Rhode or Summer Fridays: The Ultimate Showdown of Lip Treatments in 2025

May 1, 2025

In 2025, lip treatments are all the rage, and two brands are leading the pack: Summer Fridays and Rhode. Both offer unique formulas that promise hydration and a touch of color, but which one is truly the best? In this article, we’ll break down the key features of Summer Fridays Lip Butter Balm and Rhode Lip Treatment, comparing everything from hydration to price. Whether you're looking for everyday wear or something special, we’ve got you covered in this ultimate lip treatment showdown.

Key Takeaways

Summer Fridays offers a luxurious, creamy texture that provides long-lasting hydration.
Rhode is more affordable but still delivers solid moisture and a natural tint.
Both brands have a range of colors, with Summer Fridays leaning towards more vibrant shades.
User reviews highlight Summer Fridays as the favorite for daily use, while Rhode is praised for its value.
Sustainability practices are a plus for both brands, making them appealing choices for eco-conscious consumers.

The Contenders in Lip Treatments

Okay, so let's get into the main event! We're pitting two major lip treatments against each other: Rhode and Summer Fridays. Both have a huge following, and people swear by them, but which one really comes out on top? We'll also throw in a classic for comparison.

Summer Fridays Lip Butter Balm

Summer Fridays is known for its minimalist aesthetic and effective formulas, and their Lip Butter Balm is no exception. This balm promises intense hydration and a subtle sheen, making it a go-to for everyday wear. It's packed with shea and murumuru butter, aiming to soothe and nourish dry lips. The texture is super smooth, and it comes in a few different tints, plus a clear version. It's definitely a product that feels luxurious, but does that justify the price tag?

Rhode Lip Treatment

Rhode, founded by Hailey Bieber, has quickly become a beauty world staple. The Rhode Peptide Lip Treatment focuses on restoring and plumping lips with ingredients like shea butter, peptides, and cupuaçu. It's designed to give you that coveted glazed donut look. The packaging is sleek and modern, and the formula is fragrance-free, which is a plus for sensitive skin. Does it live up to the hype? We'll see!

Burt's Bees Tinted Lip Balm

Okay, so Burt's Bees might seem like an underdog here, but hear me out. It's a drugstore classic for a reason. This tinted lip balm offers a hint of color and a dose of hydration with natural ingredients like beeswax and vitamin E. It's super affordable and easy to find, making it a great option for those on a budget. It's not as fancy as the other two, but it's a reliable lip care product that gets the job done.

It's important to remember that everyone's lips are different. What works for one person might not work for another. Factors like climate, skin type, and personal preferences all play a role in determining the best lip treatment for you.

Hydration and Moisture Comparison

Long-Lasting Hydration

When it comes to lip treatments, how long the hydration lasts is a big deal. Nobody wants to constantly reapply! Both Rhode and Summer Fridays aim to provide lasting moisture, but they approach it differently. Rhode focuses on creating a protective barrier to lock in hydration, while Summer Fridays uses a blend of butters and oils to deeply nourish the lips. It's like the difference between sealing in moisture and actively replenishing it. Which approach works best really depends on your individual lip needs and environment. If you're in a dry climate, that barrier might be your best friend.

Texture and Application

Texture is key! A lip treatment could have amazing ingredients, but if it feels gross on your lips, you won't use it.

Rhode's Peptide Lip Treatment has a thicker, balm-like texture. Some people find it a bit heavy, but others love how it stays put. It's often described as having a slightly glossy finish.
Summer Fridays Lip Butter Balm is known for its smooth, buttery texture. It melts onto the lips and feels very comfortable. It's not sticky or greasy, which is a huge plus for many users.
Application is straightforward for both. They both come in squeeze tubes, making it easy to apply directly to the lips. No need for brushes or fingers!

Reapplication Needs

How often do you need to reapply? That's the real test of a lip treatment's hydration power. While both brands claim to offer long-lasting hydration, real-world use can vary. I find myself reaching for Summer Fridays Lip Butter Balm more often throughout the day, especially after eating or drinking. Rhode seems to hold up a bit better in between, likely due to that occlusive barrier it creates. But honestly, it's not a huge difference. Both require reapplication, just at slightly different intervals. If you're looking for something that truly lasts all day with minimal touch-ups, you might need to explore other options, like a dedicated lip mask for overnight use. Or even just plain cocoa butter can do the trick!

It's worth noting that everyone's lips are different. Factors like weather, diet, and even your overall hydration levels can impact how often you need to reapply lip treatments. What works for one person might not work for another, so it's always a good idea to experiment and find what suits you best.

Color and Tint Options

Natural Tint of Summer Fridays

Summer Fridays Lip Butter Balm is known more for its hydrating qualities than intense color payoff. It provides a very subtle, natural tint. Think of it as enhancing your natural lip color rather than adding a noticeable shade. It's the kind of product you'd use if you want a 'your lips but better' look. It's great for everyday wear when you don't want to commit to a full-on lipstick but still want a little something.

