The “crayon lipstick experiment” is a popular DIY beauty trend where people melt crayons and mix the wax with oils or lip balm to create homemade lipstick. While it is a real craft project found across social media and craft blogs, it is not a scientifically tested cosmetic product, and its safety depends entirely on the ingredients used.
Background: Where the Trend Came From
The crayon lipstick experiment emerged from the broader DIY beauty movement on platforms like YouTube and Pinterest, where users share homemade makeup recipes. The idea likely grew from two sources: childhood memories of using crayons as face paint and the appeal of creating custom colors at a low cost. Early videos and tutorials showed people melting non-toxic crayons, adding coconut oil or petroleum jelly, and pouring the mixture into empty lipstick tubes or small containers. The trend gained traction because it promised a nearly unlimited shade range, from standard reds and pinks to unusual blues and greens, which commercial lipsticks rarely offer in a single product.
How the Experiment Works
The basic process involves a few simple steps, though variations exist.
- Select crayons: Choose non-toxic crayons (most major brands like Crayola are labeled non-toxic and conform to ASTM D-4236, a standard for art materials).
- Melt the wax: Break the crayons into small pieces and melt them in a double boiler or a microwave-safe container. Direct heat can burn the wax or create fumes.
- Add a base: Mix in a moisturizing agent such as coconut oil, shea butter, or a plain lip balm. The ratio typically ranges from 1 part crayon to 2–3 parts base, depending on desired opacity and creaminess.
- Pour and cool: Pour the liquid into a lipstick mold or empty tube and let it set completely, which usually takes 30–60 minutes at room temperature.
The result is a solid, colored balm that applies like a waxy lipstick. The color payoff depends on the amount of pigment in the crayon and the ratio of crayon to base.
How to Choose Crayons and Additives
Not all crayons are equal for cosmetic use. The key is to pick products that are explicitly non-toxic and free of harmful pigments. Most children’s crayons in the US and EU are regulated for safety, but they are not designed for skin contact. Some crayons contain paraffin wax, which is generally recognized as safe for topical use in low concentrations, but others may include dyes or fillers that could irritate sensitive skin. For the base, choose food-grade oils like coconut, olive, or sweet almond oil, or a simple unscented lip balm. Avoid using essential oils or fragrances, as they can cause allergic reactions on the lips. Also, be aware that some crayons are labeled “washable” and may contain surfactants that are not suitable for ingestion (since lipstick is inevitably swallowed in small amounts).
Common Problems and How to Fix Them
People who try the experiment often encounter a few recurring issues:
- Too hard or crumbly: If the lipstick drags on the lips, you likely used too much crayon wax. Add more oil or balm and remelt.
- Too soft or greasy: The opposite problem occurs when you add too much oil. Reheat and add a small piece of crayon to firm it up.
- Color fades quickly: Crayon pigments are not designed for long wear. The color may transfer or wear off within an hour or two. There is no easy fix; it’s a limitation of the DIY approach.
- Grainy texture: This happens when the wax and oil separate during cooling. Stir thoroughly while the mixture is liquid and cool it slowly.
- Mold growth: Because homemade lipstick contains water-free ingredients, mold is unlikely, but if you add any water-based ingredients (like aloe vera gel), it can spoil. Keep the product dry and use it within a few months.
Safety and Health Considerations
The most important question is whether crayon lipstick is safe to wear. The short answer is: it is probably safe for most people in small amounts, but it is not recommended for regular use. Crayons are not manufactured under cosmetic regulations, so they may contain trace impurities or pigments that are not approved for lip products. The FDA does not regulate crayons as cosmetics, and while non-toxic labels mean they won’t cause serious harm if accidentally ingested, they are not intended for prolonged skin contact or ingestion. For example, some red pigments used in crayons are derived from dyes that are safe for paper but have not been evaluated for use on mucous membranes. If you have sensitive skin, allergies, or cracked lips, the risk of irritation increases. Also, the melting process can release fumes if overheated, so always work in a well-ventilated area and avoid burning the wax. If you are pregnant or have a compromised immune system, it is best to avoid homemade cosmetics altogether.
Comparison with Commercial Lipstick
Commercial lipsticks are formulated with cosmetic-grade ingredients, including pigments that are approved for use on lips, emollients, and preservatives. They undergo stability testing to ensure they don’t separate, grow bacteria, or cause allergic reactions. Crayon lipstick lacks all of that. The color range is wider in DIY, but the wear time, comfort, and safety are inferior. Commercial lipsticks also come in finishes (matte, satin, gloss) that are hard to replicate with crayons. The cost comparison is interesting: a box of 24 crayons costs about $5, and a bottle of coconut oil is around $10, so the initial investment is low. However, you only get a small amount of lipstick per crayon, and the quality is not comparable to a drugstore lipstick that costs the same. For most people, the experiment is more about the fun of making something than about getting a usable product.
Alternatives to Crayon Lipstick
If you want a custom color without the risks, there are safer DIY options:
- Use cosmetic-grade pigments: You can buy mica powders or iron oxide pigments from cosmetic suppliers and mix them with a lip balm base. These are designed for skin use and offer similar customization.
- Mix existing lipsticks: Melt two or three lipsticks you already own to create a new shade. This is safer because all ingredients are cosmetic-grade.
- Use beetroot powder or cocoa powder: These natural colorants can be mixed with shea butter and beeswax for a tinted balm, though the color payoff is lighter and less vibrant.
- Buy a custom lipstick service: Some online companies allow you to design a shade from a palette, and they manufacture it professionally.
These alternatives give you the creative control without the safety concerns of crayons.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is crayon lipstick safe to eat? No, it is not meant to be eaten. Even non-toxic crayons are not food products, and the pigments and waxes may not be safe for ingestion in large amounts. If you accidentally swallow a small piece, it is unlikely to cause harm, but you should avoid making a habit of it.
Can I use any crayon brand? Technically, yes, but you should only use brands that are explicitly labeled non-toxic and conform to safety standards like ASTM D-4236. Avoid unknown or imported brands that may not have the same safety certifications.
How long does crayon lipstick last on the lips? It varies, but most people report that it wears off within 1–2 hours, especially if you eat or drink. The waxy texture can also be drying, so you may need to reapply frequently.
Will crayon lipstick stain my lips? Some highly pigmented crayons, especially reds and purples, can leave a temporary stain. This is not harmful, but it can be difficult to remove. Use an oil-based makeup remover or coconut oil to wipe it off.
Can I make crayon lipstick without a microwave? Yes, you can use a double boiler on the stove. Place a heat-safe bowl over a pot of simmering water and melt the crayons slowly, stirring with a disposable stick. Never melt crayons directly in a pan because they can burn and release toxic fumes.
Is this experiment suitable for children? It can be a fun craft with adult supervision, but children should not wear the final product on their lips. The melting process involves heat, and the finished lipstick is not a toy. If you do it with kids, emphasize that it is for pretend play, not for actual use.
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