There are those who can’t live without lip balms, and others who only purchase lip balms as an afterthought at the grocery store. You know those people, the ones that load their groceries on the conveyor belt and snag a lip balm just because. Lip balm is not a “just because” item, people. Your lips require extra love and attention, and the best way to do that is to supply them with natural, non-toxic ingredients.
You can’t get much more non-toxic than making your own lip balm. And don’t worry about it costing an arm and a leg because that is not the case. Not only do the ingredients in this lip balm make your lips feel hydrated and moisturized, but they also smell incredible. In fact, this lip balm smells so great that you may want to eat it! Please don’t, though, because you don’t need to eat a combination of oils, shea butter, and beeswax. To learn more about some of the standout ingredients in this cinnamon honey lip balm, continue reading.
Honey
Honey is a great ingredient to use for dry or chapped lips. Researchers note that honey exhibits antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and wound-healing properties. It won’t heal a giant gash in your arm, but it may accelerate the healing of small cracks in the skin. Applying honey to dry or chapped lips can protect them from cracking or infection. Additionally, honey can promote healing and provide your lips with moisture.
Coconut Oil
Coconut oil is known for its moisturizing properties, making it an ideal ingredient for chapped lips. The reason your lips are susceptible to moisture loss is because the skin is so thin, and they are always exposed to the elements. Coconut oil is an emollient, meaning it helps to keep the skin moist and protected. Emollients trap moisture into the skin, so the best time to apply them is after bathing, or washing your face in the case of a lip balm. Research indicates that coconut oil has potential disinfecting and antimicrobial properties, which may keep your lips germ-free and protected.
Apricot Oil
Apricot oil is a cosmetic oil made from apricot kernels. It has a variety of skin and hair care benefits, but do not ingest it, as it is only intended for cosmetic purposes. In regards to the lips, apricot oil may enhance moisture levels and prevent chapping. The skin can easily absorb this oil, and it applies with a smooth glide. Apricot oil may also soften the skin on your lips and protect them from dryness and cracking. It may even keep your lips looking soft and luscious.
Homemade Cinnamon Honey Lip Balm
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon beeswax pellets
- 1 tablespoon shea butter
- 2 teaspoons coconut oil
- 1 teaspoon apricot oil
- 6 drops cinnamon essential oil
- 1 teaspoon organic raw honey
- 1 teaspoon vitamin E oil
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
- Pour about an inch or so of water into a small saucepan and place it on the stove over medium heat. Place a heat-safe bowl on top of the saucepan to make your own double boiler.
- Add the beeswax, shea butter, coconut oil, and apricot oil to the bowl and heat until completely melted, stirring occasionally.
- Once melted, remove the bowl from heat and then stir in the cinnamon essential oil, honey, vitamin E oil, and vanilla extract.
- Carefully pour this mixture into metal containers or lip balm tubes and allow the mixture to solidify at room temperature.
- Once fully cooled, screw on the tops to the container or tubes and store them in a cool dry place. Use as needed.
