How To Make Natural Lipstick At Home Cheaply (4 Easy Steps)

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Stephanie Cole
By 
With her Master of Science in Renewable Energy Engineering (MSREE) from Oregon Tech, Steph is supremely well qualified to write on all aspects of sustainable living. She has already achieved a zero carbon footprint and her goal is to help as many other people as possible do the same. Her other hobbies include music, yoga, swimming and horror movies.
Stephanie Cole
Updated: May 3, 2024

In my non-toxic lipstick article, I revealed the shocking fact that the FDA found lead in almost every lipstick brand it tested in 2010.

I also gave some excellent, non-toxic recommendations to cover all outfit choices and social occasions.

But what if you can't afford non-toxic lipstick or find the perfect color shade for your skin tone? Simple...make your own!

As a little girl, I loved doing arts and crafts. I've combined that child-like joy with my eco-blogger experience to test multiple recipes and discover the best way to make natural lipstick at home.

I'll walk you through every step of the process. From selecting skin-loving natural ingredients to the satisfying moment of popping out your first homemade lipstick.

Why Should You Make Homemade Lipstick?

the results of making your own natural lipstick

Embrace the Power of Natural Ingredients

Making your own lipstick means you can select ingredients that are safe and nurturing for your lips.

Ingredients like beeswax, shea butter, and almond oil aren't just natural; they're nourishing, giving your lips a dose of hydration with a splash of color.

Plus, by removing the harmful chemicals, you're also treating the planet more kindly.

Unleash Your Creative Flair

When you make your lipstick, you're the artist.

Whether you're after the perfect nude that complements your morning latte or a vibrant red that shouts from the rooftops, customizing your color palette lets you match your mood or outfit with precision.

And it's not just about color. You can adjust texture, finish, and even scent.

Cost-Effective Chic

Sustainable, non-toxic products are often more expensive (though worth every penny when you buy the right ones) than traditional alternatives.

You can develop a budget-friendly beauty routine by sourcing your ingredients in bulk and reusing old lipstick tubes.

A Fun, Eco-Friendly Activity

Let's not forget the sheer joy of creating something.

I get deep satisfaction from knowing exactly what's in my homemade lipstick

Plus, I find that homemade lipstick recipes are always a good conversation starter. I love the buzz when asked about a fabulous new shade and reveal that it's my own secret recipe!

What Essential Tools and Ingredients Do You Need?

some of the tools you will need to make your own lipstick

Tools Needed

  • Double Boiler: For melting your waxes and butters gently.
  • Heat-Resistant Spatulas or Spoons: For stirring your concoction smoothly.
  • Lipstick Molds: These come in various shapes and sizes, depending on your preference for the final look of your lipstick. I used these from Amazon and found they worked well (with a thin oil coating on the inside to stop the lipstick from sticking).
  • Pipettes or Droppers: Perfect for adding oils or liquid colorants precisely.
  • Measuring Spoons or Scales: Accuracy counts when formulating your perfect DIY lipstick.
  • Containers or Empty Lipstick Tubes: For storing your finished product. I like to reuse old lipstick tubes whenever possible to save waste.
  • Microwave-safe containers: Only needed if you prefer a microwave for melting ingredients rather than the double boiler method.

Key Ingredients

The magic of your homemade lipstick lies in the ingredients.

Some of my favorites include the following:

Waxes

  • Beeswax: Provides a solid yet smooth base that glides on your lips.
  • Carnauba Wax: A vegan alternative to beeswax, known for its shiny finish and hard texture.
  • Candelilla Wax: Another vegan option. It's excellent for thickening and hardening your lipstick formulation and providing a smooth application.
    Rice Bran Wax: Another vegan wax that is great for its skin-conditioning properties and smooth texture.

Oils

  • Coconut Oil: Hydrates and protects, giving your lipstick a creamy texture.
  • Almond Oil: Rich in vitamin E, it offers moisturizing benefits without feeling greasy.
  • Jojoba Oil: Closely mimics the skin's oils for a natural feel.
  • Castor Oil: Widely used in lipsticks for its shiny, gloss-like finish. I love its ability to form a moisture-retaining barrier on my lips.
  • Avocado Oil: Rich in vitamins A, D, and E. Offers excellent moisturizing benefits, perfect for dry or chapped lips.
  • Grapeseed Oil: Lightweight and non-greasy. Ideal for adding moisturizing properties without heaviness.

Butters

  • Cocoa Butter: Delivers deep hydration and adds a subtle, pleasant aroma.
  • Shea Butter: Known for its healing properties, it's great for soothing chapped lips.
  • Mango Butter: Known for its softening, soothing qualities, and being rich in antioxidants.
  • Kokum Butter: Offers a more non-greasy feel compared to other butters. Excellent for repairing dry lips.

Color Pigments

  • Beetroot Powder: Provides a beautiful pink to red hue, depending on the concentration.
  • Cocoa Powder: Perfect for achieving earthy, deeper tones.
  • Natural Micas: Offer a range of colors and a hint of shimmer for that extra pop. Only use natural and ethically sourced micas.
  • Titanium Dioxide: Provides a natural white pigment that can be used to lighten other color shades.
  • Iron Oxides: Minerals often used for creating natural browns, reds, and blacks. They're non-toxic and considered safe for use in cosmetics.
  • Spirulina: While primarily known for its health benefits, spirulina can also be used in lipstick to give it a natural green color.
  • Turmeric: Adds a vibrant yellow to golden color. It's also known for its anti-inflammatory properties, which can benefit lip care.
  • Cinnamon: Adds a warm, natural tint and helps plump your lips by boosting blood circulation. Its sweet, spicy scent can make applying lipstick feel like a treat.

