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Everyone wants a kissable pout, so at the first sign of chapped lips you start applying the lip balm. But did you know that often times those lip balms dry out your lips even more? There are several natural, organic ways to alleviate your chapped lips without further irritation from the petrochemical-based balms you think are OK.
Organic DIY Lip Balm
One of the best ways to get a lip balm that won't dry out your lips is to make it yourself. You control the ingredients, so you know your lips will be on the mend in no time. Sheherazade Goldsmith, author of "A Greener Christmas," has a recipe for an organic lip balm that also leaves you with a bit of gloss. You can kill two birds with one stone with this recipe. Combine the following organic ingredients in a sterile jar with a lid: 1 tsp. cocoa butter, grated; 1/2 tsp. coconut oil; 1 tsp. sweet almond oil; 1/2 tsp. beeswax; 1 tsp. aloe vera gel; and 2 drops sweet orange or peppermint essential oil. This balm is full of rich butters and oils that will leave your lips moist and shiny. Make a big batch of this stuff and put it in pretty jars, and you also have an awesome gift.
Herbal Lip Balm
If your lips have gotten to the point where they are now painful, there are recipes that call for soothing herbs that will help alleviate your discomfort. Over low heat, allow 2 tbsp. organic coconut oil and 1 tbsp. dried rosebuds (or any dried flower, green tea or herb) to melt and blend together for one hour. Strain with a cheesecloth, and pour back into the pot, this time adding 1 tbsp. organic grated cocoa butter. Let it completely melt and then remove from the heat. Add 1/4 tsp. vitamin E oil along with 3 drops rose essential oil. Pour in a container with a tight lid and let it completely set, usually about three hours.
Store Bought Organic Lip Balms
If you don't have the time or ingredients to make one of these recipes, hit up your local health food store. They will likely have an organic lip balm that you can buy; it may just cost you a bit more than what you are used to paying. "Real Beauty" magazine suggests looking for balms with linseed oil, cranberry seed oil or argan oil for best results.
Preventative Care
Of course you can also take preventative measures to help maintain moist lips. Always make sure you are well hydrated so your skin and lips don't dry out. Also, opt for fragrance-free lipsticks, glosses and chapsticks. According to "Cosmopolitan," the products used for scent can dehydrate your lips.
