Why Balms Matter
We’re so used to products that promise instant results and come in plastic pumps with ten-syllable ingredients. Balms, I've come to realise are simiple and powerful. as is the touch and pressure of application.
When we touch skin, our own or someone else’s, the body releases oxytocin, the “bonding hormone” that helps reduce stress and promote calm.
Gentle pressure activates special nerve endings called C-tactile fibres, which are linked to comfort, emotional regulation, and even pain relief.
So when you take a moment to rub in a balm, you're not just soothing skin, you're soothing the nervous system too.
What Is a Balm?
A balm is a solid oil-based salve, usually made from:
- Infused oils (like calendula or comfrey),
- A wax to give it structure (usually beeswax or a plant-based alternative, I use candelilla wax (Vegan),
- And sometimes essential oils for added benefits.
Unlike creams or lotions, there’s no water in a balm, which means:
- No need for preservatives,
- A much longer shelf life,
- And a more concentrated product that actually sticks around on your skin.
They’re brilliant for dry skin, cuts, scrapes, rashes, sore lips, and even aches and pains - you just rub it where it hurts.
