The Beauty of Natural Lipsticks | A Guide to Healthier Lips
As beauty enthusiasts seek to nourish their bodies and the planet simultaneously, one trend has taken center stage: the rise of natural lipstick. From earthy tones to bold pops of color, the best natural lipsticks offer an extensive palette that satisfies every style and preference, all while honoring the planet we call home.
In this blog post, we delve into the enchanting world of natural lipsticks, exploring the reasons behind their growing popularity, the benefits they offer, and the key factors to consider when choosing the perfect shade.
Table of contents:
What is a natural lipstick?
Some natural makeup products are suitable for sustainable and non-harmful purposes like a natural foundation. A natural lipstick is a lip product made with ingredients derived from nature, such as plant-based oils, waxes, and pigments.
It is free from synthetic chemicals, artificial dyes, and potentially harmful additives commonly found in traditional lipsticks. Natural lipsticks provide color, hydration, and nourishment while maintaining a focus on organic and sustainable ingredients. They are a healthier and eco-friendly option for those seeking a more conscious approach to lip care and beauty.
Benefits of Choosing Natural Lipsticks
Choosing organic skincare and makeup products like natural lipsticks brings forth a multitude of benefits that extend beyond mere aesthetics. These eco-conscious lip products offer a range of advantages that cater to both your well-being and the welfare of the environment. Let's explore some of the key benefits of opting for natural lipsticks:
Healthier Ingredients: Natural lipsticks are crafted with ingredients derived from nature, often including plant-based oils, waxes, and pigments.
Nourishing and Hydrating: The nourishing properties of these lipsticks can leave your lips feeling soft, supple, and well-cared for, making them ideal for everyday use.
Environmentally Friendly: By choosing natural lipsticks, you can actively contribute to the preservation of our planet and support brands that prioritize sustainability.
Cruelty-Free and Vegan Options: They avoid any form of animal testing and do not use animal-derived ingredients.
Vibrant Color Palette: Natural lipsticks offer an impressive array of shades, ranging from subtle nudes to bold, statement-making hues.
Versatility and Longevity: You can confidently wear natural lipsticks throughout the day, knowing that they will stay put without compromising your health or the environment.
Gentle on Sensitive Lips: If you find that conventional lipsticks cause dryness, irritation, or discomfort, natural alternatives can offer a soothing and gentle experience.
Antioxidant Protection: Many natural lipsticks contain ingredients rich in antioxidants, such as vitamin E, green tea extract, or berry extracts.
The Difference Between Organic and Natural Lipsticks
The difference between organic and natural lipsticks lies primarily in their ingredients and certification processes. Organic lipsticks are made from ingredients that have been grown and processed without the use of synthetic pesticides, fertilizers, or genetically modified organisms (GMOs). These lipsticks often carry certifications from regulatory bodies that verify their organic status.
On the other hand, natural lipsticks are formulated with ingredients derived from natural sources, such as plant oils, waxes, and mineral pigments, and they generally avoid the use of synthetic chemicals or harsh additives. While natural lipsticks may contain some organic ingredients, they may not necessarily be certified organic. The distinction between the two lies in the specific requirements and certifications associated with organic products, emphasizing the adherence to strict organic farming and manufacturing standards.
Natural lipstick vs. conventional lipstick
zero waste deodorant and conventional deodorant, sustainable shampoo and conventional shampoo, they`re never the same! They differ significantly in their formulation, ingredients, and overall impact on both personal health and the environment just like natural lipstick and conventional lipstick. Here's a breakdown of the key differences between natural and conventional lipsticks:
Formulation: Natural lipsticks are crafted with ingredients derived from natural sources, such as plant oils, waxes, and mineral pigments. Conventional lipsticks, on the other hand, often contain a mix of synthetic ingredients, including petroleum-based waxes, artificial colors, and preservatives.
Ingredients: Natural lipsticks typically utilize nourishing and hydrating ingredients like shea butter, coconut oil, or jojoba oil. In contrast, conventional lipsticks often rely on synthetic additives, fragrances, and potentially harmful chemicals, which can lead to dryness, irritation, and allergic reactions.
Health Impact: Natural lipsticks are generally considered safer for personal health since they avoid the use of harsh chemicals and potentially toxic substances. Conventional lipsticks, due to their synthetic ingredients, may pose a higher risk of skin irritation or adverse reactions.
Environmental Impact: Natural lipsticks are often produced using sustainable sourcing practices and eco-friendly manufacturing methods. In contrast, conventional lipsticks may contribute to environmental harm through the use of non-renewable resources.
Cruelty-Free and Vegan Options: Natural lipstick brands are more likely to be committed to cruelty-free practices, meaning they do not test their products on animals. They also offer vegan options that are free from animal-derived ingredients.
