Lip balm and Sunblock

Lip Balm

Even the ubiquitous tub of carmex may do more harm than good to windburned or chapped lips, due to ingredients such as Phenol which can actually damage your skin - requiring, of course, more lip balm to correct! See how that works? Here is a very basic recipe for a safe, gentle lip balm:

Restorative Lip Balm

• 1 Tbsp beeswax
• 2 Tbsp coconut oil
• 2 capsules Vitamin E

Grate beeswax if using a solid block. Combined and melt beeswax and oil in a double broiler, microwave, or carefully in a saucepan, over low heat. Add Vitamin E capsules, mix well, and pour into a shallow container.

The recipe above is one of the most basic and effective balms for chapped or windburned lips. Forgo the Vitamin E capsules for a simple lip gloss. Add a few drops of peppermint oil for the refreshing, tingly sensation you get from many commercial lip balms. Look here for more ideas. Beware that honey in some recipes may crystalize and harden.

Sunblock

Unlike chemical sunscreen, Zinc Oxide or Titanium Dioxide based sunblocks physically block UV radiation. Zinc Oxide is widely regarded to be healthier, safer, and more effective across a broader spectrum. Gloves and face protection is recommended while working with either - they are safe to use topically, but inhalation is another matter. Sesame and coconut have also been proven to have sun blocking properties, as well. Below is one of many recipes I found, requiring few ingredients and no special equipment.

Sesame-Coconut Oil Sunblock

• 3 oz Sesame Oil
• 2 oz Coconut Oil
• 2 oz Beeswax
• 2/3 cup Water
• 2 Tbsp Zinc Oxide
• 5 tsp Wheat Germ or Jojoba oil

Carefully warm the oils and wax in a double boiler, stirring until wax is fully melted. Remove from heat, stir in water and zinc, then store in an airtight container.

Zinc based sunblock ointments have largely fallen out of favour, but I'm hoping that using nanosized Zinc Oxide powder and oils, it may be easier to wear and apply then the traditionally sticky cream. We'll see this spring, once I try it out.