In this day and age where more and more people are interested in sustainability and ethical alternatives, homemade cosmetics are becoming not only a popular trend, but also a way to express your creativity and care for the planet. 

One of the easiest and most fun projects to try is making your own vegan lip balms. This DIY project is perfect for beginners and advanced as it doesn't require complicated ingredients or special equipment. 

Plus, you can rest assured that your lip balm is 100% natural, cruelty-free and customized to your needs.

Why make your own vegan lip balm?

Imagine having a lip balm in your pocket that not only moisturizes your lips, but also smells just the way you want it to and contains no chemicals or animal ingredients. 

Most commercial lip balms contain ingredients like lanolin (from sheep's wool) or beeswax, which are unacceptable to vegans. In addition, they may contain synthetic fragrances and preservatives that can irritate sensitive lip skin.

Making lip balms at home allows you to control the ingredients, minimise waste (for example, by using refillable packaging) and create a product that is kind to nature and your body. 

Plus, it's a great way to spend a creative afternoon, and the finished balms can make a lovely gift for your loved ones.

What will you need?

Before you begin, prepare a few basic ingredients and tools. All of these ingredients are readily available in health food stores or online.

Basic ingredients:

1. Vegetable wax - Ideal is candelilla or carnauba wax, which are great vegan alternatives to beeswax.

2. Vegetable oils - Coconut oil, almond oil, jojoba oil or olive oil are great moisturizing ingredients.

3. Butters - Shea butter or cocoa butter will give your balm a creamy texture and extra nourishment.

4. Essential Oils - For fragrance and other benefits. For example, lavender for soothing, mint for refreshing, or vanilla for a sweet scent.

5. Natural colorants (optional) - For example, beetroot powder or turmeric for subtle coloration.

Aids:

- Small pot and heatproof bowl (for water bath).

- Spoon or spatula for stirring.

- Small containers or tubes for balsam (ideally reusable).

- Dropper (optional, for accurate dosing).

Simple recipe for vegan lip balm

Ingredients:

- 1 tablespoon candelilla wax

- 2 tablespoons coconut oil

- 1 tablespoon shea butter

- 5 drops of essential oil of your choice (e.g. mint or orange)

- (Optional) A pinch of beetroot powder for a subtle pink tint

Procedure:

1. Prepare a water bath - pour some water into a small pot and bring it to a boil. Place a heatproof bowl over the pot so that it does not touch the water.

2. Place the candelilla wax, coconut oil and shea butter in the bowl. Slowly heat and stir until all ingredients are melted and combined.

3. If you want to colour the balm, add a pinch of beetroot powder and mix well until the colour is evenly dispersed.

4. Remove the bowl from the water bath and add the essential oil. Stir quickly.

5. Pour the mixture into the prepared jars or tubes and allow to set at room temperature (about 1-2 hours).

Tips and tricks for the perfect balm

- Experiment with scents: combine different essential oils such as lemon and lavender for a refreshing scent.

- Adjust the texture: if you want a softer balm, add more oil. For a firmer consistency, use more wax.

- Reusable packaging: Old lip balm containers or small jars are ideal for minimising waste.

Backstory: How I discovered the magic of homemade

When I first tried making my own lip balm (with the help of my wife :D), I was skeptical. I thought it would be complicated and the result wouldn't be worth it. But as soon as I finished my first balm with the scent of mint and vanilla, I was thrilled. 

Not only was the balm beautifully scented and moisturizing, but I was also excited to have created something of my own. Since then, I have made dozens of balms that I have given to family and friends. 

Each of them have appreciated not only the quality, but also the idea of sustainability behind it.

Conclusion

Making your own vegan lip balms is a great way to combine creativity, sustainability and taking care of yourself and the planet. 

This simple DIY project allows you to create a product that is not only functional, but also reflects your values. So why not give it a try? 

Prepare your ingredients, engage your imagination and create a balm that's just the way you want it. 

Your lips (and the planet) will thank you!