How to make lip balm at home? Why did natural ingredients burn my lips?

7 mistakes when making lip balms at home

Author

M Hallam
April 09, 2024

Picture this: You've crafted a homemade lip balm from an online recipe, only to find your lips ablaze with an uncomfortable burning sensation. In this captivating read, I delve into the intriguing world of lip balms. We'll explore their importance, uncover common pitfalls to avoid during crafting, master the art of safe and nourishing formulation, and to sweeten the deal, I'll share two delectable yet wholesome recipes.

The skin on your lips consists of only 3-5 cellular layers, making it more vulnerable to dryness and chapping. Unlike the skin on your face, which contains up to 16 layers, lip skin lacks sweat glands and sebum production. This absence of natural oils and moisture retention mechanisms leads to quicker dehydration and susceptibility to damage.

Chapped lips are a common result of this lack of moisture and protection. Lip balms play a crucial role in replenishing this protective barrier. By forming an occlusive layer, they serve two main purposes:

  • retaining moisture within the lips and

  • shielding them from the drying effects of heat and cold.

Creating natural lip balms at home is an enjoyable and eco-friendly way to care for your lips and avoid harsh chemicals. It allows for a level of customization and creativity that store-bought options can't match. You can select from a variety of natural oils, butters, and waxes to create a product that moisturizes, heals, and even lightly tints your lips. Essential oils add pleasant fragrances and additional benefits, ranging from soothing chapped lips to providing a plumping effect.

However, even with the best intentions, homemade lip balms can sometimes lead to adverse reactions.

I’m aware that there is an abundance of recipes and videos on social media showing how to create natural lip balms (and other skincare products), making the process seem so straightforward and effortless.

However, much of this content is produced by inexperienced individuals lacking proper knowledge or training, leading viewers to believe it's entirely safe and easy. I've personally observed numerous mistakes, from incorrect formulas to hazardous ingredient combinations and inaccurate measurements. After watching one of those videos 2 days ago, I decided to write this article.

Understanding the common risks and how to mitigate them is key to ensuring your DIY project is safe and good for your lips.

Essential Oil Irritation: Essential oils are potent and can cause burns or irritation if not properly diluted. Each oil has a maximum dermal limit, and some, like cinnamon or peppermint, can be particularly irritating to the sensitive skin on your lips.

Incorrect measurements: For lip balms you can only use a 0.1 - 1% dilution of essential oils. In addition using too much of waxes will make your balm super hard / unusable and not enough - super soft.

Allergic Reactions: Natural doesn’t mean allergen-free. Ingredients like beeswax, coconut oil, or certain essential oils can trigger allergic reactions in some people.

Rancidity and Spoilage: Natural oils and butters have a finite shelf life and can go rancid, leading not only to unpleasant smells and tastes but also to potential skin irritation.

Contamination and Preservation: Without proper sanitation of tools and containers, or if water gets into your product during production, your lip balm can become a breeding ground for bacteria and mold, leading to skin infections.

Packaging: Natural oils and butters have a finite shelf life and can go rancid, leading not only to unpleasant smells and tastes but also to potential skin irritation.

Storage: Store your lip balm in a cool, dark place to prolong its shelf life. Heat, light, and exposure to air can speed up the oxidation process of oils, leading to rancidity​.

Age and other aspects: Consider the users' age, as some essential oils are not suitable for young children, pregnant women, or individuals with certain health conditions​. Research your ingredients.

Quality and Purity: The quality and purity of essential oils can vary widely between brands. Using therapeutic-grade, pure essential oils without additives ensures that you are adding only the intended natural ingredients to your lip balm​.

Shelf Life: Adding an antioxidant like Vitamin E oil can help extend the shelf life of your lip balm by slowing down the oxidation process of the oils. However, the amount of Vitamin E used should be proportional to the amount of lip balm you're making. I always add 1-2% of the overall formula. The ingredient with the closest expiry date will give you a rough estimation of the shelf life of your balm.

Additionally:

Research and Test: Understand the properties of each ingredient you plan to use, especially essential oils. Perform patch tests to check for allergic reactions before applying any new balm to your lips.

Sanitize Everything: Sterilize all your tools, containers, and work surfaces to prevent contamination. Ensure all containers are completely dry before use.

LIP BALM RECIPES - SAFE, EASY AND DELICIOUS

  1. Chocolate bonanza - lip balm

 2. Protects and Repairs - lip balm

My lip balm.