Many natural lipstick brands now offer vibrant shades and versatile formulations that rival their conventional counterparts, providing consumers with a wider range of choices without compromising on quality or performance.
Best natural lipstick brands
Knowing the best natural lipstick brands empowers consumers to make informed choices about the products they use on their lips. By identifying reputable brands that prioritize natural, organic, and non-toxic ingredients, consumers can ensure they are purchasing lipsticks that are safer for their health and the environment. Here we identify the best natural lipstick brands as sustainable shopping tips:
1- 100% Pure
Best For Range of colors
Natural Ingredients: Organic cocoa butter, shea butter, pomegranate seed oil, pigments come from fruit
Price Range: $26–$28
"100% Pure" is a well-known brand that specializes in natural cosmetics, including best natural lipsticks. The brand is dedicated to creating cosmetics that are free from synthetic chemicals, artificial colors, and harsh additives. Their lipsticks are formulated with nourishing ingredients derived from fruits, vegetables, and natural pigments. "100% Pure" lipsticks are known for their vibrant shades, long-lasting wear, and moisturizing properties.
2- RMS Beauty
Best For Skin-healthy ingredients
Natural Ingredients: Organic castor seed oil, organic carnauba wax, organic cocoa seed butter, more organic and wildcrafted ingredients
Price Range: $24–$30
RMS Beauty's lip products are harmless and aid in skin healing and nourishment. Every lip ingredient is used in its raw, organic form, allowing natural living properties to renew and freshen your lips (or cheeks!). You'll love the Lip2Cheek product's versatility as a moisturizing, multi-purpose lotion with beautiful effects.
3- Axiology
Best For Zero waste lipstick
Natural Ingredients: Organic castor, sunflower, and hemp seed oils, no palm oil or fragrances
Price Range: $24
Axiology's multi-purpose cosmetics like organic eyeshadows and lipsticks are also vegan, cruelty-free, and manufactured in Bend, Oregon, USA. I like the tinted dew for an all-over shine with a hint of color and the color cream for its pigment.
If you have really sensitive skin, keep in mind that some products include coconut oil, so read the ingredient lists carefully! Keep the lipsticks in a cold, dry place, and to retract the stick, simply press down with your lips.
4- ILIA
Best For Pigmented lipstick
Natural Ingredients: Organic castor seed oil, apricot seed oil, mango seed butter
Price Range: $26–$28
ILIA is a renowned brand that has gained recognition for its exceptional sustainable makeup products, especially its line of natural lipsticks. Committed to creating clean, high-performing cosmetics, ILIA offers a range of lip products that combine luxurious shades with nourishing ingredients.
Their lipsticks are formulated with a blend of organic and natural oils, such as castor seed oil, jojoba seed oil, and cocoa seed butter, to provide hydration, comfort, and a smooth application. With a reputation for delivering long-lasting, vibrant lip colors while maintaining a focus on clean, natural ingredients, ILIA has become a go-to brand for those seeking both performance and conscious beauty choices.
5- Jones Road
Best For Best multi-sticks
Natural Ingredients: Castor seed oil
Price Range: $22–$34
Jones Road is a notable brand that offers a range of natural lipsticks known for their effortless, understated elegance. Created by renowned makeup artist Bobbi Brown, Jones Road focuses on minimalist, clean beauty products. Their lipsticks are designed to enhance natural beauty while providing a comfortable and nourishing experience. The brand's lipsticks offer versatile shades that seamlessly complement various skin tones, allowing for a subtle, polished look.
6- Ecco Bella
Best For Best organic lipstick
Natural Ingredients: Castor oil, palm oil, candelilla wax, Vitamin E, calendula oil, chamomile oil, jojoba oil, flower wax-coated iron oxides.
Price Range: Up to $21.95
Ecco Bella is a notable brand that specializes in sustainable personal care products and beauty products, including a range of natural lipsticks. Committed to creating cosmetics that are both safe and environmentally friendly, Ecco Bella offers lipsticks that are free from synthetic chemicals, artificial colors, and preservatives.
Their lipsticks are formulated with a blend of nourishing ingredients such as organic oils, waxes, and botanical extracts, which help to moisturize and protect the lips. Ecco Bella lipsticks are known for their smooth application, rich pigmentation, and long-lasting wear.
Natural Pigments for Vibrant Lips
Natural pigments can be derived from various sources to create vibrant colors for natural lipsticks. Here are a few examples of natural pigments commonly used:
Fruit and Vegetable Extracts: Ingredients like beetroot, raspberry, pomegranate, and carrot extract can provide rich, vibrant shades ranging from deep reds to bright pinks and oranges.
Mineral Pigments: Mica, iron oxides, and titanium dioxide are commonly used mineral pigments that can produce a wide range of colors, including bold reds, vibrant corals, and deep purples.
