I remember finding out that a certain cult lip balm was mostly made from toxic petroleum. But it’s not on the label… anywhere, I’d said. And no it wasn’t (and still isn’t). Why? Because, apparently, when a product is two ounces and under, not all ingredients have to be listed.
I’m definitely not keen to line the pockets of beauty companies who rely on loopholes and unsuspecting consumers, thanks very much. As for putting petroleum on my lips, that ain’t gonna happen!
Just because this above-mentioned brand isn’t exactly being transparent, doesn’t mean lip balm lovers should lose hope. I sure haven’t. Here are some of my favourite all-natural discoveries that will soothe dry, cracked lips in winter and nourish during dry summers.
If you have a favourite please tell me about them below. I’d love to know!
Metta Skincare Lip Balm, $12
If you’re in the Southern Hemisphere winter chill right now, pop this in your bag for some nourishment on the go. A rich blend of oils and butters traditionally used for moisturising and protecting the skin against the drying effects of the sun, wind or cold.
Suitable for all skin types.
Ingredients
Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil, Prunis Amygdalus Dulcis (Almond) Oil*, Beeswax*, Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Oil*, Theobroma Cacao (Cocoa) Seed Butter*, Calendula Flowers*, Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) Essential Oil* (contains linalyl acetate, linalool and limonene as naturally occurring components of lavender essential oil)
* denotes certified organic ingredient
Qsilica Paw Paw Rescue Ointment, $8.95
All-natural multipurpose Qsilica Paw Paw Rescue Ointment* combines fermented Paw Paw extract in a soothing base that includes mineral silica, shea butter, beeswax, macadamia oil, and calendula extract. Deeply rich and ultra hydrating, I love that it not only works, but is without all of the nasty petrochemicals, artificial colours, fragrances and parabens. I’m not the only one who keeps it with me at all times. It was voted Best Lip Balm at the Beauty Shortlist 2014 Awards.
Ingredients
Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis (Sweet Almond) Oil, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil, Cera Alba (Beeswax-white), Ricinus Communis (Castor) Seed Oil, Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil, Macadamia Integrifolia Seed Oil, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter, Lactobacillus/Papaya Fruit Ferment (Paw Paw) Extract, Hydrogenated Castor Oil, Tocopherol (Natural Vitamin E), Citrus Grandis (Grapefruit) Seed Extract, Silica, Olea Europaea (Olive) Fruit Oil, Calendula Officinalis Flower Extract, Glycerin, Copernicia Cerifera Cera (Carnauba Wax).
Kush Health Lip Balm, $8.50
When you’re looking for a less is more approach to lip care, this is it. Virgin beeswax blend with virgin olive and carrot oil to smooth and revitalise, with a hint of rosemary and orange. Made by naturopaths and great for all skin types.
Ingredients
Virgin bee wax, virgin olive oil, carrot oil, rosemary extract, sweet orange essential oil.
Burt’s Bees Squeezable Beeswax Lip Balm, $8.95
Ingredients
Beeswax, cocos nucifera (coconut) oil, helianthus annuus (sunflower) seed oil, mentha piperita (peppermint) oil, lanolin, tocopherol, rosmarinus officinalis (rosemary) leaf extract, glycine soja (soybean) oil, canola oil.
Lip Luv by Stephanie K Naturals, $3.50
Don’t let the price fool you. This handmade balm is made with sunflower oil, jojoba—and a whole lot of love—to moisturise and soothe chapped lips. Natural cocoa butter protects and retains moisture. Fragrance-free. Layer with lip colour for added moisture and wearability.
