What were you doing in 2009? While the world watched President Obama’s inauguration and cringed as Kanye West interrupted Taylor Swift during her VMA video of the year acceptance speech, Kirsten Carriol made her mark on parched pouts around the globe with the launch of Lanolips. And, with the brand, recently celebrating 15 years of its iconic balm, it clearly has the staying power to match its products.
The birth of Lanolips – voted “The World’s Best Lip Balm” – is proof that necessity is the mother of all innovation. On a fateful flight, Kirsten found herself without lip balm, prompting a realisation. She needed to create a product that truly delivered on hydration. Drawing from her childhood experiences on her grandfather’s sheep farm, she recalled the benefits of lanolin, a natural substance derived from sheep’s wool. Her father’s background as a molecular scientist further informed her understanding of lanolin’s properties. And with this, Kirsten recognised the opportunity to develop something genuine and effective. A range that is now stocked in 4000+ stores worldwide – including Mecca
Central to Lanolips’ ethos is the 101 Ointment Lip Balm – a multi-purpose balm that has garnered a cult following, owing to a Vitamin E rich formulation featuring ultra-pure grade lanolin. Paired with a reputation for providing deep hydration without the sticky residue that often accompanies lip products, this balm has become a staple in many beauty routines. One tube reportedly sells every minute around the globe. And, celebrity fans include Drew Barrymore, Rosie Huntington-Whitely, Chelsea Handler and Sienna Miller.
This week, to commemorate its 15th anniversary, Lanolips launched its latest Delicious Flavours. These include the Drip 101 Ointment Multi-Balm Vanilla, which has emerged as the brand’s most requested flavour. And 101 Ointment Multi-Balm Banana Cream Pie – with hints of biscuit, caramel, and sweet pastry.
A simple balm with 15 years of staying power? (One sells every 30 seconds!) According to the lyrics of another 00’s icon, “This is bananas. B-A-N-A-N-A-S.”