SPF

  • Zinc Oxide: A physical sunscreen that can help shield your lips from harmful UV rays. It's also great for soothing irritated skin. Use a non-nano to keep it safe and effective without penetrating the skin barrier.

This is a long list of all my favorite ingredients.

Don't worry - you don't need to buy them all (especially when starting out).

Start with a few you think you'll like and experiment from there.

How Can You Source Ethically?

Some ingredients and tools are easier to source than others.

Choosing suppliers committed to quality and sustainability is crucial.

My favorite places to buy lipstick ingredients and tools include the following:

  • Bramble Berry: A trusted brand loved by homemade makeup enthusiasts. One of my favorite and most reliable suppliers of natural ingredients.
  • TKB Trading: Specializes in raw materials for makeup (including bases, pigments, and oils suitable for lipstick making).
  • Era of Nature: One of my favorite sources of high-quality raw butters.
  • Cliganic: Sells a wonderful range of organic skin and essential oils.
  • MakingCosmetics: Sells more bespoke cosmetic ingredients.

What Are the Steps to Making Your Natural Lipstick?

Step 1: Preparing Your Workspace

Start by clearing your work area of any non-essential items.

Make sure your surface is stable and that you have good lighting.

You might also want to cover your workspace with a reusable mat or cover (I use an old organic bed sheet) to catch spills and make cleanup easy.

Before you start, Gather your tools and ingredients so everything is within reach.

Step 2: Melting and Mixing Base Ingredients

Melt your waxes and butters in a double boiler. If you don't have a double boiler, you can create one by placing a heat-safe bowl over a pot of simmering water.

Stir occasionally with a heat-resistant spatula until everything is melted and combined into a smooth blend.

Next, stir in your oils. Add them slowly, mixing thoroughly to ensure a uniform texture.

Keep the heat low, and be patient. This blend forms the base of your lipstick, so you want it perfect. No lumps, no bumps.

Step 3: Adding Color and Scent/Flavor

Gradually add natural colorants like beetroot powder, cocoa powder, or micas.

Start with small amounts, mix, and then add more if needed. Remember, adding more color is easier than taking it away.

Add a drop or two of essential oils (my favorites are peppermint or vanilla) for a touch of flavor and scent.

Mix everything thoroughly to ensure an even distribution of color and flavor.

Step 4: Molding and Setting Your Lipstick

Pour the warm lipstick mixture into lipstick molds. Be careful, as the mixture will be hot. But if you spill a bit, don't worry. It's all part of the charm of DIY lippy.

Allow the lipstick to cool completely in the molds. This can take a few hours at room temperature, but popping them into the refrigerator can speed up the process if you're in a rush.

After they've set, carefully remove your lipstick from the molds and put them into your container of choice (or old lipstick tube).

Now, go ahead and give yourself a smile in the mirror. Those eco-friendly, luscious lips are courtesy of your own two hands! 👏🏻

How Can You Perfect Your Lipstick Formula?

  • Adjusting Shades: Add more colorant for deeper intensity or mix pigments for a custom shade. Experiment with natural spices and clays for a broad palette.
  • Texture Tweaks: Increase the oil or butter content for a creamier texture. Add a bit more wax for a firmer lipstick.
  • Natural Preservative: Add grapefruit seed extract to extend shelf life.
  • Storage: Keep your lipstick in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight. Refrigeration can extend its life.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the three basic ingredients needed to make lipsticks?

The three basic ingredients needed to make lipsticks are wax, oil, and pigment.

How do you make 100% natural lipstick?

To make 100% natural lipstick, follow the instructions in this article and use only 100% natural ingredients.

Can I make lipstick with Vaseline?

Yes, you can make lipstick with Vaseline. Melt a spoonful of Vaseline and mix in a pinch of your chosen pigment. Stir well, pour it into a container, and let it cool.

How can I get pink lips naturally?

Hydration and gentle exfoliation are essential to naturally getting pink lips. Apply a mix of sugar and honey to your lips once a week and scrub gently.

The Final Word

Homemade lipstick isn't just about beauty.

It's about taking a few simple, non-toxic ingredients (like beeswax and shea butter), embracing sustainability (by reusing old lipstick tubes), and unleashing your inner creativity.

By following the simple steps in this article, you'll not only craft a unique lipstick but also make a positive impact on your health and the planet.

Now, that's a beauty regime we should all get behind!

Get In Touch

Do you already use natural lipsticks and lip balm like the brands I recommend in my non-toxic lipstick article? Or have you already gotten creative and made your own all-natural lip gloss? Drop me a line and share your recipes and top tips.

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Stephanie Cole
Stephanie Cole
With her Master of Science in Renewable Energy Engineering (MSREE) from Oregon Tech, Steph is supremely well qualified to write on all aspects of sustainable living. She has already achieved a zero carbon footprint and her goal is to help as many other people as possible do the same. Her other hobbies include music, yoga, swimming and horror movies.
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