Lip Collection - Ingredient Guide
Lip Collection - Ingredient Education FAQ
Discover the nourishing ingredients and natural formulations that make our handcrafted lip care products special. From organic butters to botanical infusions, learn what goes into every tube and tin.
What makes your lip balms different from commercial lip products?
Our lip balms are handcrafted using traditional methods with premium organic ingredients. Unlike many commercial lip products that use petroleum-based ingredients, synthetic fragrances, or harsh chemicals, our lip balms feature:
- Organic plant-based oils and butters - Including shea butter, cocoa butter, coconut oil, and jojoba oil
- Beeswax from local Oregon apiaries - Provides natural structure and helps seal in moisture
- Pure essential oils or natural flavor oils - For aromatherapy benefits and natural scent/taste
- No petroleum, parabens, phthalates, or synthetic fragrances
- Small batch production - Ensures freshness and quality
Each lip balm is made in small batches to ensure the highest quality and freshness.
What is Shea Butter and why is it in lip balm?
Shea Butter is a rich, creamy fat extracted from the nuts of the African shea tree (Vitellaria paradoxa). It has been used in skincare for centuries and is one of the most nourishing ingredients for lips.
Benefits in lip balm:
- Deeply Moisturizing - Rich in fatty acids that help soften and condition lips
- Vitamins A and E - Natural antioxidants that help protect and nourish delicate lip skin
- Non-Greasy - Absorbs well without leaving a heavy, waxy feel
- Long-Lasting Protection - Creates a protective barrier that helps prevent moisture loss
- Gentle - Suitable for sensitive lips
We use only certified organic shea butter in our lip balms to ensure the highest quality and purity.
What is Cocoa Butter and what does it do for lips?
Cocoa Butter is a pale-yellow fat extracted from cocoa beans. It's the same ingredient that gives chocolate its smooth, melt-in-your-mouth texture!
Benefits in lip balm:
- Rich Emollient - Deeply moisturizes and softens lips
- Melts at Body Temperature - Glides on smoothly and absorbs beautifully
- Natural Chocolate Scent - Provides a subtle, comforting aroma
- Antioxidants - Contains polyphenols that help protect lips from environmental stressors
- Long-Lasting Moisture - Creates a protective barrier that helps seal in hydration
Our organic cocoa butter gives lip balms their luxurious, creamy texture and subtle chocolate scent.
What is Beeswax and why is it essential in lip balm?
Beeswax is a natural wax produced by honeybees. We source our beeswax from local Pacific Northwest apiaries that follow sustainable beekeeping practices.
Benefits in lip balm:
- Natural Emulsifier - Helps bind oils and butters together
- Protective Barrier - Creates a breathable layer that helps seal in moisture without clogging pores
- Ideal Texture - Provides the perfect firmness for easy application
- Natural Antimicrobial Properties - Helps keep lip balm fresh
- Subtle Honey Scent - Adds a natural, pleasant aroma
- Vitamin A - Naturally present in beeswax, helps condition lips
Beeswax is what gives our lip balms their smooth, non-greasy texture that glides on easily and stays put.
What is Jojoba Oil and why is it good for lips?
Jojoba Oil (pronounced ho-HO-ba) is actually a liquid wax ester extracted from the seeds of the jojoba plant, native to the southwestern United States.
Benefits in lip balm:
- Similar to Skin's Natural Oils - Jojoba closely mimics human sebum, making it exceptionally compatible with lip skin
- Lightweight & Non-Greasy - Absorbs quickly without leaving a heavy feel
- Rich in Vitamins - Contains vitamins E and B-complex that help nourish lips
- Long Shelf Life - Naturally stable oil that doesn't go rancid easily
- Conditioning - Helps soften and smooth lip texture
Jojoba oil helps create a lighter, more easily absorbed lip balm that still provides excellent moisture.
What is Coconut Oil and what does it do in lip balm?
Coconut Oil is extracted from the meat of mature coconuts. We use only certified organic, virgin coconut oil in our lip products.
