Formulation and Evaluation of A Herbal Lip Balm Using Natural Oils and Beetroot Extract

The growing consumer preference for natural and chemical-free cosmetic products has accelerated the development of herbal formulations in personal care. The present study aimed to formulate and evaluate a herbal lip balm using natural ingredients as a safe and effective alternative to synthetic lip care products. Cocoa butter was used as the base material, while coconut oil, olive oil, and glycerine were incorporated as emollients and humectants. Vitamin E was added as an antioxidant, and beetroot extract was utilised as a natural colouring agent. Five different formulations were prepared by varying the oil composition. The formulated lip balms were evaluated for organoleptic properties, melting point, pH, spreadability, stability, and skin irritation. All formulations exhibited a smooth texture, uniform dark pink colour, and pleasant odour. The melting points ranged between 60–70 °C, indicating appropriate consistency and thermal stability. The pH values were close to neutral, suggesting good compatibility with lip skin. Stability studies conducted for 30 days under different storage conditions revealed no significant changes in physicochemical properties. Skin irritation tests confirmed the safety of the formulations for topical application. The findings demonstrate that herbal lip balm prepared using natural ingredients provides effective moisturisation, stability, and safety, supporting its potential as an eco-friendly and skincompatible alternative to conventional synthetic lip balms.