Chapped lips can be a common and uncomfortable problem, especially during colder seasons when the air tends to be dry. Dry and chapped lips can also be caused by excessive licking, sun exposure, dehydration, or certain medications.
While there are numerous lip balms available in the market, you can easily heal and protect chapped lips naturally with a homemade lip balm. In this article, we will discuss the steps to create your own homemade lip balm and explore a few natural ingredients that can work wonders for your lips.
Gather the necessary ingredients
Before you get started with making your homemade lip balm, gather the following ingredients:.
- 1 tablespoon of beeswax pellets
- 1 tablespoon of shea butter
- 1 tablespoon of coconut oil
- 1 teaspoon of honey
- 5-6 drops of essential oil (such as peppermint or lavender)
Step-by-step instructions
Step 1: Melt the beeswax, shea butter, and coconut oil
In a double boiler or a heatproof bowl placed over a pot of boiling water, combine the beeswax pellets, shea butter, and coconut oil. Allow them to melt slowly over low heat until they become fully liquid. Stir occasionally to ensure even melting.
Step 2: Add honey and essential oil
Once the mixture has melted, remove it from heat and add the honey and essential oil of your choice. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
Step 3: Pour the mixture into a container
Carefully pour the mixture into small lip balm containers or tins. It is best to use containers specifically designed for lip balms. Leave some space at the top to ensure easy application.
Step 4: Let it cool and solidify
Allow the lip balm to cool and solidify at room temperature. This may take a few hours. Once solid, secure the lids on the containers tightly.
Step 5: Apply and enjoy
Your homemade lip balm is now ready to use! Apply it to your lips whenever they feel dry or chapped. The nourishing ingredients in the balm will help heal and protect your lips, keeping them moisturized and soft.
Now that you know the steps to create your own homemade lip balm, let’s explore a few natural ingredients that can enhance its healing properties:.
1. Beeswax
Beeswax is a natural emollient and creates a protective barrier on the lips, sealing in moisture. It helps to prevent dryness and chapping. Beeswax also adds a desirable texture to the lip balm.
2. Shea butter
Shea butter is rich in vitamins and essential fatty acids that nourish and soften the lips. It has excellent moisturizing properties and helps to restore the natural moisture barrier of your lips.
3. Coconut oil
Coconut oil is known for its hydrating and soothing properties. It penetrates deep into the skin, providing long-lasting moisturization. The antimicrobial properties of coconut oil can also help protect your lips from infections.
4. Honey
Honey is a natural humectant, which means it attracts and retains moisture. It helps to keep your lips hydrated and prevents them from drying out. Honey also has antimicrobial properties, promoting lip health.
5. Essential oils
Essential oils not only add a pleasant fragrance to your lip balm but also offer various benefits. Peppermint oil provides a refreshing sensation and has a cooling effect on the lips. Lavender oil is soothing and can help reduce inflammation.
In addition to using a homemade lip balm, here are a few tips to further protect and heal your chapped lips:.
1. Stay hydrated
Drink plenty of water throughout the day to keep your body and lips hydrated. Dehydration can contribute to dry, chapped lips.
2. Avoid licking your lips
Although it may provide temporary relief, licking your lips can actually worsen the problem as the saliva evaporates, leaving your lips even drier than before.
3. Protect your lips from the sun
Apply a lip balm with SPF or use a broad-brimmed hat to shield your lips from the damaging effects of the sun. Sunburned lips can become dry and chapped.
4. Exfoliate gently
Exfoliating your lips can help remove dry and flaky skin. You can use a soft toothbrush or a homemade lip scrub made from sugar and honey to gently exfoliate your lips.
5. Avoid harsh chemicals and irritants
Avoid using lip products that contain harsh chemicals, fragrances, or irritants that can further dry out or irritate your lips.
By following these tips and using your homemade lip balm regularly, you can heal and protect your chapped lips naturally, restoring them to a smooth and healthy state.