Homemade Non-petroleum Jelly (Natural Vaseline Recipe)

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Non-petroleum jelly, or homemade vaseline, was one of the very first natural body care products I ever made. It was so simple and the results were so impressive that I was immediately aboard the DIY train! 

When I originally wrote about making non-petroleum jelly, back in 2011 (many years after I discovered it), I proposed the idea that creating a non-petroleum jelly made for a more peaceful and joyful home environment. That may seem like an outlandish idea, but it is honestly true for me! 

For those who know me personally, it's no surprise that I'm genuinely passionate about this. In fact, I find it quite exhilarating. It may sound a bit over the top, but that's just how it is!

The reasons why crafting my own non-petroleum jelly brings me peace and joy are multifaceted:

  • Peace of mind comes from knowing exactly what goes into it and being able to avoid petroleum-based products like Vaseline.
  • The sheer delight of creating something from scratch adds a sense of joy to the process. It's so simple that even the kids can join in.
  • I must admit I find immense satisfaction in making things on my own. It's almost addictive.

If you decide to give this a try, I'm confident that you'll feel a great sense of accomplishment too!

Why Natural Vaseline?

Using natural Vaseline is important because it eliminates the potential exposure to synthetic chemicals and petroleum by-products that are commonly found in commercial petroleum-based products.

These natural ingredients provide moisturizing, protective, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties, making it a healthier choice for those seeking to avoid the potential risks associated with synthetic chemicals. Additionally, natural Vaseline can be a more sustainable and eco-friendly option, as it reduces the reliance on non-renewable petroleum resources. Overall, using natural Vaseline supports a more natural and holistic approach to skincare, promoting both personal health and environmental well-being.

Homemade natural Vaseline is a wonderful alternative to the commercial petroleum-based product. By using simple and natural ingredients like beeswax and olive oil, you can create a nourishing and moisturizing balm that is free from synthetic chemicals.

This homemade version is not only effective for soothing dry and chapped skin, but it also provides a protective barrier against harsh environmental elements. Additionally, the natural ingredients offer added benefits such as anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, making it a great choice for those looking for a more wholesome skincare option. With its simple preparation and natural goodness, homemade natural Vaseline is a fantastic addition to any beauty and wellness routine.

Ingredients for Homemade Non-Petroleum Jelly

Making non-petroleum jelly is a great way to avoid using the potentially harmful ingredients found in traditional petroleum jelly. Fortunately, there are plenty of natural alternatives available that can be made at home with simple ingredients.

Beeswax

Beeswax is used in this non-petroleum jelly to provide a natural barrier and help to thicken the mixture. When I first made this, I purchased a beeswax block and grated it in order to measure the correct amount. I now use beeswax pastilles

I prefer purchasing beeswax pastilles (or pellets) over blocks for their convenience in measuring. It makes it so much faster and easier. The pellets are not significantly more costly than the blocks, and any slight price increase is worth it for the time and effort saved!

Yellow pellets are generally preferred to white ones since the latter have undergone refining processes that strip them of their natural properties. But white pellets can work if needed. 

Learn more about using beeswax in homemade body care products here. 

Olive oil

The original recipe uses olive oil, but coconut oil, jojoba oil, and even avocado oil are all great options as they are beneficial to the skin and provide moisture.

Olive oil is often used in homemade skin care due to its rich moisturizing properties, high antioxidant content, and natural anti-inflammatory benefits. It can help nourish and hydrate the skin, protect against environmental damage, and soothe irritation, making it a popular choice for natural skincare formulations.

Since olive oil is often adulterated, it is best to use a high-quality extra virgin olive oil from a trusted source. I often purchase ione from Mountain Rose Herbs. Wildly Organic is a great option too. 

How to Make Non-Petroleum Jelly

Making your own non-petroleum jelly is easier than you might think. With just two simple ingredients, you can create a moisturizing, petroleum-free alternative to traditional vaseline. 

Step-by-Step Guide to Homemade Vaseline (Non-Petroleum Jelly)

Let's dive in to using simple and natural ingredients to make a natural vaseline alternative. The following is quick and easy to make and is  a safe and eco-friendly alternative to commercial products. Follow these steps to make your own homemade natural vaseline.

Preparing Your Ingredients

To make your own non-petroleum jelly, you will need the following ingredients:

1/8 cup beeswax pastilles (about 1 ounce)
1/2 cup olive oil

You will also need a double boiler or a saucepan and a heat-safe bowl. I like to use a canning jar or heatproof glass measuring cup in a pot of water. You’ll also need a jar to store your finished product.

The Melting Process

Begin by placing the beeswax pellets and olive oil in a double boiler or a heat-safe bowl set over a pot of simmering water (or canning jar/pyrex measuring cup in a pot of water (as pictured). Be sure to use low heat and stir occasionally until the beeswax  melts completely.

