How to Manufacture Lip Gloss

There are many methods for making lip glosses and balms, depending on the desired base (beeswax, cocoa butter or petroleum jelly, for example), whether or not a tinted or colored gloss is desired, and what thickness is desired as well. An amateur or hobbyist who cannot get small quantities of things like beeswax or cocoa butter inexpensively is better off using petroleum jelly as a base, unless she is particularly interested in making a lip gloss that is naturally based or organic. Lip gloss can be flavored or merely scented, depending on the wearer's preference. The particular recipe here is fairly simple, and is a great activity to get kids involved in (with proper adult supervision, of course).

Things You'll Need

• Pot with double boiler
• 1 teaspoon grated beeswax
• 1/2 teaspoon petroleum jelly
• 1/2 teaspoon lipstick
• Small tin (or plastic jar)

Instructions

Mixing the Lip Gloss

1. Put about half an inch of water in the bottom of the pot, placing the double boiler over the pot and turning the burner on to medium.

2. Place the beeswax into the double boiler to melt.

3. When the beeswax has melted, add the petroleum jelly and the lipstick.

4. As the petroleum jelly and the lipstick melt into the beeswax, stir them until they are thoroughly mixed.

5. Pour the liquid into the waiting tin or jar to cool.

Tips & Warnings

• To sweeten the gloss, add a drop or two of honey.

• This recipe can easily be doubled, tripled or more with the exact proportions maintained.

• It can be difficult to measure a teaspoon or half-teaspoon of items like lipstick. One teaspoon is equal to .17 oz

• Beeswax has a very high melting point. Do not touch the melted lip gloss until it cools.

References

• CD Kitchen
• Cuisine Cuisine