Vermont's Original Bag Balm

1. Drugstore.com

With more than 100 reviews on Drugstore.com, Bag Balm gets a perfect score of 5 out of 5 stars, making it, easily, one of the best-reviewed lotions on the site. Almost all users say that it effectively relieves very dry, cracked and rough skin, and most say they specifically like the product for winter skin. Some users say, however, that the product has an unpleasant smell.

Review: Vermont's Original Bag Balm Protective Ointment, Contributors to Drugstore.com

2. MakeupAlley.com

Bag Balm receives more than 100 reviews on MakeupAlley.com (requires free registration), and receives a very respectable score of 4.6 stars. Users here recommend applying the product overnight as it is greasy and doesn't absorb quickly. Some also mention the medicinal smell, but appreciate the fact that it is fragrance-free.

Review: Lotions/Creams - Unlisted Brand - Bag Balm, Contributors to MakeupAlley.com

3. Associated Press

This article, reprinted on the CBS News website, discusses the growing popularity of Bag Balm, an ointment designed to treat the irritated udders of milk cows. The balm slowly evolved into a skin cream as farmers' wives noticed the effect of the balm on their husbands' fingers. It is now used as remedy for all sorts of treatments, ranging from chapped skin to sunburns and saddle sores. This article shares some anecdotes from users but doesn't compare the balm to any other products.

Review: Bag Balm Becomes Popular "Problem Salver", Editors of the Associated Press, Feb. 1, 2010