Mixing and Cooling

Once all of your ingredients are melted together, remove the mixture from the heat and carefully transfer the mixture into jars or containers.

Let the mixture cool completely before using it. As it cools, it will thicken and become more solid.

Kids will enjoy watching the mixture harden from the bottom up (I know I did).

Original photo from 2011 🙂

Once completely cool, add lid and close tightly.

If you want a softer consistency, add more oil. It's okay to remelt the jelly after it has hardened. Just keep working on it until you are happy with the consistency.

Storing Your Homemade Product

Store your homemade non-petroleum jelly in a cool, dry place. It will keep for several months, and you can use it just like you would use traditional vaseline.

Uses for your homemade, non-petroleum jelly:

This petroleum-free alternative is great for moisturizing dry skin. Here are some ways I've used it and can recommend:

  • To smooth dry patches of skin
  • To provide a protective layer or barrier
  • Around your hairline when coloring your hair so the color doesn't get on your skin.
  • As a lip balm
  • Any way in which you might use a petroleum-based jelly, like Vaseline.

Have you made non-petroleum jelly before? If not, do you think you'll give this a try?

Post updated on May 17, 2024

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141 Comments

  1. This looks like a really great recipe to make. Is the consistency like gel or like a lip balm? I would like to try it out on the lips, I like the idea of using just two ingredients!

    1. It’s fairly hard, like a balm. I have never tried putting it in tubes like my lip balm recipe. I usually just use it out of the jar.

      Although it is hard, it softens very easily (which is why I’d want to check it in tubes to make sure it doesn’t melt in your pocket!).

  2. I’ve been looking for a replacement for petroleum jelly! I rarely use it anyway, but on the occasions that I feel its warranted, I always cringe. I wonder if I could do something similar to Vicks Vaporub if I added the right essential oils……

      1. Someone actually made a replacement for VICKS on Pinterest. It sounded really good. You should have a look.

        1. Hello. Regarding what Kelly said last month: “I also make a salve with essential oils, using Coconut Oil. It works great!! and has a nice smell to it too”, would it be possible to send me your recipe for this? I would appreciate it greatly if you would send it. Thank you, and G-d bless.

      2. You can buy organic menthol crystals to add to this. How much would depend on how strong you want it to be. You could make it a weaker mix for babies and young children or stronger for adults.

    1. Yes, you can make a vapor rub out of this recipe. The one I make is a little different base, but it works miracles! It has helped MANY people. Try using wintergreen, eucalyptus & peppermint along with lavender. It doesn’t necessarily smell the best, but has a LOT of healing porperties… enjoy!

    2. Kate,
      I make a replacement for vicks vapor rub. Its fairly simple. Eucalyptus, peppermint, rose hip, and lavender oils that you add to the non petroleum jelly. It also smells good and when you put it on it is soothing.

  3. I love this idea! My daughter and I love making our own homemade bath and body products as well. This is definitely next on our list. Thanks for sharing!

  4. I’m SO doing this!!! I keep vaseline around “just in case” but I need to dispose of that and make this … plus my kids would love doing this w/ me! Where is the best place to find beeswax? I guess I’ll check the local farmer’s market? Where do you get yours?

    1. I used to have a local honey place that had their own bees and sold beeswax. Now I have to order it. I’m ordering from Mountain Rose Herbs .

      You might find some at the farmer’s market. I’d encourage you see if there is a bee farm anywhere near by. Otherwise try Mountain Rose Herbs. (There are other places to get beeswax online. I have bought some from Frontier co-op before. But that is the only other place, I’ve purchased it).

      I hope you find some. It will be fun to make this! I promise 🙂

    2. Some honeys have a “brick” of beeswax inside the honey jar and what beeswax could be more pure and natural than honey purchased from a Health Food Store. I’m sure they can get you one that has the wax inside with the honey. Besides, honey is antibacterial as well so if you get some in your non-petrolatum product, all the better.
      Good luck

  5. Stacy:

    I am a new reader to your blog and loving it. I’ve been pinning so many of your homemade recipes on Pinterest and I’ve already made lots of the cleaners! Hubby is in heaven with the scents of the homemade cleaners. My baby girls have recently had the fall chest junk that is going around and I used your tip re: olive oil and eucalyptus for easy chest rub and it seemed to help them both settle down to more restful sleep. This is another one on my list to try. We currently live in Germany (on rotation for Hubby’s job), and I actually found my beeswax from a pharmacy here. Bizarre, I know, but pharmacies are really different here, plus Germany itself looks at healthcare and medicines really different as well (we’re loving it). At any rate, I have a nice big bag of beeswax pellets to use for this recipe as well as your homemade calendula salve.

    Thanks for all your insight and great posts. Your blog is truly a joy to read.