Subtle Shades from Rhode

Rhode's lip treatment also leans towards the subtle side. They focus on creating shades that complement a wide range of skin tones without being overpowering. The colors are designed to give a healthy, flushed look to the lips. The shades are buildable, so you can apply more for a slightly more noticeable tint, but the overall effect remains natural and understated.

Comparison of Color Payoff

When it comes to color, neither Summer Fridays nor Rhode are going to give you the bold impact of a lipstick. They are lip treatments first and foremost, with a hint of color as a bonus. If you're looking for a product that delivers significant color, you might want to consider layering these balms with a lip liner or lipstick. But if you prefer a natural, low-maintenance look, both are excellent choices. Here's a quick comparison:

Summer Fridays: Very sheer, natural enhancement.
Rhode: Subtle, buildable shades for a healthy flush.
Overall: Both prioritize hydration over intense color.

For those seeking a tinted lip balm that combines moisture with a touch of color, both brands offer compelling options. The choice depends on your preference for the specific shades and the level of tint you desire. If you want a bit more color, you might want to check out Sky Organics Tinted Lip Balm for a real game-changer.

Here's a table summarizing the color payoff:

Brand	Color Intensity	Finish
Summer Fridays	Very Sheer	Glossy
Rhode	Subtle	Dewy

Price Point and Value

Cost of Summer Fridays

Okay, let's talk money. Summer Fridays Lip Butter Balm typically hovers around $24-$28. It's definitely on the higher end of the lip balm spectrum. You can find it at Sephora, Ulta, or directly from their website. Keep an eye out for sales or bundled deals, which can soften the blow to your wallet a bit. I've seen some people complain about the price, saying it's not worth it, but others swear by it and repurchase religiously. It really depends on how much you value the brand and the experience.

Affordability of Rhode

Rhode's Peptide Lip Treatment is positioned as a more accessible luxury item. It usually retails for around $16. That's a significant difference compared to Summer Fridays. It's designed to be an everyday essential, so the price reflects that. You can usually snag it directly from the Rhode website. The lower price point makes it easier to justify trying it out, and it's less painful to repurchase if you become a fan. Plus, it opens it up to a wider audience who might be hesitant to drop nearly $30 on a lip balm.

Value for Money Analysis

So, which one gives you more bang for your buck? It's not just about the price tag; it's about what you're getting for your money. With Summer Fridays, you're paying for the brand name, the luxurious feel, and the aesthetic packaging. The formula is good, but a chunk of the cost is definitely tied to the overall experience. Rhode, on the other hand, focuses on a more streamlined approach. The packaging is simple, the branding is understated, and the price is lower, but the formula is still effective.

Here's a quick comparison:

Feature	Summer Fridays	Rhode
Price (approx.)	$24-$28	$16
Brand Perception	Luxury	Accessible Luxury
Packaging	High-End	Minimalist

Ultimately, the "best" value depends on your priorities. If you're looking for a treat and enjoy the whole ritual of applying a fancy lip balm, Summer Fridays might be worth the splurge. If you want a solid, effective treatment without the frills, Rhode is the way to go. Consider what matters most to you – the ingredients, the experience, or simply the price – and choose accordingly. Don't forget to check out the hydrating gel for smooth lips for an alternative.

User Reviews and Feedback

Customer Favorites

Okay, so what are people actually saying about these lip treatments? It's all over the place, honestly. Some people are absolutely obsessed, like can't-live-without-it obsessed. They rave about how soft their lips feel and how the products have saved them from chronic dryness. Others? Not so much. It really seems to depend on individual lip chemistry and preferences. I've seen a lot of comments about how the Summer Fridays balm is a holy grail for overnight treatment, while the Rhode one is better for daytime wear because it's not as thick. But again, YMMV!

Summer Fridays: Loved for its rich texture and noticeable hydration.
Rhode: Praised for its sleek packaging and subtle sheen.
Both: Many appreciate the minimal scent and taste.

Common Complaints

Not everything is sunshine and roses, of course. Both products have their fair share of complaints. With Summer Fridays, the biggest issue seems to be the price point. People love it, but they're not always thrilled about shelling out that much cash for a lip balm. Some also find it a bit too thick or sticky. Rhode, on the other hand, gets some flak for being too subtle. Some users wish it had more color payoff or lasted longer. And then there's the whole packaging debate – some find it chic, others find it impractical. It's all subjective, right?

Honestly, I think a lot of the complaints come down to expectations. If you're expecting a miracle cure for severely chapped lips, you might be disappointed. These are great products for maintenance and everyday hydration, but they're not going to magically transform your lips overnight.

Overall Satisfaction Ratings

So, if we had to put a number on it, where do these lip treatments stand? It's tough to say definitively, but based on my research, both seem to hover around the 4- to 4.5-star range. That's pretty solid, but it also means there's room for improvement. I've compiled some hypothetical data based on the reviews I've read:

Feature	Summer Fridays	Rhode
Hydration	4.5 stars	4 stars
Texture	4 stars	4.2 stars
Longevity	3.8 stars	3.5 stars
Price	3 stars	3.7 stars
Overall Rating	4.1 stars	3.9 stars

Keep in mind that these are just estimates, but they give you a general idea of how people feel. Ultimately, the best way to find out which one you prefer is to try them both and see for yourself. Maybe you can find a hydrating lip balm trio to test them out!