Plant-Based Dyes: Some plants, such as elderberry, hibiscus, and spirulina, contain natural pigments that can be used to create intense shades of purple, pink, and blue.
Clay and Earth Pigments: Clays like red clay, pink clay, and brown clay can give lipsticks earthy, warm tones while providing a natural matte finish.
Natural Indigo: Derived from the indigo plant, natural indigo extracts can create deep, rich blue shades for those seeking a bolder lip color.
It's important to note that while these natural pigments can provide vibrant hues, the intensity, and range of colors may vary compared to synthetic pigments commonly used in conventional lipsticks.
Toxic Ingredients in Lipstick
Lipsticks, especially conventional ones, may contain various toxic ingredients. Here are some examples of common toxic ingredients that can be found in certain lipsticks:
Lead: Lead is a heavy metal that can be present as a contaminant in some lipsticks. It is a neurotoxin that can have harmful effects on the nervous system, even in small amounts.
Parabens: Parabens have been linked to hormone disruption and have been found in breast cancer tissues, although more research is needed to establish a definitive link.
Phthalates: Phthalates are a group of chemicals used as plasticizers in cosmetics. They can be found in lipsticks and have been associated with reproductive and developmental toxicity.
Synthetic Fragrances: These fragrances can cause skin irritation and allergic reactions in some individuals.
Petrochemicals: Petrochemicals, derived from petroleum, may be used in lipsticks as emollients or for color stabilization. They can clog pores and potentially contain impurities.
Formaldehyde-Releasing Preservatives: Some lipsticks may contain preservatives like formaldehyde-releasing agents. These chemicals can release small amounts of formaldehyde, which is a known human carcinogen.
It's important to note that not all lipsticks contain these toxic ingredients. Best natural lipsticks and organic lipstick brands have emerged that prioritize using safer alternatives and avoiding these harmful substances. Checking ingredient labels and choosing lipsticks from reputable brands that prioritize clean, non-toxic formulations can help minimize exposure to these potentially harmful ingredients.
Tips to Choose the Perfect Natural Lipstick Shade
Choosing the perfect natural lipstick shade can be a personal and subjective process. But some special shades exactly go well on you. You need to find these shades. Here are some tips to help you find a shade that complements your skin tone and suits your preferences:
1-Determine Your Undertone
Identify whether you have warm, cool, or neutral undertones. Warm undertones typically suit shades with peach, coral, or golden undertones, while cool undertones tend to pair well with pink, berry, or blue-based shades. Neutral undertones have the flexibility to experiment with a wide range of colors.
2- Consider Your Skin Tone
Take into account your overall skin tone, whether it is fair, light, medium, or deep. Certain shades may look more flattering on specific skin tones. For example, light pinks and nudes complement fair skin, while deeper shades like berries and plums enhance deeper skin tones.
3- Try Before You Buy
Whenever possible, swatch lipsticks on your wrist or back of your hand to get an idea of how the shade looks against your skin. If testing in-store is not available, look for online swatches and reviews from individuals with similar skin tones to yours.
4- Experiment with Different Finishes
Best natural lipsticks come in various finishes, including matte, satin, sheer, and glossy. Consider the finish that aligns with your personal style and comfort level. Matte finishes can provide a more sophisticated look, while sheer or glossy finishes offer a more casual or natural appearance.
5- Consider Your Lip Pigmentation
If your lips have more natural pigmentation, it can affect how a lipstick shade appears on your lips. You may need to choose shades that are slightly deeper or more vibrant to achieve the desired color payoff.
6- Personal Preference
Ultimately, go with shades that make you feel confident and comfortable. Don't be afraid to experiment and step out of your comfort zone to find your perfect natural lipstick shade.
7- Day-to-Night Lipstick Choices
When choosing a natural lipstick shade that can transition seamlessly from day to night, consider the versatility of the color. Opt for shades that can be worn more subtly during the day for a natural and effortless look and can be built up or paired with other products for a bolder, more dramatic effect in the evening. Neutral shades like soft pinks, rosy nudes, or mauves often work well for this purpose, as they can be easily adapted to different occasions and makeup styles.
8- Trendy Natural Lipstick Shades
Trends in natural lipstick shades can vary over time. To stay up to date with the latest trends, explore popular shades that are currently in vogue. This could include shades like burnt orange, terracotta, deep berry, or vibrant coral. Keeping an eye on beauty magazines, social media influencers, and makeup trend reports can provide insights into the latest trendy natural lipstick shades. However, remember to choose shades that complement your skin tone and make you feel confident and comfortable.
