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Carmex · Moisturizers

Original Medicated Lip Balm Stick

·4.25 ml·Leave-on
67
Some concern

Why this score

Concern40 / 55
  • Menthol: watch if sensitive

How much genuine, cited concern the ingredients carry, weighted by how much of each is likely present and whether the product stays on or rinses off.

Transparency20 / 20
  • No hidden fragrance blend.

Whether the full ingredient list, and any fragrance, are actually disclosed.

Formulation restraint7 / 25
  • 4 known irritant or fragrance-allergen ingredients: Lanolin, Menthol, Salicylic Acid, Vanillin.

Needless irritant or allergen load for the product type. A clean, purposeful formula scores well without any "free-from" theater.

Scored by PlainBody Editorial against the PlainScore method · Label checked July 2026

What’s inside

LanolinWatch if sensitive

A natural wax derived from sheep wool, known for its rich emollient properties and ability to reinforce the skin barrier. While generally well tolerated, lanolin is a recognized contact allergen for some individuals; those with wool sensitivity or lanolin allergy history should patch test before use.

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Cocoa Seed ButterWatch if sensitive

A rich, solid-at-room-temperature butter extracted from cocoa seeds, valued for its intense emollient and conditioning properties. While generally well tolerated, it carries a higher likelihood of comedogenicity, so people with acne-prone skin may want to opt for lighter alternatives.

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Euphorbia Cerifera (Candelilla) WaxGenerally safe

A plant-derived wax extracted from the Euphorbia cerifera shrub native to Mexico and the southwestern United States. It provides emollient and thickening benefits and has a long history of traditional use with no documented sensitization or irritation concerns at typical cosmetic concentrations.

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BeeswaxWatch if sensitive

A natural wax secreted by honeybees, used as an emollient and texture builder in balms and salves. It is generally well tolerated. People with bee or pollen allergies should patch test, as rare sensitization has been documented.

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Cetyl EstersGenerally safe

A mixture of waxes derived from cetyl alcohol and fatty acids, used to thicken and condition cosmetic formulas. Established safety profile from decades of use in personal care products.

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ParaffinGenerally safe

A highly refined, inert petroleum-derived emollient that has been used in cosmetics and skincare for over a century. It creates a protective moisture barrier on the skin and is well tolerated by the vast majority of users, with minimal risk of irritation or sensitization.

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Meadowfoam Seed OilGenerally safe

A lightweight emollient oil from meadowfoam seeds, prized in cosmetics for its stability and skin feel. Very well tolerated with no documented safety concerns in published assessments.

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MentholWatch if sensitive

A naturally occurring compound from peppermint and other mint plants that creates a cooling sensation and may have mild antimicrobial properties. It is generally safe in rinse-off products and low concentrations but can irritate or sensitize some individuals, particularly in leave-on formulas or higher amounts.

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Salicylic AcidGenerally safe

A beta hydroxy acid used to smooth texture and clear pores. Safe at cosmetic levels; can be mildly irritating if overused.

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VanillinWatch if sensitive

A synthetic or extracted aromatic aldehyde that mimics vanilla scent. It is a known contact allergen in people with fragrance sensitivities, and oxidation over time can increase allergenicity, making it a watch-if-sensitive ingredient in cosmetics.

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Lower-concern alternatives

Same category, higher PlainScore.

Cosmetic information for general education, not medical advice. Concern ratings are evidence-graded and cited on each ingredient page. See how we score.