I Found A $10 Dupe for the Summer Fridays and Rhode Lip Balms

Don't miss out on the latest trends - Sign Up

As someone plagued by perpetually dry lips, finding the perfect lip balm is akin to striking gold. In the year 2024, the battle of lip balms reached its peak, with numerous brands vying to craft the ultimate glossy balm. Amidst this frenzy, Naturium's Phyto-Glow Lip Balm emerged as a revelation, capturing hearts with its affordable price point and an array of color options, igniting a viral sensation on TikTok.

When it comes to lip balms, I don’t settle. I’ve tested my fair share—from cult favorites to indie gems—and I can confidently say that Naturium’s Phyto-Glow Lip Balm holds its own against the luxury crowd. If you’re obsessed with the plush, cushiony feel of Rhode’s Peptide Lip Treatment or the ultra-nourishing, buttery texture of Summer Fridays’ Lip Butter Balm, this might just be your new go-to.

For lip balm connoisseurs like myself, the ideal formula encompasses several key attributes: conditioning skincare ingredients that penetrate the skin, a smooth texture that doesn't parch the lips, and if it offers a hint of tint, all the better. Naturium's Phyto-Glow Lip Balms check all these boxes and more, formulated with phyto-derived esters, shea, cupuacu butter, and plant squalane.

Even after hours of wear (or after sipping on one too many iced lattes), my lips still feel soft, smooth, and conditioned—almost like I’ve been using an overnight lip mask. The formula is enriched with nourishing ingredients like phyto-derived oils and butters, making it more than just a surface-level fix. It’s lip care with actual benefits, not just a shiny distraction.

Dupe for Summer Fridays and Rhode?

As a discerning consumer, I approach lip balms with meticulous scrutiny, and Naturium's offering does not disappoint. Reminiscent of Rhode's Peptide Lip Treatment in its plush, balmy texture and akin to Summer Fridays' Lip Butter Balm in its conditioning properties, this formula strikes the perfect balance between hydration and indulgence.

The texture? Dreamy. It glides on like a balm but has that juicy, high-shine finish that makes your lips look instantly healthy and hydrated. The hydration lasts, sinking in rather than just sitting on top, so your lips stay soft for hours. Unlike some balms that vanish into thin air, this one actually does the work—sealing in moisture, smoothing out dryness, and leaving lips feeling plush and pillowy.

Some glossy balms prioritize aesthetics over function, but this one strikes the perfect balance. It delivers the luminous shine of a gloss without the sticky, hair-trapping situation, while its conditioning properties feel indulgent yet deeply restorative. Even better? The formula has just enough weight to act as a barrier against winter dryness, making it a staple in my cold-weather rotation.

And let’s talk tint—subtle, yes, but effortlessly chic. The sheer wash of color enhances your natural lip tone in that “I woke up like this” kind of way, making it the perfect swipe-and-go product.

Its long-lasting moisture sinks effortlessly into the lips, bestowing a velvety softness that lasts throughout the day. Moreover, its thicker consistency serves as a shield against winter's chill, safeguarding against cracks and dehydration—a godsend for parched lips.

Available in a spectrum of shades ranging from the classic Clear to the luscious Lychee, with limited-edition Juicy Collection hues like Spritz and Plum, and neutral Café Collection tones such as Chai and Spice, the options are as diverse as they are delightful. What's more, this lip balm boasts a light vanilla scent and is cruelty-free, paraben-free, vegan, gluten-free, and synthetic-fragrance-free—a testament to Naturium's commitment to quality and inclusivity.

It delivers high-end results without the luxury markup. Rhode and Summer Fridays both hover around the $16-$24 range, while Naturium comes in at a much more wallet-friendly price—without sacrificing quality. The sleek, minimalist packaging also gives it that chic, top-shelf appeal, making it feel just as luxe as its high-end counterparts.

If I had one tiny gripe, it’s that I wish it had built-in sun protection. Considering how much I reapply lip balm throughout the day, a little SPF would have made this an all-in-one holy grail. But honestly? That’s a minor trade-off for a formula that delivers hydration, shine, and comfort without compromise.

If you’ve been searching for a dupe for Summer Fridays and Rhode, this is it—at a fraction of the price. Affordable, effective, and luxuriously nourishing, Naturium’s Phyto-Glow Lip Balm isn’t just a dupe—it’s a must-have.

Love,

Rae