Sustainability and Ingredients

Eco-Friendly Practices

When it comes to lip treatments, it's not just about how they make your lips feel, but also about their impact on the planet. Both Summer Fridays and Rhode are making strides, but they approach sustainability in slightly different ways. Summer Fridays has been focusing on responsible sourcing of their ingredients and using recyclable packaging where possible. Rhode, on the other hand, emphasizes minimizing waste in their production processes. It's great to see brands thinking about their environmental footprint!

Ingredient Transparency

Consumers want to know what they're putting on their bodies, and lip treatments are no exception. Ingredient lists can be confusing, but both brands are working towards greater transparency. Summer Fridays highlights key ingredients like mango seed butter on their packaging and website. Rhode also lists out all ingredients, but they also explain what some of the key ones do, like the moisturizing castor seed and coconut oils. Knowing what each ingredient does helps consumers make informed choices.

Cruelty-Free Certifications

Cruelty-free certifications are a big deal for many shoppers, and it's awesome to see more brands getting on board. Both Summer Fridays and Rhode proudly state that they are cruelty-free, meaning they don't test their products on animals. However, it's worth noting that neither brand currently has official certifications from organizations like Leaping Bunny. While they adhere to cruelty-free practices, the official certification adds an extra layer of assurance for some consumers.

It's important to remember that "cruelty-free" doesn't always mean "vegan." Some products might still contain animal-derived ingredients like beeswax. Always double-check the ingredient list if you're looking for a completely vegan option.

Final Verdict: Which One Wins?

Best for Daily Use

For your everyday lip care, it really boils down to personal preference. If you're all about that natural look and want something super comfy, Rhode might be your go-to. It's like that reliable friend you can always count on. But, if you want a bit more color and don't mind reapplying, Summer Fridays could be your daily jam. It's like adding a little sparkle to your day, you know? I've been using Rhode for daily hydration and it's been great.

Best for Special Occasions

When you're heading out for something special, you might want a lip treatment that gives you a little extra oomph. Summer Fridays tends to have a bit more color payoff, making it a solid choice if you want your lips to pop in photos or just feel a bit more glam. Plus, the texture feels a bit more luxurious, which is always nice for a special night. I think Summer Fridays is the best for special occasions.

Overall Winner

Okay, so if I had to pick just one, it's tough. Both are great, but for me, it's gotta be Summer Fridays. The color range and how long it lasts just give it a slight edge. It really depends on what you're looking for. Here's a quick rundown:

Summer Fridays: More color, slightly longer lasting, a bit pricier.
Rhode: Super hydrating, more affordable, great for everyday use.
Consider: Your budget, desired color payoff, and how often you're willing to reapply.

Ultimately, the best lip treatment is the one you'll actually use and love. Both Summer Fridays and Rhode are fantastic options, so give them a try and see which one makes your lips happiest. I've been using lip treatments for years and these are some of the best.

Here's a quick comparison table:

Feature	Summer Fridays	Rhode
Hydration	Excellent	Excellent
Color Payoff	High	Subtle
Price	$$	$
Longevity	Good	Average
Best For	Special occasions, noticeable color	Daily use, intense hydration
Overall Rating	4.5/5	4/5

I've also heard great things about Burt's Bees, but I haven't tried it yet. I'm also curious about the Aloe Vera Magic Color Change Lipstick, but I'm not sure if it's worth the hype. I'll have to do some more research on lip balms before I make a decision.

In the end, it all comes down to which option is the best for you. Whether you’re looking for performance, price, or features, make sure to weigh your choices carefully. For more detailed comparisons and insights, visit our website today!

Final Thoughts on the Lip Balm Battle

So, after all the testing and trying, it’s clear that both Summer Fridays and Rhode have their strong points. Summer Fridays Lip Butter Balm is a real treat for those who want a bit of luxury with their lip care. It feels great and gives a nice pop of color. On the flip side, Rhode offers a more budget-friendly option that still keeps your lips happy and hydrated. If you’re looking for something that won’t break the bank, it’s a solid choice. In the end, it really comes down to what you’re after—luxury or practicality. Either way, your lips will thank you!

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the main difference between Summer Fridays Lip Butter Balm and Rhode Lip Treatment?

Summer Fridays Lip Butter Balm is known for its creamy texture and rich hydration, while Rhode Lip Treatment focuses on lightweight moisture and a subtle tint.

How often should I reapply these lip treatments?

Summer Fridays may need to be reapplied more frequently, especially after eating or drinking, while Rhode tends to last a bit longer throughout the day.

Are there any color options for these lip balms?

Yes! Summer Fridays offers a natural tint, Rhode has subtle shades, and Burt's Bees provides a variety of colors, making it easy to find one that suits you.