Lip balm, an essential cosmetic for any climate or season, is fun and easy to make, and makes a great token of appreciation, party favor or stocking stuffer. With little supervision, young chemists or those more experienced can create their own variations. Start with these five recipes and tips, then experiment and apply your own flair.
Materials need:
Measuring cups/spoons
Wooden Spoon
Double Boiler
Eye Dropper
Small Containers
Instructions
Add oils and wax products to the top of a double boiler and heat until completely melted. Add butters, honey and other meltables (cocoa, Vitamin E, etc.) and stir well. Remove from heat and allow to slightly cool. Add essential oils and flavorings when slightly cool and stir. Pour mixture into sanitized containers and refrigerate.
This basic recipe can easily be adapted to suit any taste by adding a few drops of essential oil (any flavor) in addition to or instead of the vitamin E capsule contents. The capsule contents add protection for your lips while the oils will add scent and flavor. Peppermint, Lemon or Cherry are favorite selections. Essential oils will deplete the sweetness of the honey; though the texture will remain the same.
Basic Lip Balm Recipe (unflavored)
2 Tbls Olive Oil (light and unflavored)
1 Tbl Wax Pellets – White or Yellow in color
1 Vitamin E Capsule Contents
½ Tsp Honey – adds a bit of sweetness and texture
10-12 Drops Essential Oils (optional)
This recipe is a great beginner recipe and results in a sweet, smooth balm.
2 Tbls Wax Pellets – White or Yellow in color
2 Tbls Sweet Flavored Oil (Almond/Walnut/Rosemary/Peach)
2 Vitamin E Capsule Contents
10-20 Drops Essential Oil to match the flavored oil
This chocolate flavored lip balm is a hit with those who must have a daily fix. Be certain to use real bar chocolate not powdered cocoa. Be cautious about adding too much as this balm can easily become a candy if too much chocolate is added.
2 Tbls Olive Oil (light and unflavored)
1 Tbl Wax Pellets – White or Yellow in color
1 Vitamin E Capsule Contents
1 Tbls Grated Chocolate (even mint or orange flavored will work)
10-12 Drops Essential Oil to match the cocoa, mint or orange of the chocolate
For those leftover lipsticks that were just the perfect color; try mixing them into a basic, very smooth balm to extend the life and color.
2 Tsps of Wax
8 Tsps of Sunflower or Vegetable Oil
10-12 Drop of Essential Oil (your favorite)
ÂĽ Tsp or a Dab of leftover lipstick in that favorite color
For the youngest chemists, try this very simple lip balm recipe – it works well as a party activity and take home favor.
Mix together a few tablespoons of petroleum jelly, flavored “pixie” or sugar sticks and a few drops of food coloring. Mix very well until the “pixie” stick grains have dissolved. Feel free to add more food coloring or flavoring if needed. Place into sanitized containers and refrigerator for about five minutes. Apply and smile, you’ve just made instant lip balm.
Some tips and tricks to getting your lip balm just right.
Sterilize containers by simply washing them in the dishwasher or clean by hand and rinse with water tainted with a small amount of bleach.
Essential oils can break apart when added to a very hot mixture; allow the wax mixture to slightly cool before adding.
Use glass or porcelain bowls and wood utensils. If metal must be used, avoid aluminum and non-stick surfaces.
To add vitamin E, poke a hole in the capsule with a pin and squeeze out the contents. Discard the capsule.
Avoid using nut oils if allergic reactions are a concern.
Be certain to label ingredients if presenting homemade lip balm as gifts.
Beeswax pellets are the best wax pellets to use for a balm consistency. Regular candle wax pellet will create a harder balm.
Experiment as you feel confident and don’t be afraid to gift those around you asking for their unique insight.
