This updated guide keeps the original DIY spirit - two simple lip gloss recipes (a tinted gloss made from old lipstick plus petroleum jelly, and a shortening-based fruity gloss) - but adds modern safety guidance: sanitize tools, use cosmetic-grade pigments and flavorings, avoid craft glitter, and understand shelf life differences between anhydrous formulas and water-containing mixes. Patch-test, label jars, and discard if contamination appears.

Why make your own lip gloss?

Making lip gloss at home lets you recycle an old lipstick, control scent and shine, and experiment with color without buying new products. Keep safety in mind: work with clean tools, use cosmetic-grade pigments, and avoid craft glitter that can irritate lips and eyes.

Materials and safety basics

Sanitize containers and utensils with hot, soapy water and let them dry. Wash hands and work on a clean surface. Use cosmetic-grade mica or pigment for shimmer; do not use craft glitter or sequins. Use food-grade flavor extracts or cosmetic flavor oils designed for lips. Essential oils can irritate sensitive skin - use them sparingly and patch-test first.

If you add any water or water-based mixes, understand the mixture can grow bacteria or mold quickly unless you use a preservative. If you rely only on oils, waxes, and anhydrous ingredients (no water), the product is far less likely to grow microbes.

Recipe 1 - Simple tinted gloss (recycles an old lipstick)

Ingredients:


  • An old or inexpensive lipstick


  • 1 rounded teaspoon petroleum jelly (Vaseline) or a 1:1 mix of petroleum jelly and a cosmetic oil (coconut oil, jojoba)


  • Small clean container


Method:

  1. Scrape the lipstick into a clean bowl.


  1. Add the petroleum jelly. Melt gently in a double boiler or in short bursts in the microwave (10-15 seconds), stirring until smooth.


  1. For shimmer, add a pinch of cosmetic-grade mica. For flavor, add a drop of cosmetic flavoring.


  1. Pour into your container and let cool until set. Store in a cool, dry place.


This anhydrous gloss (no water) is more stable than water-containing mixes and can last months if kept clean and dry.

Recipe 2 - Fruity gloss (shortening-based)

Ingredients:


  • 2 tablespoons solid vegetable shortening (food-grade)


  • 1 teaspoon cosmetic-grade flavor or 1/2-1 teaspoon unsweetened powdered drink mix (Kool-Aid-style) for tint


Method:

  1. Melt the shortening gently using a double boiler or microwave in short bursts.


  1. Stir in the flavored powder or flavoring until fully dissolved. If you use powdered drink mix, it may introduce water; keep quantities small and refrigerate.


  1. Pour into a clean container and chill until firm.


If you add any water (or use a water-containing drink mix), refrigerate and use quickly: expect a much shorter usable life (days to a couple of weeks) unless you add a proper cosmetic preservative. 1

Final tips

  • Always patch-test a small amount on your inner wrist before applying to lips.
  • Label containers with date made and ingredients.
  • Discard at the first sign of smell change, separation, or mold.
  • Prefer cosmetic-grade ingredients and avoid craft supplies that were not made for skin contact.
Making simple lip gloss at home is fun and economical when you follow basic sanitation and ingredient guidelines. Start small, keep notes, and adjust scents and shine to suit you.
  1. Confirm typical shelf life ranges for anhydrous DIY lip gloss stored at room temperature (months) versus water-containing DIY gloss (days to 1-2 weeks refrigerated). [[CHECK]]
  2. Verify recommended preservative options and concentrations suitable for small-batch DIY lip gloss and their availability. [[CHECK]]

FAQs about Make Lip Gloss

Can I use craft glitter for shimmer?
No. Use cosmetic-grade mica or pigments. Craft glitter can contain sharp edges or non-skin-safe materials that irritate lips and eyes.
How long will homemade lip gloss last?
Anhydrous glosses (only oils, waxes, petroleum jelly) can last for months if kept clean. Any recipe that includes water or water-containing powders should be refrigerated and used quickly (days to a couple of weeks) unless a preservative is added.
Is it safe to use food drink mix (like Kool-Aid) for flavor and color?
You can use a small amount for tint and flavor, but powdered drink mixes can introduce water-soluble components and shorten shelf life. For longer stability, use cosmetic-grade flavorings and pigments.
Can I replace petroleum jelly with natural oils?
Yes. You can use cosmetic oils like fractionated coconut oil, jojoba, or a blend with beeswax to create a firmer gloss. Keep recipes anhydrous to reduce microbial risk.
How should I test for allergic reactions?
Apply a small amount to the inside of your wrist and wait 24 hours. If you see redness, itching, or swelling, do not use the product on your lips.

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