As most of us know, Petroleum jelly (vaseline, paraffin jelly, petrolatum) comes from Petroleum, a non-renewable resource. Although Petroleum is non toxic, it can cause allergic reactions to sensitive skin and diarrhea if too much in consumed. Since Petroleum jelly is what we most commonly apply to our lips (chapstick) to keep them soft and moist, it is quite possible to digest more than desired.
Petroleum jelly simply sits on top of our skin’s surface preventing moisture from escaping. But there are plenty of non-petroleum based alternatives that do the same thing! Products with shea butter, beeswax, olive oil, and other plant and essential oils, all moisturize our lips naturally.
Products to consider when choosing your next stick:
-Burt’s Bees Beeswax Lip Balm ($3.00; www.burtsbees.com)
-Mad Gabs Moose Smooch ($3.00; www.madgabs.com)
-Jess’ Bee Natural Lip Balm ($3.00; www.beenaturallipbalm.com)
-Kathy’s Lip Treatment ( $3.50; www.kathys-family.com)
-L’Occitane’s Mini Pure Shea Butter ($8; usa.loccitane.com)
My grandmother has used vaseline on her lips for years. I always wondered why when I was a kid because all it did was make her lips shine for about 5 minutes and then they were dry again. Plus it tastes really weird! Just seems pointless to use it in my opinion.
I agree that Burt’s Bees has awesome chapsticks and lip balms!
Here’s another great one! Zambeezi is from Boulder, CO. It uses organic beeswax and is completely natural (not to mention fair trade). I’ve never loved a chapstick more! they are at http://www.Zambeezi.com.
Lindsey
http://www.Greenjoyment.com
I have been using the Burt’s Bees Lip Balm for a few years now and love it!
I remember when I was little my mom and grandma would put vasoline on my lips!. :/ If I remember correctly, it doesnt have the best taste!