How to make it
- 1Melt beeswax first in a double boiler
Place beeswax pellets in a small glass bowl or pyrex measuring jug over a pot of simmering water. Beeswax has the highest melting point — it needs to be fully liquid before you add the other ingredients.
- 2Add coconut oil and shea butter
Once beeswax is fully melted, add coconut oil and shea butter. Stir continuously until both are melted and the mixture is clear and uniform. Remove from heat.
- 3Cool for 2 minutes then add flavour
Let the mixture cool slightly — test by touching the outside of the bowl. It should feel warm but not hot. Add peppermint or vanilla essential oil and stir well.
- 4Pour quickly into pots or tubes
Working quickly (beeswax sets fast), pour the liquid lip balm into small pots or lip balm tubes. Use a small pitcher or a pyrex measuring jug with a pour spout for precision. Fill to just below the rim.
- 5Leave to set at room temperature
Do not move the pots for at least 1 hour. The lip balm will turn from clear to opaque white as it sets. Once solid, cap and label.
Conventional lip balms are mostly petroleum jelly (petrolatum) — a by-product of petroleum refining. It works by creating an occlusive barrier on the lips, but it does not actually moisturise or heal. Some studies suggest it can actually increase lip dryness over time because it prevents the lips from producing their own moisture. Beeswax creates a similar barrier but also contains vitamin A, which actively supports cell repair.
Key ingredient benefits
- Add 1 tsp castor oil for a glossier, more pigmented finish
- Add a tiny amount of natural lip-safe mica powder for a tinted, coloured lip balm
- Use vanilla extract (not oil) for a sweeter, more edible-safe vanilla scent
- Add 3 drops of vitamin E oil for extra healing properties on severely chapped lips
- Swap peppermint for sweet orange essential oil for a citrus version