9- Gloss, Satin, and Matte Natural Lipstick
Glossy lipsticks provide a shiny, reflective finish, adding a touch of glamour and creating the illusion of fuller lips. Satin lipsticks offer a soft sheen, striking a balance between shine and matte, resulting in a smooth and sophisticated appearance. Matte lipsticks, on the other hand, provide a velvety, non-shiny finish, often associated with a more classic and long-lasting look. Consider your personal style, the occasion, and the level of comfort you desire when choosing between gloss, satin, and matte natural lipstick finishes.
Remember, these tips are meant to serve as guidelines, but personal preference and individual features play a significant role in choosing a lipstick shade. Trust your instincts and have fun exploring different colors until you find the shades that make you feel beautiful and confident.
Best Ways to Nourishing Your Lips Naturally
Knowing tips for nourishing lips naturally allows us to maintain the health and appearance of our lips without relying on potentially harsh or artificial ingredients. By following natural lip care practices, we can prevent dryness, chapping, and other issues, keeping our lips soft, smooth, and attractive. To nourish your lips naturally, here are some effective tips:
Hydrate: Adequate hydration is essential for healthy lips. Drink plenty of water throughout the day to keep your body and lips hydrated from within.
Exfoliate: Regularly exfoliate your lips to remove dry, dead skin cells. Use a gentle lip scrub like sugar and honey. Gently massage the scrub onto your lips, then rinse off and apply a moisturizing balm. You can do it in the bathroom while washing your body with a natural body wash.
Moisturize: Use a natural lip balm or lip moisturizer to keep your lips hydrated and prevent dryness. Apply the lip balm throughout the day and before bed to maintain moisture.
Avoid Licking Your Lips: Licking your lips can actually worsen dryness. Saliva evaporates quickly, leaving your lips even drier. Instead, reach for a lip balm to provide moisture.
Avoid Harsh Ingredients: Be cautious of lip products that contain harsh ingredients like fragrances, artificial colors, and drying alcohols.
Protect in Cold Weather: During cold or windy weather, protect your lips by wearing a scarf or using a lip balm with added emollients to create a barrier against harsh conditions.
Healthy Diet: Include foods like fruits, vegetables, nuts, and seeds, which provide essential nutrients for healthy skin, including the lips.
Protect from the Sun: Protect your lips from harmful UV rays. Choose a lip balm with SPF like All Good Sunstick SPF30 and apply it generously before going out in the sun. Reapply regularly, especially after eating or drinking.
How to make natural lipstick at home
Learning how to make your own natural lipstick can be as fun as learning to make face soap. By using natural ingredients, you can customize the color, texture, and fragrance of your lipstick while avoiding potentially harmful chemicals often found in commercial products. To make natural lipstick at home, follow these steps:
Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients
1 tablespoon of beeswax pellets
1 tablespoon of shea butter
1 tablespoon of coconut oil
Natural colorants (e.g., beetroot powder, cocoa powder, turmeric, or other natural pigments)
Optional: a few drops of essential oil for fragrance (e.g., lavender, peppermint)
Step 2: Melt the Ingredients
In a heat-safe container or double boiler, combine the beeswax pellets, shea butter, and coconut oil. Heat the mixture gently until everything is melted and well combined. You can use a microwave or place the container in a pot of simmering water on the stovetop.
Step 3: Add Color and Fragrance
Once the ingredients are melted, remove the mixture from heat and let it cool for a few minutes. Add your desired natural colorant to achieve the desired shade. Start with a small amount, as you can always add more for a darker color. If desired, add a few drops of essential oil for fragrance. Stir well to ensure even distribution.
Step 4: Pour and Set
Carefully pour the melted mixture into lip balm tubes or small containers. Allow the mixture to cool and solidify completely. This may take a few hours, depending on the size of the containers and the room temperature.
Step 5: Application and Storage
Once the lipstick has solidified, it is ready to use. Apply it to your lips using a lip brush or your finger. Store the homemade lipstick in a cool, dry place to prevent melting or spoilage. Use it within a few months, as it doesn't contain preservatives.
Remember to experiment with different natural colorants and adjust the ratios to achieve your desired shade and texture. Have fun and enjoy your homemade best natural lipsticks!
Conclusion
Best natural lipsticks offer a wonderful alternative for those seeking a healthier and more conscious approach to lip care and beauty. By opting for natural ingredients and avoiding harmful chemicals, we can nourish and enhance our lips while minimizing potential risks.
Natural lipsticks not only provide vibrant colors and long-lasting wear but also offer the peace of mind that comes with knowing exactly what we are applying to our lips. Whether you choose to purchase natural lipsticks or embark on the exciting journey of making your own at home, embracing natural alternatives can lead to luscious, beautiful lips without compromising on health or sustainability. So go ahead, explore the world of natural lipsticks, and let your lips shine naturally and confidently.
