How to Make Stick Balms
Lip Balm, Solid Lotion Bars & Push-Up Tubes
Lip balm is an anhydrous (water-free) product designed to moisturize, protect, and condition the lips. Made from a blend of waxes, butters, and oils, lip balm creates a protective barrier while delivering emollient benefits to keep lips soft and hydrated. Because lip balm contains no water, it doesn't require traditional preservatives. However, antioxidants are recommended to prevent oils from going rancid.
Key Ingredients
Waxes (15-25%)
Waxes provide structure and hardness, allowing the balm to hold its shape in a tube.
- Beeswax: Most popular choice, creates a protective barrier
- Candelilla Wax: Vegan alternative, slightly harder than beeswax
- Carnauba Wax: Very hard, use at lower percentages
Butters (15-35%)
Butters add richness, moisture, and help with texture.
- Shea Butter: Moisturizing, creamy texture
- Cocoa Butter: Adds hardness and chocolate scent
- Mango Butter: Light, non-greasy feel
Liquid Oils (40-70%)
Oils provide slip, moisture, and skin benefits.
- Sweet Almond Oil: Light, moisturizing
- Jojoba Oil: Similar to skin's natural sebum
- Castor Oil: Adds shine and helps product adhere to lips
Basic Process
- 1. Weigh Ingredients: Use a digital scale to accurately measure all ingredients by weight.
- 2. Melt Waxes & Butters: Use a double boiler or microwave to gently melt hard ingredients. Avoid overheating.
- 3. Add Liquid Oils: Stir in liquid oils once hard ingredients are melted.
- 4. Cool & Add Additives: Let mixture cool to 140-150°F before adding fragrance, flavor, or vitamin E.
- 5. Pour into Containers: Pour quickly into tubes or tins. Work fast as lip balm sets quickly.
- 6. Cool Completely: Allow to cool undisturbed at room temperature or in refrigerator for faster setting.
Lip Safety Considerations
Important: Lip products require special consideration
- Only use FDA-approved lip-safe colorants
- Use only lip-safe, flavor-grade fragrances
- Many essential oils are not safe for lip application
- Test all ingredients for lip-safe status before using
Frequently Asked Questions
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.