    Blessings!

  6. Courtney, thanks so much for your kind words. I’m excited to hear that you have already made some of the cleaners and are enjoying them.

    How fun that you can get beeswax from a pharmacy! I would love that 🙂

  7. Stacy, I also like many of the above comments want to make this! We rarely use vaseline but have before. I also think it would be cute in a basket for a babyshower with a cute bow tied around it. There are so many pregnant women around me that babies are on my mind, lol!

    Thank you so much for linking up at Healthy 2day Wednesdays! I always learn a lot from your posts! And so excited to be joined with Stephanie, you and a bunch of other awesome ladies over at Keeper of the Home!

    1. I haven’t tried Vaseline on cotton balls as a fire starter! That is clever. I assume this would work since as well since oil is flammable. But, I would be hesitant to use my precious olive oil in this way 🙂 If you plan to use it for this purpose, I’d make it with a cheaper oil.

      I wanted to try it today, but it was way too hot for a fire here! If it’s cold tomorrow, I’ll give it a try.

  8. This recipie has REALLY caught my attention. My children have all suffered from eczema at some or another. However, it has been the worse for my son. His poor little face breaks out with every change in the weather. So, since the fall temps have come, so have the itchy red patches. The Dr. recommends a prescription ointment, along with Vaseline. So I am SUPER excited to find a natural alternative to Vaseline. YAY!!!!!!!

    So, currently I am searching around online for beeswax! :o) Thanks so much.

    -Stacie

    P.S. Gorgeous name, by the way! (LOL)

    1. Thanks Stacie. I’m glad you stumbled across this recipe. I hope it works for your family.

      Hope you find some beeswax soon!

      Love your name 🙂

        1. I like to use the half pint mason jars for this. The jar pictured is an old jam jar (and I think I doubled the recipe that partcular day). It makes about 1/2 a cup.

          Yay for buying beeswax!

    2. Hi for children try using TruKid Easy Eczema Therapy Cream. It Calms and hydrates irritated, cracked skin and supports skin‘s moisturizing barrier to ease skin discomforts.

  9. This is SO cool and super easy! We use vapor rub ALOT! What EO’s would you use to make it similar? Tea Tree Oil? And maybe something else? I’m so going to try this and recommend it to a friend who’s babe is SUPER allergic to pretty much everything.

    1. Tea tree oil and eucalyptus oil are used in the BabyVicks. In the grownup’s vicks, use the same oils and some menthol (it comes in crystals but mixes into the oil and dissolves.)

  10. Hi Stacey,

    I use the same recipe. Just wanted to say that as the mixture is cooling, I whip it with a hand held mixer. I mix it for a few seconds, leave it a minute, mix again for a few seconds, leave it a minute & repeat until it is completely cool (maybe 15/20 mins) & then it is soft almost like a cream.

    I use the same mixture for vapo rub. The same mixture for eczema cream for my daughter (although I swap half the olive oil out for other oils like apricot kernal, sweet almond & st.John’s wort)

    Hope some of your readers will find this useful as the balms can be quite hard to spread sometimes.

  11. Hi
    Just found this site. Can you tell me if bees wax is available at Michael’s craft store. I know they sell wax just not sure about it being bees wax. If not where can one purchase it?

    thx great site too

      1. I’ve used cocoa butter in my body butter. You may need to play with your ratios to make it the consistency you are looking for.

      1. Candadilla wax is nice too,or sometimes you could found beeswax based candles in grocery store…. I used baby oil and some mistletoe essence (Strawberry/cranberry oil+peppermint) and it was soooo nice! I add more beeswax so it was more solid but still mushy. so great!
        Wait to see your posts Stacy!

  12. I am wondering how I know if the beeswax I have is food grade. I have a block from Country Lane Candle Supply that says it is 100% natural beeswax, but I want to be sure it is REALLY 100% natural, since they have it marketed to be used for candles, not body products. Does anyone have an answer for me? Thanks!

    1. This is a good question. I’m not sure I know the answer! I have thought the same thing.

      I’ve never used beeswax that is marketed for candles. In one sense I’d think that beeswax is beeswax. But then again, I’m not sure if they process it differently for candle-making. I’m going to have to do some research on this one!

  13. I have been looking for a recipe like this to make my own vaporizing type rub with eucalyptus oil, camphor and peppermint or something like that. I would put some coconut oil into it also because of the anti-inflammatory properties.

  14. I have been looking for a recipe like this to make my own vaporizing type rub. I would put coconut oil in it too because of it’s anti-inflammatory properties. Then add the eucalyptus oil, camphor oil, peppermint oil or some combination of oils to help relieve aches, pains, sinuses, etc.

  15. I can’t wait to try this! I hate using petroleum products but sometimes I have to use Aquaphor when my son has a diaper rash. I’ll feel so much better using this!

