NDA'S LIP BALM BASE

DO I NEED LIP BALM WITH SPF?

The lips are the most neglected area of skin when it comes to applying sunscreen, and lip balm bases, finished lip balms, and other lip products alone do not, unfortunately, guarantee sun-protective properties simply by concealing the skin of the lips. Additionally, applying sunblock directly to the lips can potentially cause skin irritation for some sensitive skin types.

The luster and intense hydration of some non-protective lip products can, conversely, invite sunlight to penetrate deeper into the skin and thereby compromise the skin’s defense. To prevent this susceptibility and to create a hydrating yet protective lip balm, an ingredient with SPF should be added to lip product formulations to guard against the harsh and drying effects of exposure to UV radiation.

IS ZINC OXIDE SAFE IN LIP BALM?

Zinc Oxide can be a natural cosmetic additive that has SPF and can exhibit remarkable results for skin health, especially in lip balms. When applied topically, Zinc Oxide remains on the skin’s surface, forming a coating that functions as a protective agent, notably against the harmful effects of UV radiation and environmental irritants. Ensure that Zinc Oxide in lip balms is always food-grade.

Learn more about NDA’s Zinc Oxide (USP) Raw Material.

To make all-natural sun-protective lip balms, choose one of the suggested Natural Butters with high SPF from the chart above. Alternatively, any Carrier Oil can be chosen. Recommended oils include Castor and Jojoba.

A SIMPLE LIP BALM RECIPE

Apparatus

• Lip Balm Base (1 lb)
• Lip Balm Tubes/Tins
• Lip Balm Filling Tray
• Ingredient Weighing Scale
• Preferred additives
• Hair Net
• Gloves
• Microwave/Double-Boiler
• Heat-safe spoon
• Heat-safe container
• Thermometer
• Measuring Cup with an easy-pour spout
• Funnel, pipettes, or baster

Directions

1. Begin by ensuring that all lip balm tubes are fitted into the lip balm filling tray.

2. Place the Lip Balm Base in a heat-safe container and melt it on low heat until it liquifies. If using the microwave, melt it in intervals and avoid going over 30 second intervals.

3. Once the base has liquified, remove the container from the heat and pour the base into the measuring cup. At this stage, immediately stir in all additives at their appropriate usage rates.

4. Allow the base to cool to 60°C (135°F) or lower inside the measuring cup, then pour it into the lip balm tubes (or tins). If the tubes are filled when the base is too hot, the heat can warp the plastic of the lip balm tube or cause the lip balm itself to crack. If the measuring cup’s spout does not help channel the base into the tubes/tins, a funnel, plastic pipettes, or a baster might help make this easier.

5. If the base begins to harden before all the tubes/tins have been filled, it can be reheated.

6. The tubes/tins can be cooled and allowed to harden either at room temperature or in the refrigerator.

7. Once the lip balms have hardened in their tubes/tins, they can be capped and used. Avoid capping still-warm lip balms, as this can create condensation inside the tube.

POTENTIAL SIDE EFFECTS

As with all other New Directions Aromatics products, all the products listed in this article are for external use only. It is imperative to consult a medical practitioner before using them for therapeutic purposes. Pregnant and nursing women are especially advised not to use any of the aforementioned skincare products without the medical advice of a physician, as they may have effects on certain hormone secretions and it is unclear whether these effects are transferable to babies at these stages of development. These products should always be stored in areas that are inaccessible to children.

Those with the following health conditions are especially recommended to be advised by a physician: cancer, heart-related ailments, skin disorders or allergies, hormone-related ailments, or epilepsy. Individuals that are taking prescription drugs, undergoing major surgery, or who are at a greater risk of experiencing strokes, heart attacks, or atherosclerosis are also advised to seek medical consultation prior to use.

Prior to using any Essential Oil, a skin test is recommended. This can be done by diluting 1 drop of the Essential Oil in 4 drops of a Carrier Oil and applying a dime-size amount of this blend to a small area of skin that is not sensitive. Essential Oils must never be used near the eyes, inner nose, and ears, or on any other particularly sensitive areas of skin. Potential side effects of Essential Oils include redness, rash, hives, burning, bleeding disorders, decreased speed of healing, low blood pressure, dizziness, headache, nausea, diarrhea, convulsions, and rapid heartbeat. In the event of an allergic reaction, discontinue use of the products and see a doctor, pharmacist, or allergist immediately for a health assessment and appropriate remedial action. To prevent side effects, consult with a medical professional prior to use.