Winter is on the way, and that means chapped lips. I go through lip balm so quickly in winter. I have them everywhere - on my bedside table, in the bathroom, on my desk, in my handbag, in the car - anywhere I'm likely to be.
Good quality lip balms are expensive. Good quality lip balms are easy to make, right in your own kitchen, and they're not expensive either!
Peppermint lip balm is my favourite, its refreshing and cool, while soothing chapped lips.
Peppermint Lip Balm
You will need:1 tbsp beeswax
1 tbsp shea butter
1 tbsp cocoa butter
2 tbsp coconut oil
5 drops peppermint essential oil
Heat proof bowl or measuring jug (I use a Pyrex measuring jug)
Small clean containers (I re-use miniature jam jars)
Step 1. Put about 3cm of water into the bottom of a small saucepan. Turn the heat on medium.
Step 2. Put all of the ingredients except the peppermint oil into a Pyrex glass measuring cup.
Step 3. Place the measuring cup into the water in the pan, being careful not to get any water into it. Stir slowly until everything is melted, and then turn off the heat.
Step 4. Stir in the 5 drops of peppermint essential oil.
Step 5. Pour into small containers, and allow to cool and set before using.
Notes:
Flavouring isn't essential, but if you choose to not use it your lip balm will taste "waxy" and bland. If peppermint isn't your favourite taste add another flavoured, food safe oil (any that can be used for cake making and decorating are safe to use in your lip balms).
If you are just starting to make your own lip balms, you can buy kits from craft shops, they are also available online. The individual ingredients are also available online or from craft shops.
I bought my first lip balm kit (now I just buy the ingredients as I need them to make more) from Aussie Soap Supplies (www.aussiesoapsupplies.com.au). You can also buy the tubes, jars and other accessories online.