While I may be a makeup enthusiast today, back in elementary school, my beauty routine was refreshingly simple. My sole beauty product of choice? Lip balm. Back then, we didn’t refer to it as “balm” — we were more focused on how it tasted than its moisturizing properties. The ’80s were a vibrant era for lip products, bursting with artificial flavors that were a blend of flavors from cherry ChapStick to Revlon Silver City Pink. The colorful packaging and enticing scents made every young girl’s lip care collection feel like a treasure trove.
- Bonne Bell Lip Smacker
What made us think mint and cherry were the height of excitement? Once my older sister got her Strawberry Lip Smacker, I was hooked. Bonne Bell hit the jackpot with outrageous fruit flavors (who among us hasn’t tried to sneak a taste?) and even ventured into candy and soda flavors. Dr. Pepper, Orange Crush, and even the polarizing Good & Plenty were on the menu! I’d trade a week’s worth of my latest lipsticks for a Tootsie Roll Lip Smacker right now. - The Lip Smacker Necklace
Nothing was cooler than wearing a giant Lip Smacker around your neck—a true fashion statement. Imagine walking around with your Bubble Gum Lip Smacker proudly displayed, always ready for a quick reapplication between soccer practice and Brownies, and yes, I might have even worn it to bed over my Lanz flannel pajamas. - The Body Shop Lip Balm
For me, The Body Shop’s Kiwi Fruit lip balm was the epitome of sophistication. I was enchanted by the exotic fruit, and the little tub that you stuck your finger in became a rite of passage. Although I dabbled with Apricot, nothing compared to the luscious green goo that left my lips shiny and glamorous. - Kissing Koolers
Maybelline’s Kissing Koolers were a delight! With packaging reminiscent of cherry-cream Lifesaver lollipops, these balms came in flavors like watermelon and were a perfect blend of style and fun. Wearing something with “kissing” in the name made any nine-year-old feel like a budding romance expert. - Village Lip Lickers
Once I had a taste of Watermelon Lip Lickers, I was ruined for all other balms. This sticky delight was a goopy gloss dream, especially when left in a hot car. I can still picture the moment I slid open that tin—everyone turned to see who smelled so deliciously of fake fruit. - Naturistics Glossy Lip Balm
Naturistics was ahead of its time with eye-catching packaging featuring images of limes and mangoes. Their botanical mint line was perfect for winter, and I loved the technical-sounding name. Who cared if it was “natural-istic” when the product was so enjoyable? - Carmex
Carmex users were loyal and serious about their lip care. With its classic apothecary scent, it was a balm that many tried in their youth and still swear by today. I’ve always wondered why someone would choose this over a fruity Lip Smacker, but to each their own. - Kissing Potion
Another gem for those aspiring to be kissers! The Cherry Smash flavor was an invitation to apply coat after coat, reveling in the mirror reflection of my new glossy lips. - Candy Kisses
Some may argue these belong to the ’90s, but those little tins were a revelation. The mint chocolate flavor was a dream come true, far beyond what I thought was possible outside a Baskin-Robbins. - Zinka
Although technically Zinka Nosecoat was a neon sunscreen, the cool kids wore it as a lip balm, creating that iconic fluorescent smile by the pool. It was the perfect blend of bold and bizarre, a balance I still strive for as an adult.
For a deep dive into retro lip care and parenting insights, check out our post on Modern Family Blog. If you’re interested in at-home insemination options, Make A Mom is a trusted retailer for kits, and for more information about pregnancy and home insemination, visit Healthline.
In summary, the ’80s lip balm scene was a colorful, flavor-packed adventure that many of us look back on with fondness. The nostalgia of those fruity flavors and stylish packaging continues to linger, reminding us of simpler times and youthful joy.
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