What Is Lip Balm: Recipe Benefits and Usage

Lip balm is that tiny but mighty beauty essential we often stash in bags, car compartments, and desks, ready to save our lips from dryness and cracking at a moment’s notice. It’s one of those things we might use daily without giving much thought to what it’s made of or the full range of benefits it offers.

But what exactly is lip balm, and how can it play a larger role in our skincare routines? This guide dives into everything you need to know about lip balm—from its ingredients to a DIY recipe and tips on getting the most out of it.

What is Lip Balm?

Lip balm is a moisturizing formula that keeps lips smooth, soft, and healthy-looking. Since our lips lack the oil glands found on the rest of our skin, they’re more prone to becoming dry and cracked. Lip balm creates a protective layer on the lips, locking in moisture and preventing the impact of dry air, cold weather, and other elements that might lead to capping.

More than a quick fix, a quality lip balm can be a staple in your daily skincare routine, adding nourishment and keeping your lips in top shape, whatever the season.

What is Lip Balm Made Of?

The magic behind lip balm lies in its blend of moisturizing and protective ingredients. Each ingredient plays a unique role in soothing and preserving lip health. Here’s a look at some of the best ingredients for lip balm:

1. Beeswax or Plant-Based Waxes: Beeswax is a natural thickener that gives lip balm its solid consistency, creating a protective layer on the lips that seals in moisture. For vegan-friendly options, plant-based waxes like candelilla and carnauba wax are great alternatives.
2. Natural Oils: Oils like coconut, jojoba, almond, and avocado oil are rich in fatty acids and vitamins that deeply hydrate the lips, making them soft and smooth.
3. Shea Butter or Cocoa Butter: These rich butters are packed with nutrients and antioxidants that help repair and soften dry or damaged lips.
4. Essential Oils or Flavoring: Adding a hint of essential oils like peppermint, lavender, or vanilla adds a pleasant aroma and even a mild tingling sensation, depending on the oil you choose.
5. Vitamin E: This is a popular antioxidant added to many lip balms. It helps repair and protect skin cells on the lips and extends the balm’s shelf life.

Each of these ingredients has a specific purpose, but together, they make lip balm a go-to for soft, moisturized, and protected lips.

Lip Balm Recipe: Make Your Own Lip Balm

One of the best things about lip balm is that you can make it at home! With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a natural lip balm that nourishes and protects your lips without any synthetic chemicals.

Here’s a quick DIY lip balm recipe to try:

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon of beeswax pellets (or plant-based wax for a vegan version)
• 1 tablespoon of shea butter or cocoa butter
• 1 tablespoon of coconut oil
• 5-10 drops of your favorite essential oil (peppermint, lavender, or vanilla are great choices)
• 1 vitamin E capsule (optional for added nourishment and extended shelf life)

Instructions

1. In a small saucepan or double boiler, melt the beeswax, shea butter, and coconut oil over low heat, stirring occasionally until fully melted.
2. Once melted, remove the mixture from heat and quickly add your essential oils and vitamin E if using.
3. Pour the liquid into small lip balm containers or tubes and let it cool completely before use.
4. Once it’s solidified, your lip balm is ready to use!

This simple recipe is a fantastic way to customize your lip balm with your preferred ingredients and scents.

What is Lip Balm Used For?

Lip balm is incredibly versatile and goes beyond just hydrating your lips.

Here are some surprising uses for lip balm:

• Moisturizing Dry Lips: The primary purpose of lip balm is to provide instant hydration and to seal in moisture on your lips, especially during harsh weather.
• Prepping for Lipstick: Applying lip balm before your lipstick helps create a smooth base, which not only makes the lipstick apply more evenly but also makes it last longer without settling into fine lines.
• Soothing Chapped Noses: If you’re dealing with a cold or allergies, a little bit of lip balm around your nostrils can help soothe and prevent chapping.
• Facial usage: Believe it or not, with a clear lip balm, you can double facial advantages. It can also be used as a brow gel or highlighter! Use a tiny dab on your brows to keep them in place or on your cheekbones to add a subtle, dewy glow.
• Softening Cuticles and Dry Skin Spots: Need a quick fix for dry cuticles or small rough patches on your skin? A dab of lip balm can work wonders until you’re able to moisturize.

Lip Moisturizer or Ointment First: What’s Your Pick?

