Nourish and Tame: A DIY Beeswax Hair Styling Balm for Natural Hold

The good news is that harsh chemicals aren’t necessary for an effective hair styling wax. Many store-bought options contain synthetic fragrances, PEG compounds, propylene glycol, parabens, silicones, or even phthalates. By making your own, you can choose wholesome ingredients that bring balance back to your body—especially to your hair and scalp—while still giving you the hold and style you want.

Let’s look at the ingredients and the why and how of each one:

1. Why Beeswax?

   • Beeswax helps solidify the balm and create a protective barrier on the skin. It’s also rich in vitamin A, which supports skin cell regeneration.

2. Shea Butter Benefits:

   • Shea butter is high in fatty acids and vitamins, helping to moisturize and soothe dryness or irritation. It also adds a soft consistency to the balm.

3. Coconut Oil vs. Castor Oil:

   • Coconut oil is known for its quick-absorbing, moisturizing properties.

   • Castor oil is thicker and particularly helpful in locking in moisture, which can be especially beneficial for very dry or chapped areas.

4. Importance of Cooling Before Adding Essential Oils:

   • Essential oils are volatile and can evaporate (or degrade) if exposed to high heat for too long. Allowing the melted mixture to cool slightly helps preserve their therapeutic properties and aromatic profile.

5. Essential Oil Notes:

   • Rosemary essential oil provides a stimulating, clarifying scent and has antioxidant properties.

   • Lavender essential oil adds a calming, soothing effect, which can benefit both the skin and your sense of relaxation.

Ingredients

• 1½ tablespoons beeswax

• 2 tablespoons shea butter

• 1 tablespoon coconut oil

• 1 tablespoon castor oil

• 10 drops rosemary essential oil

• 10 drops lavender essential oil

Instructions

1. Melt the Base Ingredients:

   • Combine the beeswax, shea butter, coconut oil, and castor oil in a double boiler.

   • Warm gently over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until everything is fully melted.

2. Cool Slightly & Add Essential Oils:

   • Remove from heat and let the mixture cool for about 1–2 minutes (just enough so it’s not scorching hot).

   • Stir in the rosemary and lavender essential oils.

3. Transfer & Set:

   • Carefully pour the mixture into your chosen container (tin or small jar).

   • Allow it to cool completely at room temperature before sealing with a lid.

4. Shelf Life & Storage:

   • To prolong freshness, store the balm in a cool, dark place. If you notice any off smell or color changes, it may be time to make a fresh batch.

   • The combination of beeswax, oils, and essential oils is generally stable for several months to a year, depending on storage conditions.

5. Customization:

   • You can adapt this recipe by swapping out castor oil for another carrier oil if preferred (e.g., sweet almond, jojoba, or olive oil).

   • Adjusting the beeswax-to-oil ratio will affect the balm’s consistency. More beeswax creates a firmer balm; less beeswax yields a softer one.

6. Application Tips:

   • A little goes a long way. Warm the balm slightly between your fingers before applying to your hair to help it spread evenly.

Favorite EOs: Click here to purchase the essential oils you’re missing.

Favorite Home Herbalism Store: Click here to purchase the home herbalism ingredients you’re missing.

Try it and let us know your experience below!