Benefits in lip balm:
- Lightweight Moisture - Absorbs quickly to soften and condition lips
- Lauric Acid - A beneficial fatty acid that helps moisturize
- Smooth Application - Helps lip balm glide on easily
- Subtle Tropical Scent - Adds a natural, pleasant aroma
- Melts at Body Temperature - Feels luxurious on lips
Organic coconut oil helps create a smooth, easily absorbed lip balm that doesn't feel heavy or waxy.
What is Vitamin E and why is it in lip balm?
Vitamin E (tocopherol) is a fat-soluble antioxidant that occurs naturally in many plant oils. We add extra vitamin E to our lip balms for additional benefits.
Benefits in lip balm:
- Powerful Antioxidant - Helps protect lips from environmental stressors like wind and sun exposure
- Moisturizing - Helps condition and soften lips
- Natural Preservative - Helps extend the shelf life of natural oils and butters
- Supports Lip Health - Helps maintain the natural moisture barrier of delicate lip skin
We use non-GMO, plant-derived vitamin E in all our lip balms.
What are Essential Oils vs. Flavor Oils in lip balm?
Essential Oils:
- Concentrated plant extracts obtained through distillation or cold-pressing
- 100% natural, derived from flowers, leaves, roots, bark, or fruit peels
- Provide aromatherapy benefits through their natural scents
- We use only organic essential oils when available
- Examples: Peppermint, Spearmint, Lavender, Sweet Orange
- Used at safe levels for lip application
Natural Flavor Oils:
- Food-grade flavoring compounds derived from natural sources
- Allow for more complex flavor profiles (like vanilla, chocolate, or fruit flavors)
- Safe for lip application and ingestion in small amounts
- We ONLY use natural, food-grade flavor oils (no synthetic flavors)
- Examples: Vanilla, Chocolate, Berry flavors
Our Commitment:
- All flavor oils are food-grade and safe for lips
- Used within safe limits for lip products
- Many of our lip balms are scented only with pure essential oils
- We offer unscented options for those with sensitivities
What is Peppermint Oil and why does it tingle?
Peppermint Oil is steam-distilled from the leaves of the peppermint plant (Mentha piperita). It's one of the most popular essential oils for lip care.
Benefits in lip balm:
- Cooling Sensation - Contains menthol, which creates a refreshing, tingling feeling
- Invigorating Scent - Provides an energizing aromatherapy experience
- Fresh Taste - Natural minty flavor
- Plumping Effect - The tingling sensation can temporarily make lips appear fuller
Why the tingle? Menthol activates cold-sensitive receptors in your lips, creating that characteristic cooling, tingling sensation. It's completely normal and safe!
We use organic peppermint oil at safe levels that provide a pleasant tingle without irritation.
What is the difference between tinted and untinted lip balms?
Untinted Lip Balms:
- Clear or natural color from the butters and oils
- Pure moisture and protection
- Can be worn under lipstick or alone
- Suitable for all genders and ages
- Shows your natural lip color
Tinted Lip Balms:
- Contain natural mineral pigments (like iron oxides) or plant-based colorants
- Provide a sheer wash of color plus moisture
- Can replace lipstick for a more natural look
- Still provide the same nourishing benefits as untinted balms
- We use only natural, mineral-based colorants (no synthetic dyes)
Both types:
- Same nourishing base formula
- Provide moisture and protection
- Made with organic ingredients
- Free from petroleum, parabens, and phthalates
What makes a lip balm SPF vs. non-SPF?
SPF Lip Balms:
- Contain FDA-approved sunscreen ingredients (like zinc oxide or titanium dioxide)
- Provide measured sun protection (SPF 15, 30, etc.)
