Woman Applying Lip Balm

As someone who’s always been drawn to the outdoors, whether it’s beach days with my husband or countryside weekend hikes, I’ve learned the hard way about the importance of sun protection. My lips, often overlooked in my suncare routine, had suffered the consequences more times than I’d like to admit. That’s what inspired me to create my Citrus Burst SPF Balm – a little pot of sunshine that protects as much as it delights.

My journey to creating this balm began during a particularly memorable beach holiday. Despite religiously applying sunscreen to my face and body, I’d neglected my lips. By the end of the trip, they were painfully sunburned and peeling. As I nursed them back to health, I couldn’t help but think there had to be a better way to protect my lips while still enjoying the fresh, summery feeling I loved about being outdoors.

Back home, armed with my lip balm-making experience and a determination to solve this problem, I set out to create an SPF lip balm that would not only protect but also feel like a treat to apply. I wanted something that would remind me of sunny days and fresh citrus groves, even on the greyest UK mornings.

The process of formulating this balm was a delicate balance of science and sensory pleasure. Incorporating non-nano zinc oxide for sun protection was crucial, but I had to ensure it blended smoothly without leaving a white cast. The breakthrough came when I discovered how well it paired with the creamy texture of shea butter and the easy glide of coconut oil.

But the real magic happened when I added the citrus essential oils. The bright, uplifting scent of sweet orange and lemon not only masked the slightly metallic smell of the zinc oxide but also brought an instant mood boost with every application. It was like capturing a bit of summer sunshine in a lip balm!

What I love most about this Citrus Burst SPF Balm is its versatility. It’s become my year-round companion, offering protection whether I’m chilling on the beach, hiking in the countryside, or simply running errands on a sunny day. The subtle sheen it leaves on the lips is an added bonus, giving just a hint of glossy freshness.

Creating this balm has given me a newfound appreciation for the complexity of sun protection. It’s not just about the SPF factor; it’s about creating a product that people will enjoy using consistently. The citrus scent serves as a cheerful reminder to reapply, making sun protection feel less like a chore and more like a moment of self-care.

This Citrus Burst SPF Balm has become a staple in my beach bag, my hiking backpack, and my everyday purse. Sharing it with friends and family has been a joy, especially seeing their surprise at how pleasant an SPF lip product can be. It’s become my go-to gift for outdoor enthusiasts and sun-worshippers alike.

Before we dive into the recipe, I want to emphasise the importance of understanding the basics of lip balm making, especially when working with active ingredients like zinc oxide. If you’re new to this craft, I strongly recommend reading my comprehensive guide on homemade lip balms before attempting this recipe. It covers crucial information about ingredients, techniques, and safety precautions that will set you up for success.

Are you ready to bring a burst of citrusy sunshine to your lip care routine while keeping your delicate skin protected? Let’s embark on this zesty adventure together and create a Citrus Burst SPF Balm that will keep your lips safe, soft, and summer-ready all year round. Get ready to pucker up to the sun with confidence!

Disclosure: If you make a purchase through my links I am compensated at no cost to you.

Citrus Burst SPF Balm

Yield: Yields 4-5 lip balm tubes or 2-3 small tins

Citrus Burst SPF Balm

Side View of a Woman Applying Balm

Protect and enliven your lips with this zesty, sun-safe balm. The refreshing citrus scent makes sun protection a pleasure rather than a chore. It's your perfect companion for outdoor adventures or everyday sun safety.

Prep Time 5 minutes
Active Time 10 minutes
Cooling Time 3 hours
Total Time 3 hours 15 minutes
Difficulty Easy
Estimated Cost £

Materials

  • 1 tablespoon (15g) shea butter
  • 1 tablespoon (15g) coconut oil
  • 1 tablespoon (15g) beeswax
  • 1 teaspoon (5g) non-nano zinc oxide
  • 5 drops sweet orange essential oil
  • 3 drops lemon essential oil

Tools

  • Double boiler (or a heat-safe glass bowl and a saucepan)
  • Small jars or lip balm tubes
  • Kitchen scale (for precise measurements)
  • Stirring utensil (a small whisk or spoon)
  • Dropper (for essential oils)
  • Small funnel (optional, but helpful for filling tubes)
  • Labels (for marking your creations)

Instructions

  1. Begin by melting the shea butter, coconut oil, and beeswax in a double boiler.
  2. Once melted and well combined, remove from heat.
  3. Allow the mixture to cool slightly but not solidify. It should be warm, not hot.
  4. In a separate small bowl, mix the non-nano zinc oxide with a small amount of the melted oil mixture to create a smooth paste. This helps prevent clumping.
  5. Slowly add this zinc oxide paste to the main mixture, whisking continuously to ensure even distribution.
  6. Once the zinc oxide is fully incorporated, add the sweet orange and lemon essential oils.
  7. Stir thoroughly to combine all ingredients.
  8. Pour into your chosen containers and allow to cool completely.

Notes

  • Always use non-nano zinc oxide for safer application on lips.
  • Wear a mask when working with powdered zinc oxide to avoid inhalation.
  • The mixture may need to be stirred a few times while cooling to prevent the zinc oxide from settling.
  • Citrus essential oils can increase photosensitivity, so it's crucial to use them in small amounts. The SPF from the zinc oxide should counteract this, but it's something to be aware of.
  • This balm may leave a slight white cast due to the zinc oxide. Adjust the amount if needed, but remember this affects the SPF level.
  • While this provides some SPF, it's not a replacement for dedicated sun protection products.
  • Protect and revitalise your lips with this zesty, sun-safe balm. The refreshing blend of sweet orange and lemon essential oils makes sun protection a pleasure rather than a chore. Non-nano zinc oxide provides broad-spectrum UV protection, while shea butter and coconut oil keep lips moisturised. This balm proves that effective sun care can be natural and enjoyable. It’s your perfect companion for outdoor adventures or everyday sun safety, ensuring your lips stay protected and lusciously soft.

    Short on time? If you don’t have time to make your own I recommend this: Hurraw! Sun Lip Balm 

    Hand of a Woman using Citrus Burst SPF Balm

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