Things You'll Need:
- Glass measuring cup
- Microwave oven
- Beeswax
- Essential oils
- Shea butter
- Wooden spoon
- Lip balm tubes or pots
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Step 1
Measure 1 oz. of beeswax and put it in a glass measuring cup. Beeswax usually comes in sheets or beads. Beads are easier to work with when making lip balm because they melt more quickly than sheets.
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Step 2
Add 1 oz. of shea butter to the measuring cup. Shea butter comes from the fruit of the shea tree and is a natural emollient. Use the American Shea Butter Institute's locater to find a local source for this product (see Resources).
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Step 3
Microwave the shea butter and beeswax mixture in 30-second increments until it has melted. Stir the mixture several times to combine the materials.
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Step 4
Add 3/4 oz. of an essential oil such as sweet almond or coconut when the beeswax mixture is still fluid.
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Step 5
Allow the mixture to cool for a few minutes. If desired, add flavorings in small amounts, ranging from 1/4 to 1/2 tsp. depending on individual taste. Peppermint and wintergreen oils produce a minty lip balm. Add lemon oil for a fruity flavor and aroma.
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Step 6
Pour the homemade lip balm into sterile containers before the mixture has completely cooled and hardened. Empty lip balm tubes and pots can be purchased at a beauty supply store, or you can reuse containers that have been thoroughly cleaned.
