Homemade Lip Balm

Ireland is an island of many seasons and these constant changes can cause havoc with our skin. We all endeavour to protect our skin during the summer with plenty of SPF and exfoliation but our lips are often ignored. The weather here is so changeable that our peckers can become chapped and dry, traits which just aren't attractive for our smiles. I was looking around for recipes for homemade lip balm because I only wanted to use natural ingredients. I'm trying really hard to cut down on all the chemicals I use on my skin and face so when I find myself needing a remedy for my body, I'm looking more and more to products that aren't harsh on my skin. I found a really simple guide to making homemade lip balm that nourishes lips and keeps them lovely and moisturised (and glossy!) and decided to give it a whirl. The recipe can be modified any way you like so you can include different essential or flavour oils although I chose vanilla extract because it reminds me of summer! I also ordered some cute labels from this Etsy shop so I can give some of my homemade products to friends and family - maybe one day I might even sell them!

---

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup of coconut oil
• 2 tbsp beeswax pellets
• 750 IU Vitamin E
• 20 drops of vanilla extract

You'll also need some small containers for the balm - I ordered some of these from Amazon. Method In a microwave proof container with a spout, heat the pellets and the coconut oil together 30 seconds at a time until the mixture is completely melted. Add the vanilla extract and completely mix through. Pour the mixture in to the containers and leave to set for half an hour. You'll find the mixture sets really quickly so make sure to move fast! I got about 400ml out of this recipe, enough to fill 40 containers - lots to give out to friends!