Crafting a vegan lip balm allows you to have complete control over the ingredients, ensuring that they are not only cruelty-free but also tailored to your preferences. This guide will walk you through how to make your own vegan lip balm at home.
Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients
For a basic vegan lip balm, you will need:
- Candelilla Wax or Carnauba Wax: Plant-based alternatives to beeswax, which act as a hardening agent.
- Coconut Oil: Moisturises and provides a smooth base.
- Shea Butter or Cocoa Butter: Adds creaminess and additional moisturising properties.
- Vitamin E Oil: Acts as a natural preservative and is great for healing.
- Essential Oils or Fragrance Oils: Optional for adding scent or flavour.
Step 2: Prepare Your Workspace
Ensure that your workspace is clean to avoid contamination. Sterilize all utensils, containers, and surfaces that you will use.
Step 3: Measure Ingredients
Here is a simple formula:
- 1 part candelilla or carnauba wax
- 2 parts coconut oil
- 1 part shea butter or cocoa butter
- A few drops of vitamin E oil
- Essential oils or fragrance oils as desired (5-10 drops)
Step 4: Melt the Ingredients
- Combine the wax, coconut oil, and shea or cocoa butter in a heat-safe container.
- Use a double boiler to gently melt the ingredients together. If you don’t have a double boiler, place the container in a pot of simmering water.
- Stir continuously until all ingredients are melted and well mixed.
Step 5: Add Vitamin E and Essential Oils
Once the mixture is melted and off the heat, stir in the vitamin E oil and any essential oils or fragrance oils you’re using. Mix well to ensure even distribution.
Step 6: Pour into Containers
Carefully pour the melted lip balm mixture into small lip balm tubes or tins. Use a pipette or a small funnel to avoid spilling.
Step 7: Let Cool
Allow the lip balm to cool and solidify completely at room temperature. This usually takes about an hour.
Step 8: Cap and Label
Once solid, cap the containers and label them with the ingredients and the date made. This is especially helpful if you make different varieties.
Step 9: Store and Use
Store your lip balm in a cool, dry place. Vegan lip balm can last for up to a year if stored properly. Apply to your lips as needed for moisture and protection.
Additional Tips
- Texture Adjustments: If the balm is too hard, increase the amount of coconut oil. If it’s too soft, add more wax.
- Testing: You can test the texture of your lip balm by placing a small amount on a spoon or in a small container and putting it in the freezer for a few minutes to quickly solidify.
- Natural Colorants: For a hint of colour, consider adding a small amount of beetroot powder or alkanet root powder.
Creating your own vegan lip balm is not only fun but also allows you to ensure that what you’re applying is entirely natural and suits your ethical standards. Enjoy crafting and using your custom lip care product!