Beeswax is the vital ingredient for making premium lip balms that can soothe chapped lips. The skin of our lips is particularly thin and must be protected from the elements, especially the drying effect of wind. Beeswax’s smooth surface protects lips from abrasive cold air and seals in moisture.
Homemade Lip Balm Recipe
• 3/4 ounce beeswax
• 1 1/2 ounces fixed oil such as sweet almond oil, grapeseed, coconut or sunflower, in any combination you wish
1. Put water in the bottom of a double boiler and put it on the stovetop over medium heat. Once it reaches a boil, reduce heat to simmer.
2. Combine oil with beeswax in the top of the double boiler and melt, stirring frequently. Never melt beeswax directly over a flame as it could catch fire.
3. Once melted, allow mixture to cool to 120 degrees, then pour into lip balm tubes, small pots or slider tins. Makes 12 tubes, each holding about 1/8 ounce.
Learn more about using honey in beauty products in Bee-Friendly Beauty Tips.
Adapted with permission from Honey Crafting by Leeann Coleman and Jayne Barnes (F+W Media, 2013).