Petroleum Products: Lipsticks

Just like most of your cosmetics, lipstick is made from a unique blend of pigments, chemicals, oils and emollients that vary from manufacturer to manufacturer. While not every recipe is the same, the majority include some natural and synthetic chemicals that complete the stick.

Of these ingredients, petroleum plays a big role, as it may be used in a variety of ways dependent on the brand. One of those ways may be found in waxes, which are used as a stabilizer for the stick and may be made from paraffin, or refined petroleum.

Another instance would be the use of petrolatum, which is used both for its moisturizing properties and the shiny coat it leaves behind.

Lipsticks have come under fire for a number of reasons, some stating that ingestion is not safe but inevitable, others claiming lead is used in the making, and still others who give a long list of additional ingredients that are harmful if swallowed.

Perhaps for this reason, a number of videos and articles have popped up on the internet on how to make lipstick from crayons. They are, after all, nontoxic. Below is an instructional DIY video on making crayon lipstick. The maker of the video started creating crayon lipsticks after discovering hers were made with lead. Coconut oil can be used instead of castor oil, if desired.