Over the years, I’ve developed a variety of lip balm formulations. From a Burt’s Bees imitation to a subtly shimmery tinted balm. This DIY lip balm necklace offers a graceful twist on your typical lip balm.
Before I ventured into crafting my own skincare solutions, my lips were perpetually dry. The array of conventional lip glosses in my bathroom didn’t help. Once I experienced natural lip balm (especially when made myself), I was simply hooked.
Lip Balm Locket
I always keep a homemade lip balm either in my home or in my handbag. But with this locket necklace, you can stylishly carry your natural lip balm everywhere. It’s an ideal Valentine’s Day gift or a stocking stuffer.
Lip Balm Ingredients
Many of my lip balms include coconut oil, but not this one. Although I appreciate coconut oil, its melting point at 76 degrees can be problematic. In a warmer room or against 97.5-degree skin, it starts to melt. While that’s fine if your balm is in a jar, it becomes an issue in a locket.
Instead, I chose jojoba oil as the carrier. It remains stable across various temperatures. Jojoba is one of my top picks because it mirrors our skin’s sebum and is quickly absorbed.
This particular lip balm is firmer than some of my other formulations, making it less likely to melt or leak from the locket. I use my fingernail’s back to apply it to my lips. With a higher beeswax content, less balm is needed to protect my lips.
It’s an excellent shield against chilly winds or sunny days.
Choosing Lip Safe Essential Oils
My initial lip balm formula included peppermint essential oil for a refreshing zing. But I wanted something unique for the holiday season. Most holiday-related oils aren’t lip-safe.
During winter, I diffuse blends with clove and cinnamon, reminiscent of Christmas. Although aromatic, these oils can irritate the skin and must be used sparingly. Tisserand suggests a maximum of 0.07% for cinnamon bark oil, especially for delicate areas like lips.
Luckily, there’s a simple alternative!
I’ve selected orange essential oil with a hint of cinnamon leaf. While cassia cinnamon and cinnamon bark oils may be harsh, cinnamon leaf is safe when adequately diluted. The IFRA (International Fragrance Association) allows 0.5% for lips. This batch uses it at half that amount, 0.25%.
If cinnamon leaf is unavailable, you can omit it. Alternatively, substitute the orange essential oil with another lip-safe option, such as peppermint.
Choosing a Locket Necklace
You can find budget-friendly lockets at most craft stores in the jewelry section or buy one online. I wanted an attractive piece, not expensive enough to worry about damaging. This locket resembles sterling silver for much less. Though minimalistic, its interior wasn’t deep enough to store much lip balm.
I discovered a larger locket that holds ample lip balm. It features several floral designs, which may not suit everyone. Ultimately, larger lockets with deep cavities are preferable.
Leftover Lip Balm
Depending on the size and number of lockets, there could be leftover balm. Pour the remainder into a lip balm tube or jar for use or refills when the locket is depleted.
These nourishing lip balm necklaces make wonderful gifts for daughters, mothers, grandmothers, etc. Don’t forget to craft one for yourself!
DIY Lip Balm Locket
This straightforward DIY guide helps you carry lip balm in style and makes for a chic gift.
Prep Time: 5 mins
Active Time: 10 mins
Cooling Time: 20 mins
Yield: 1.4 ounces
Author: Katie Wells
- Combine shea butter, beeswax, and jojoba oil in a double boiler. Stir occasionally until melted. A heat-safe glass bowl over a small pot can substitute a double boiler.
- As the oils melt, prepare the locket. If it doesn’t lay flat, use tape to secure to the table, leaving the center open.
- When melted, turn off the heat and add essential oils.
- Use a metal teaspoon to pour the balm into the locket. It solidifies quickly, so pour carefully to prevent overflows.
- Allow 10 minutes for the balm to harden on one side. Repeat for the other side.
If there’s leftover balm, store it in a lip balm tube or jar.
Have you crafted homemade lip balm? Share your favorite scents in the comments!
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