Tallow Lip Balm DIY Recipe

If you’re looking for an alternative to store-bought lip balms filled with synthetic ingredients, a homemade tallow lip balm is a perfect choice.

Tallow, a traditional skincare ingredient made from rendered animal fat, is packed with nutrients that deeply moisturize and protect the lips.

This DIY tallow lip balm recipe is simple to make and offers lasting hydration, especially during cold or dry weather.

In this guide, you’ll learn the benefits of tallow for skin, why it’s a superior ingredient for lip care, and how to make your own nourishing lip balm at home.

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Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This information is not  information is not medical advice and not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent disease. If you have a medical condition, please consult your doctor before using essential oils.

What Is Tallow?

Tallow is purified animal fat, typically from beef or sheep, that has been rendered to remove impurities. It has been used for centuries in skincare, soap-making, and even candle-making due to its deeply moisturizing and protective properties. Unlike petroleum-based products, tallow closely resembles the skin’s natural oils, making it highly effective at restoring moisture and preventing dryness.

When sourced from grass-fed animals, tallow is even more beneficial, as it contains higher levels of essential vitamins and healthy fats that support skin health.

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Benefits of Tallow for Lips

Tallow is an exceptional ingredient for lip balm because it offers deep hydration, protection, and nourishment without synthetic additives. Here’s why it’s so effective:

1. Deep Moisturization

Tallow is rich in essential fatty acids that closely mimic the natural composition of human skin. This makes it incredibly effective at replenishing lost moisture and preventing dry, chapped lips.

2. Nutrient-Rich Composition

Tallow contains a powerful combination of skin-loving vitamins, including:

• Vitamin A – Supports cell regeneration and helps heal cracked lips.
• Vitamin D – Aids in skin barrier repair and moisture retention.
• Vitamin E – Acts as an antioxidant that protects against environmental damage.
• Vitamin K – Promotes skin elasticity and overall health.

3. All-Natural and Chemical-Free

Unlike commercial lip balms that often contain synthetic preservatives, fragrances, and petroleum-based ingredients, tallow lip balm is completely natural. This makes it ideal for those with sensitive skin or allergies.

4. Long-Lasting Protection

Tallow doesn’t just sit on the surface of the skin—it penetrates deeply to provide lasting hydration. It also creates a natural barrier that helps protect lips from harsh weather conditions, making it a great choice for winter or dry climates.

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DIY Tallow Lip Balm Recipe

Now that you know why tallow is an incredible skincare ingredient, let’s get into the simple, step-by-step recipe for making your own nourishing lip balm.

Ingredients:

• 2 tbsp grass-fed tallow (preferably grass fed, high quality)
• 3 tbsp beeswax (adds structure and helps the balm last longer on the lips)
• 1 tsp Raw Cocoa butter
• 4 tbsp carrier oil (I used a combination of Castor Oil and Jojoba Oil, any carrier oil will work)
• 5–10 drops essential oil (optional; peppermint, vanilla, or lavender work well)

Equipment Needed:

• Double boiler or heat-safe glass jar over a saucepan
• Stirring utensil
• Measuring spoons
• Lip balm tubes or small tins
• Small funnel (optional, for easy pouring)

I like to use these lip balm containers that come with the filling station. You don’t need the filling station to make your tallow lip balm, but it definitely makes things easier. And once you buy it, you can reuse it again in the future and only need to purchase the containers.

If you don’t need the filling tray, you can pickup a package of only the lip balm containers.

If you would like to avoid plastic, you could use something like these lip balm tins instead:

Another tool that will make your life easier when making lip balms, or any other DIY where you have to pour liquid into a small bottle are these mini funnels. I use them all the time when making essential oil rollers, and, of course, lip balms.

Step-by-Step Instructions To Make Tallow Lip Balm

Step 1: Melt the Ingredients

1. In a double boiler (or a heat-safe glass jar placed over a pot of simmering water), add the tallow, beeswax, cocoa butter and carrier oils.
2. Stir occasionally as the ingredients melt together into a smooth liquid.

Step 2: Add Essential Oils (Optional)

• Once fully melted, remove from heat and allow it to cool slightly (about 1 minute).
• Add 5–10 drops of your chosen essential oil and stir well to evenly distribute the scent.

Step 3: Pour Into Containers

• Carefully pour the warm liquid into lip balm tubes or tins. If using tubes, a small funnel can help prevent spills.
• Let the lip balm sit at room temperature until fully hardened (this usually takes 1–2 hours). Then add the caps.

Step 4: Use and Store

• Once solidified, your homemade tallow lip balm is ready to use!
• Store in a cool, dry place and apply as needed for soft, nourished lips.

Tallow Lip Balm Customization Ideas

This basic tallow lip balm recipe can be modified to suit your preferences. Here are a few ideas:

• Tinted Lip Balm: Add a small amount of beetroot powder or cocoa powder for a natural tint.
• Extra Healing Power: Infuse the tallow with calendula or chamomile before making the balm for added skin-soothing benefits.
• Glossier Finish: Increase the coconut oil content slightly to create a more glossy balm.
• Firm vs. Soft Texture: Adjust the ratio of beeswax to tallow depending on your desired consistency—more beeswax makes a firmer balm, while less makes it softer.

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Final Thoughts On How To Make Tallow Lip Balm

Tallow is one of nature’s most powerful skincare ingredients, offering unmatched hydration and protection for the lips. Unlike commercial lip balms that may contain artificial ingredients, this DIY tallow lip balm is completely natural, highly nourishing, and easy to make at home.

If you’re looking for a chemical-free way to keep your lips soft and hydrated year-round, this homemade balm is a fantastic option. Try making your own batch and experiment with different essential oils or customizations to create a lip balm that’s perfect for you!

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