DIY Zinc Oxide Stick for Itchy Skin
A gentle balm for irritated skin, rashes, or underarm discomfort
Ingredients
- 20 g tallow or substitute shea butter for a vegan version
- 4 g beeswax adds firmness; adjust to preference
- 4 g castor oil soothing, gently antimicrobial
- 2 g non-nano zinc oxide ≈ 6–7% of total balm
- 1 drop vitamin E optional, antioxidant
- 2 drops D-panthenol optional, skin-soothing
- 3 drops essential oil optional; try Roman chamomile, lavender, or blue tansy
Instructions
- In a double boiler or small pan, gently melt the tallow and beeswax just until fully liquified.
- Remove from heat and stir in castor oil, then zinc oxide, mixing slowly to avoid inhaling the powder. A mask is recommended while handling dry zinc oxide.
- Add vitamin E, D-panthenol, and essential oils once the balm has cooled slightly but is still pourable.
- Pour into clean mini deodorant tubes, lip balm tubes, or a small jar.
- Let cool fully at room temperature or in the fridge to speed up setting.
Video
Notes
You can increase zinc oxide to 10–20% for a stronger barrier, but it will feel thicker and leave more residue.
For a whipped balm version, omit the beeswax and whip the tallow/oil mixture once it’s soft. Store in a jar.
Sub tallow with shea butter and beeswax with candelilla or carnauba wax for a vegan option. (You may have to adjust the amount to get the desired texture.)
Always label your containers, especially if storing in similar tubes to lip balm or deodorant.