January's Project: Peppermint Lip Balm

The story of my lip balm begins nearly two years ago (actually my obsession began in high school...as in, couldn't go anywhere without it for fear of that dry, cracked lip feeling, but I digress) when I began switching all of my body care products to ones that contained less toxic ingredients. One of the first things I bought was this lip balm from Kiss My Face. I liked how it smelled, how it felt on my lips, and its staying power...so I stuck with it and moved on to researching natural and organic face soaps, lotions, and make-up. At least six months later, Lee admitted he didn't like the smell of my Vanilla Honey lip balm. This from the man who kisses me on a daily basis!! I was dumbfounded that he hadn't said something sooner, and we still joke about the fact that he disliked it for so long and never mentioned it. As soon as he confessed his true feelings though, I began the hunt for something new. Thankfully it didn't take long to find one we both could agree on. I especially love the Chai Mandarin scent. 

Just before Christmas I saw this recipe for homemade peppermint lip balm and have wanted to try it ever since. The honey and coconut oil came from the grocery store. All of the other ingredients (including the silver tins) were ordered from Mountain Rose Herbs (my new favorite online store).

It was quick and easy to whip up. The hardest part was getting the pan clean afterward, but nothing that a few rounds of soaking with hot water and bubbles couldn't fix. I love how it feels on my lips, smooth with no waxiness. There's a slight scent of peppermint and a bit of a cooling sensation when I first apply it, and it has fantastic staying power. I've been wearing it for a few days and am really happy with it.

Lee created the cutest labels for the tins. He even came up with the name "simple lip smacker", which I love. (He and Liza call kisses "smackers", so it totally fits.) Best of all, he's been using it on his lips too. That must mean he likes it. Good news for the one he kisses ;-)