Shea + Cacao Butter Lip Balm

Place your measured oils, butters, and other base ingredients in a small glass measuring cup or heat-safe glass container. Set the container into a small saucepan filled with about 1 inch of water.

Heat over medium-low heat, allowing the ingredients to melt slowly and gently. Stir occasionally until everything is completely melted.

If your recipe includes powdered herbs, minerals, or other powdered add-ins, add them to the melted oil mixture before adding the beeswax. Stir thoroughly until the powder is well incorporated and dissolved or evenly dispersed throughout the oil.

Once any powdered ingredients have been incorporated (and strained, if desired), add the beeswax. Return the mixture to the water bath and stir until the beeswax is completely melted.

Once everything is fully melted, carefully remove the glass measuring cup from the water bath. Allow the mixture to cool slightly.

Add essential oils, flavor oils, vitamin E, or other heat-sensitive add-ins at the end. Stir well to distribute them evenly throughout the mixture.

Carefully pour the warm mixture into lip balm tubes, tins, or small round containers. A glass measuring cup with a spout makes this especially easy for small batches.

Leave the containers uncovered and undisturbed at room temperature until the balm has completely solidified. Once firm, cap the containers and store as directed by your recipe.