Frequently Asked Questions
What is A balm?
An all-natural, botanically-infused mixture of butters, oils and waxes.
A Balm is a traditional personal care topical used since the dawn of humankind.
Our Shea Butter Balms are anhydrous, containing no water-based ingredients.
Why should I balm?
Simply put, Balming is good for you.
Unlike synthetic and overly-processed moisturizers, our all-natural Balms function as a skin emollient, humectant and protectant.
Balms reinforce the skin’s natural acid mantle layer, sealing in trans-epidermal water loss (TEWL); hydration that would otherwise be lost to the ambient environment.
In addition to their inherent skincare benefits, Balms function as delivery mechanisms for phytoactive botanical compounds.
Ultimately, Balming contributes to healthy, glowing skin.
How do I apply balm?
Our Balms are firm and tactile, with a smooth, rich texture, and limited greasiness.
Using one or two fingertips, firmly but smoothly press through and along the Balm surface allowing the desired amount to accumulate in a small curl.
One can gently apply Balm directly to the desired site, or first rub between both hands allowing to melt into a thin, applicable layer.
Can my sensitive skin tolerate the balm?
Our Balms contain all-natural ingredients traditionally used for skin care and wellness.
We choose essential oils based on their inherent low photo-toxicity and limited capacity to sensitize.
Sensitization refers to the process by which the topical application of an essential oil elicits an inflammatory dermal (skin) response. This manifests as either an immediate local irritation, or a delayed hypersensitivity response after repeat exposure.
Photo-toxicity occurs when certain volatile compounds applied to the skin are exposed to UV light, initiating a topical inflammatory reaction.
Any individual may experience a sensitivity reaction to a particular essential oil.
We recommend patch testing any Balm on a small area of skin prior to general use.
I left my balm in the sun, what happened?
Our all-natural Balms are heat sensitive, with an average melting point of 100 degrees F.
Their texture can differ depending upon ambient conditions
Over time, Balm that has been exposed to heat/cold cycles may become waxy or grainy.
Balm may also develop a “bloom,” a fine, dust-like top layer comprised of separated lipids.
These changes do not alter the quality or function of the Balm.
We recommend against leaving Balm in a car on a warm, sunny day.
How do i make my balm beautiful again?
To refresh overexposed Balm, gently melt until liquid and then freeze back into form.
The most simple and practical Balm melting techniques include:
Scoop out Balm into a double-boiler, melt over low heat.
On a hot day, leave closed Balm tin in direct sunlight for 2-3 hours.
Once melted allow the Balm to begin cooling to room temperature.
As it begins to set, place in the freezer to shock for 15 minutes.
The Balm will now have its original texture profile restored.
Always handle a hot tin with care.
Do not apply an open flame directly to tin.
Do not place tin into the microwave.