In the last couple of years I became more and more aware of the hidden chemicals in the products we use daily. As women we’re unfortunately exposed to more toxins in our daily beauty regime. A simple act of applying lipstick means you are exposing your body to toxins such as lead. But how do you make natural non-toxic free lipstick (without lead)?
But just like there is an alternative to cow’s milk, there are also alternatives to your daily beauty products. You can swap your deodorant for a healthier version, you can adjust your skin care routine, and you can also opt for natural make up. One of my favorite things to make (and to wear) is this all natural lipstick.
I think you will love this lipstick! It’s a rich, pigmented, easy to make and affordable lipstick while also being natural, safe and cruelty free.
Lead in lipstick
Lipstick is not as innocent as it seems. Conventional lipstick can be a source of harmful chemicals and since it is used near the mouth, the chemicals are easy to be absorbed. This DIY lipstick variation will let you create a personalized lipstick color that is chemical free, easy and inexpensive to make.
If you aren’t a fan of colored lip sticks, you can make this recipe without any added color options or use honey instead for a light sheer.
What do you need to make natural lipstick?
- 1 teaspoon beeswax or cocoa butter
- 2 teaspoons shea butter or cocoa butter
- 1 teaspoon coconut oil
Color add-ins to create the color you like, but you could stop here if you just want a good nourishing balm.
- For red: 1/8 teaspoon of beet root powder, 1 drop of natural red food coloring with no chemical additives (add these very slowly as a little goes a long way) or use red beet juice
- For brown/tan: 1/4 teaspoon (or more for color) of organic cocoa powder, a tiny pinch of cinnamon or turmeric to get the shade you want. Or 1 tsp red reef clay.
- To darken the color: 1/4 teaspoon activated charcoal.
- For a matte texture: 1/4 teaspoon bentonite clay– I use this with a color so it doesn’t leave a white tint.
- For a scent: A drop of essential oil of choice, a few drops of peppermint or cinnamon essential oil (optional).
How to make natural lipstick?
Melt the beeswax, shea butter/cocoa butter and coconut oil in a pan or small pot above simmering (not boiling) water. It should melt quickly because you’re using only small amounts of each ingredient.
Once melted, remove from heat and add the optional ingredients such as a color or scent. To get the hue as on the picture, I used a tiny pinch of beet root powder (1/8 tsp or less), a few drops of beet root juice, 1/4 teaspoon bentonite clay, 1/8 tsp cinnamon and 1 tsp red reef clay. There is really no true or wrong way of making your lipstick. It’s a matter of playing with the ingredients to create a darker or lighter color.
Once all ingredients are mixed, pour into a lipbalsem container. I used an old lipbalm container from when I once bought lipstick. Fill just below the top because it can expand a bit when it cools. Leave to cool for at least half an hour. Store in a cool place (under 23 Celsius degrees) or it will soften.
Have you ever made your own cosmetics? Share below!
photos by the green creator (c) (copyright)
