used overnight, like an overnight mask, but you do not need to wipe them off. You can wear them during the day as well. When it comes to lip masks, they tend to be a lot thicker than lip balms. 

Lip Balms

Lip balms are products that use waxes, which can help hydrate your lips and seal in moisture. Lip balms aren't quite as powerful as lip masks, and you need to continue reapplying them to keep them effective. 

Lip balms' texture and feel are lighter than those of lip masks, which is one of the reasons we love them. Another difference is that lip balms are much better for on-the-go use, and their applicator is easy to use. 

Lip balms also focus on surface-level protection but can sometimes penetrate deeper, whereas lip masks are all about deeper levels of hydration.