- Must meet FDA regulations for sunscreen products
- Ideal for outdoor activities, skiing, beach days
- Should be reapplied every 2 hours for continued protection
Non-SPF Lip Balms:
- Focus on moisture, nourishment, and protection from wind/cold
- May contain natural ingredients with some inherent sun-protective properties (like shea butter, coconut oil)
- Cannot make SPF claims without FDA-approved sunscreen ingredients
- Ideal for everyday moisture and protection
Our Approach: We do not offer SPF lip care at this time.
Are your lip balms safe to eat/ingest?
While our lip balms are made with food-grade, natural ingredients, they are formulated as cosmetic products for external use on lips, not as food products.
What this means:
- All ingredients are safe if small amounts are accidentally ingested (which naturally happens with lip products)
- We use food-grade flavor oils and organic ingredients
- Beeswax, shea butter, coconut oil, etc. are all edible ingredients
- However, lip balms are not intended to be eaten as food
Normal use is safe: It's completely normal and safe to ingest tiny amounts of lip balm throughout the day as you lick your lips, eat, or drink. Our formulas are designed with this in mind.
Keep out of reach of children: While ingredients are non-toxic, lip balm tubes are not food and should not be eaten in large quantities.
What does "Organic" mean on your lip balm labels?
When we say "organic," we mean ingredients that are certified organic by USDA or equivalent international organic certification bodies.
Organic ingredients in our lip balms:
- Shea butter - USDA Organic
- Cocoa butter - USDA Organic
- Coconut oil - USDA Organic
- Jojoba oil - USDA Organic
- Essential oils - USDA Organic when available
Why organic matters for lip products:
- No synthetic pesticides or herbicides
- No GMOs
- Higher quality, more potent ingredients
- Better for the environment
- Safer for your lips (and the small amounts you naturally ingest)
Beeswax: Sourced from local Oregon apiaries that follow organic beekeeping practices (though beeswax itself cannot be certified organic per USDA standards).
Are your lip balms vegan?
Most of our lip balms contain beeswax (from local Oregon apiaries), which makes them not vegan.
Why we use beeswax:
- Supports local Oregon beekeepers
- Creates ideal lip balm texture
- Naturally antimicrobial
- Helps seal in moisture
- Sustainable when sourced responsibly
Why we plan to offer plant-based wax options in future:
- Provides alternatives for those following a vegan lifestyle
- Similar protective properties
- Allows everyone to enjoy our nourishing lip care
All other ingredients in our lip balms (oils, butters, essential oils, flavor oils) are 100% plant-based.
How should I store my lip balm?
Proper storage helps your lip balm maintain its quality and texture:
Best Practices:
- Store in a cool, dry place - Avoid leaving in hot cars, direct sunlight, or near heat sources
- Keep caps tightly closed - Prevents contamination and drying out
- Ideal temperature: 60-75°F - Room temperature is perfect
- Avoid extreme cold - Very cold temperatures can make balm harder to apply
If your lip balm melts: Don't worry! Natural lip balms can soften or melt in temperatures above 95°F (like in a hot car or pocket on a summer day). Simply place it in the refrigerator to re-solidify. The beneficial properties remain intact. You may notice slight texture changes, but the balm is still perfectly safe and effective to use.
Shelf Life: Our lip balms contain natural ingredients with vitamin E as a natural preservative. When stored properly, they typically last 12-18 months. If you notice any off smell or change in color, it's time to replace.
Can I use lip balm if I have sensitive lips?
Yes! Most of our lip balms are formulated to be gentle and suitable for sensitive lips.
Best for Sensitive Lips:
- Unscented/Unflavored - Simple formula without essential oils or flavor oils
- Lavender - Gentle, calming essential oil
- Vanilla - Mild, natural flavor
What makes them gentle:
- Made with organic, plant-based ingredients
- No petroleum, parabens, or phthalates
- No synthetic fragrances or flavors
- Essential oils and flavor oils used at safe levels
- Simple, clean formulas
Avoid if you have specific sensitivities:
- Mint sensitivity - Skip peppermint or spearmint flavors
- Bee product allergies - Choose our vegan options with plant-based waxes
- Nut allergies - Check ingredient lists (some formulas may contain shea butter, which comes from a nut)
Patch Test Recommendation: If you have very sensitive lips or a history of reactions, test a small amount on your inner wrist first and wait 24 hours before applying to lips.