If you’re someone who has chapped or cracked lips frequently, you might wonder about the correct order for applying lip balm or ointment. Should you use a lip moisturizer or ointment first? 

Let’s find out.

For severely chapped or cracked lips, an ointment like petroleum jelly or a medical-grade lip ointment can be applied first. This helps repair the lip barrier and provides intensive hydration. After your lips begin to heal, switch to using a hydrating lip balm daily to maintain moisture levels and prevent future dryness. In other words, think of ointment as a “rescue” solution and lip balm as your “maintenance” solution.

Benefits of Using Lip Balm

Adding lip balm to your routine offers more than just soft, moisturized lips. Here are the main benefits of using lip balm:

• Moisture Retention: A good lip balm helps lock in moisture, preventing water loss from the lips even in dry or cold weather.
• Prevents Cracking and Peeling: Dry, unprotected lips can easily crack and peel, which can be painful and even lead to infections. Lip balm keeps your lips hydrated and helps avoid this.
• Protects Against Environmental Damage: Wind, sun, and cold weather are particularly hard on lips. Lip balms with SPF protect against UV damage, while others help create a barrier against wind and pollution.
• Enhances Lip Appearance: Hydrated lips naturally look plumper, healthier, and more youthful. Lip balm can add a slight shine, making lips look fresh and supple.
• Subtle Scent and Flavor: If you choose a flavored or scented balm, it can be a quick mood booster and add a little bit of indulgence to your day!

Best Ingredients for Lip Balm: What to Look for and Avoid

Choosing high-quality ingredients is essential for a lip balm that not only feels good but is safe for your lips. Here’s what to look for and what to avoid:

Look for

• Natural Waxes and Butters – Beeswax, shea butter, and cocoa butter provide a rich texture and lock in moisture without clogging pores.
• Cold-Pressed Oils – Coconut, jojoba, and almond oils are highly nourishing and packed with vitamins and antioxidants.
• Essential Oils or Plant Extracts – Essential oils like peppermint, chamomile, and vanilla are natural and add a pleasant aroma without synthetic additives.

Avoid

• Parabens and Synthetic Preservatives – These can sometimes cause irritation, especially for sensitive skin.
• Artificial Flavors and Fragrances – Synthetic flavors and fragrances may cause allergies or reactions, especially for sensitive lips.
• Excessive Menthol or Camphor – Although menthol and camphor provide a cooling sensation, they can dry out lips if used too frequently.

Lip Balm vs. Natural Oils: Which is Better?

Natural oils, such as coconut or olive oil, can work well as a lip moisturizer, but they lack the protective, waxy barrier that a proper lip balm provides.

Oils alone are great for hydration but may not offer lasting protection, especially in harsh conditions. For best results, a combination of natural oils and waxes, as found in most lip balms, will keep your lips moisturized and protected for longer periods.

DIY or Store-Bought: What’s Right for You?

Making your lip balm is fun, affordable, and allows you to control exactly what goes into it. You can avoid synthetic chemicals, fragrances, and preservatives while also customizing your balm to fit your preferences.

However, if DIY isn’t your thing, many natural and organic store-bought lip balms are made with high-quality, nourishing ingredients. Just be sure to check the label and look for brands that keep ingredients simple and avoid unnecessary additives.

Lip Balm Myths Debunked

Myth #1: Lip Balm is Addictive

While some people feel they need lip balm constantly, it’s not actually addictive. If you find yourself reapplying frequently, you might be using a balm that’s not providing enough moisture or is made with ingredients that dry your lips out further.

Myth #2: The More Ingredients, the Better

In fact, fewer ingredients often mean a better, more effective lip balm. Natural, simple ingredients tend to be less irritating and more hydrating. Stick with balms that have five to seven high-quality ingredients rather than long lists of fillers.

Myth #3: Any Balm Works in All Weather

If you’re heading out into extreme cold, wind, or sunshine, look for a balm with SPF for added protection or a thicker balm that provides a stronger barrier. Different conditions may call for different types of lip balms.

Conclusion

Lip balm is much more than just a convenience—it’s a staple in caring for and protecting your lips. By understanding what goes into a good lip balm and exploring creative ways to use it, you can keep your lips soft, healthy, and beautiful year-round.

Whether you choose to make your own or buy from a trusted brand, investing a little time into choosing the right lip balm can have long-lasting benefits for your smile.