How to Make Container Balms
Body Balms, Salves & Pot Formulations
Body balm is a concentrated, anhydrous moisturizer made from waxes, butters, and oils. Unlike lotions, balms contain no water and create an occlusive barrier that locks in moisture while delivering nourishing ingredients to the skin. Body balms come in two main formats: firm sticks for targeted application and softer pot balms for all-over body use.
Stick vs. Pot Formulations
Balm Stick
- Waxes: 15-25%
- Butters: 15-35%
- Liquid Oils: 40-70%
- Texture: Firm, holds shape
- Packaging: Push-up tubes
Balm Pot
- Waxes: 5-12%
- Butters: 20-40%
- Liquid Oils: 48-75%
- Texture: Soft, scoopable
- Packaging: Tins, jars
Key Ingredients
Waxes
- Beeswax: Creates protective barrier, slightly tacky
- Candelilla Wax: Vegan, slightly harder
- Carnauba Wax: Very hard, use sparingly (1-3%)
Butters
- Shea Butter: Very moisturizing, creamy
- Cocoa Butter: Adds hardness and snap
- Mango Butter: Lighter, less greasy feel
- Kokum Butter: Dry finish, good for oily skin
Liquid Oils
- Jojoba Oil: Lightweight, mimics skin's sebum
- Sweet Almond Oil: Moisturizing, good slip
- Meadowfoam Seed Oil: Long-lasting moisture
- Argan Oil: Rich in vitamin E, fast absorbing
Basic Process
- 1. Weigh All Ingredients: Use a digital scale for accuracy. Work in percentages for easy scaling.
- 2. Melt Hard Ingredients: Use a double boiler to melt waxes and butters together.
- 3. Add Liquid Oils: Once melted, remove from heat and stir in liquid oils.
- 4. Cool & Add Heat-Sensitive Ingredients: At 140-150°F, add vitamin E, essential oils, or fragrance.
- 5. Pour & Cool: Pour into containers while still liquid. Allow to cool undisturbed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Related Resources
Tip: Use the Help Me Pick Ingredients Wizard
Not sure which waxes, butters, and oils to use? The Help Me Pick Ingredients wizard in the Balm Calculator recommends ingredients and percentages tailored to your product type and texture preference. It includes natural and vegan filters.