Why do some lip balms feel more moisturizing than others?
The "moisturizing feel" of a lip balm depends on several factors:
Butter Content:
- Higher shea butter or cocoa butter = richer, more emollient feel
- More oils (jojoba, coconut) = lighter, more easily absorbed feel
Wax Ratio:
- More beeswax = firmer texture, longer-lasting protection
- Less beeswax = softer, creamier application
Oil Types:
- Heavier oils (like castor oil) = more moisturizing feel
- Lighter oils (like jojoba) = less greasy, more absorbed feel
All our lip balms are moisturizing and offer long-lasting protection - the difference is in texture and feel, not effectiveness.
How often should I apply lip balm?
There's no "right" answer - it depends on your lips' needs and environmental conditions!
General Guidelines:
- As needed - Apply whenever your lips feel dry or tight
- Preventatively - Apply before going outside in cold, wind, or sun
- After eating/drinking - Reapply after meals or beverages
- Before bed - Apply a generous layer as an overnight treatment
- Morning routine - Apply as part of your daily skincare
You may need more frequent application if:
- You're in a dry climate or heated indoor environment
- You're outdoors in cold, wind, or sun
- You're at high altitude
- You're dehydrated (drink more water!)
- You're a mouth breather or lick your lips frequently
Can you use too much? Generally, no! Natural lip balms are safe to use as often as needed. However, if you find yourself constantly reapplying and your lips never feel better, you may have an underlying issue (like dehydration, vitamin deficiency, or sensitivity to an ingredient) - consult a healthcare provider.
Can I use lip balm on other dry areas?
Absolutely! Our lip balms are made with skin-safe, nourishing ingredients that work beautifully on other dry areas:
Great uses beyond lips:
- Cuticles - Soften and condition dry cuticles
- Dry knuckles - Moisturize rough, cracked knuckles
- Eyebrows - Tame and condition unruly brows
- Small dry patches - Spot-treat dry areas on face or hands
- Paper cuts - Soothe and protect minor skin irritations
- Hangnails - Soften and condition
The rich, emollient formula that's perfect for delicate lip skin works just as well on other areas that need extra moisture and protection!
What does "Phthalate-Free" and "Paraben-Free" mean?
Phthalates:
- Synthetic chemicals often used to make fragrances last longer
- Found in many conventional cosmetics
- Potential hormone disruptors
- We NEVER use phthalates in any of our products
Parabens:
- Synthetic preservatives (methylparaben, propylparaben, etc.)
- Used to extend shelf life in conventional cosmetics
- Potential hormone disruptors
- We use natural preservation methods instead (vitamin E, proper formulation)
Our Commitment: All our lip balms are free from phthalates, parabens, petroleum, synthetic fragrances, and other questionable ingredients. We use only natural, plant-based ingredients that are safe for your lips and the environment.
Why don't you use petroleum jelly in your lip balms?
Petroleum jelly (petrolatum) is a common ingredient in many commercial lip products, but we choose not to use it for several reasons:
Why we avoid petroleum:
- Petroleum-based - Derived from crude oil, a non-renewable resource
- Occlusive but not nourishing - Creates a barrier but doesn't actually moisturize or nourish lips
- Can trap in dryness - If lips are already dry, petroleum just seals in the dryness
- Environmental concerns - Petroleum extraction and processing have environmental impacts
- Not aligned with our values - We're committed to plant-based, sustainable ingredients
Our plant-based alternative: We use organic shea butter, cocoa butter, and beeswax to create a protective barrier that ALSO nourishes and moisturizes lips with vitamins, fatty acids, and antioxidants. You get protection AND nutrition!
Have more questions about our lip balm ingredients? Contact us - we're here to help!
