How to Make Lip Gloss

A glossy, tinted lip gloss made from a melt-and-pour base, so there is no tricky chemistry. Castor oil is what gives it the shine, and a pinch of mica gives you any colour you like.

Method

1. Melt the lip balm base gently in the microwave or over low heat until it runs clear.
2. Stir in the castor oil. This is what makes it glossy rather than matt.
3. Add a pinch of mica and stir until the colour is even with no streaks.
4. Take it off the heat, then add a few drops of flavouring oil and the vitamin E.
5. Pour straight into your roller balls or tubes while it is still runny.
6. Leave to set at room temperature before you cap them.

Find everything you need at The Soap Barn’s Lip Balm Making supplies.

Tips & variations

Once you have made your lip gloss, here are a few ways to get a great result and make it your own.

• More castor oil gives a wetter, shinier gloss. Less gives a firmer balm-style finish.
• Add the mica a pinch at a time. It goes a long way and is easier to build up than to fix.
• Use lip-safe flavouring oils only, ordinary fragrance oils are not made for lips.
• Work quickly once it is melted, it sets fast in a cold room.
• Label every batch with the date so you know how fresh it is.

Make it your own: a rose or bronze mica gives an everyday tint, and a clear batch with no mica makes a lovely high-shine gloss.

You may also like: Lip Balm and Solid Perfume.