  16. I have done something similar with coconut oil and olive oil. I have even added vitamin E and Tea Tree oil if I needed to especially promote healing in an area.

    Thanks for sharing your recipe and pics.

  17. I think adding some lavender to a portion of this would make a good rub to put on hands under gloves for the night to soften your hands.

    1. I have never tried it that way and my initial thoughts are no. I don’t think it would work as well as olive. Plus, it would be a lot more expensive.

  18. Great idea….will have to try this one. Thanks.

    Another source for beeswax for all of those searching: Brushy Mountain Bee Farm. They also have a lip balm starter kit (which I have and love) and several other soap and skin care supplies. My hubby is a bee man and ordered supplies from them; then I started ordering body care supplies from them. Good quality. http://www.brushymountainbeefarm.com

  19. I’ve made this with coconut oil and beeswax and store it in a jar with my cleaning supplies. It’s labeled “Spoon Butter” and is used for rubbing into all wooden and bamboo utensils and cutting boards. Lusciousness.

  20. I am curious about the availablity and cost of beeswax. It’s cold here in Canada. Any ideas on where I can purchase this and what I should ask for?

  21. I love this recipe! I made up a batch and we use it mostly as lip balm. It’s super smooth and not at all grainy. I’m so picky about the texture of my lip balm, and this is nice and much cheaper than the Nivea we normally use. My kids loved making it, and we poured them into containers a little smaller than a carmex container, and flavored some of them with food-grade extracts. We now have mint, lemon, orange, and vanilla flavors of lip balm. I’m making some licorice for a friend of mine. It works great on “crafter’s cuticles” too. I used this for a few days on my cuticles and buffed my nails and I look like I’ve had a manicure. 🙂

    1. Thanks for letting me know, Aimee. I’m glad you are enjoy it.

      It sounds like you are making good use of your non-petroleum jelly. I haven’t tried the natural flavorings before. That sounds like a great idea!

  22. Very good! Thank you!! An excellent base, but my goal is to replace Bag Balm with something non-disgusting. Thinking of adding Tea Tree Oil….

    Comments and suggestions?

  23. Pingback: Face | Pearltrees
  24. Dont know how to make a web site or blog. OH well. I did find on pinterest how to make home made lip gloss using the jelly and kool-aid. Do you know if the olive oil in the new jelly gets rancid? I am going to try it. I am a nurse and maybe this would be a good thing for the people that I take care of that has oxygen. Cant use any petroleum base product on their lips, nose or any part of their body. It can cause the oxygen to explode. Not sure how but it has happened i guess. Thank you for your time.

  25. I made a batch of this today for myself and my son who are suffering with dry cracked lips and it works great!
    I will definitely make more for gifts.
    Thanks for the great ideas!

  26. This is just AMAZING – thanks for sharing! Only saw it via Pinterest now. I repinned with the comment that I think I’ll try this using coconut oil instead just for the added health benefits. If you or someone else gets to trying it that way first before me, let us all know how it turns out. Otherwise I’ll report back once done 🙂

    1. Thanks, Briana.

      I imagine coconut oil would make it a little firmer, but it should work. You might need to reduce the amount of beeswax.

      Let us know how it turns out!

    1. I’m not sure. I have never used soft beeswax before.

      I imagine it would not work very well, since the hard beeswax is what gives the jelly it’s firmness. It would probably turn out too soft.

      I did a quick search and found the Murray’s beeswax usually contains Petrolatum (which I assume is what makes it soft). I try to avoid using products that contain petrolatum, so I wouldn’t advise using it in this recipe.

      Hope that helps.

  27. I did it! I made it and it is doing exactly what it is supposed to do! I love it when a recipe comes together! It is cooling but I, of course, drizzled a bit down the outside accidentally so I scraped it off and used it on my lips. I use a lot of lip balm and this feels the same. I did NOT like the smell of the beeswax nor the olive oil but pressed on regardless and find there is no smell nor taste to it which is a surprise. This is a great basic recipe that can be adjusted to one’s personal needs including adding a scent or whatever else. Additions may require adding or subtracting beeswax and/or oil but that’s the fun of creating our own ‘stuff’. We can do what we want! Thanks for sharing this!

  28. I’ve been using Vaseline on my eyelashes to moisturize and strengthen them as I’ve lost many of them lately. Would this one work the same way?

  29. Hi there,
    So I have attempted to use this recipe using cocoa butter since I don’t have any beeswax, any suggestions? I just put it in the fridge to cool, and I probably used the same amount of cocoa butter as I did olive oil. Hope it works out!!

      1. Unfortunately, it will only stay hard in the refrigerator. I kept added more cocoa butter but it wouldn’t do the trick, wouldn’t even thicken. I added some coconut oil and that thickened it up a tad. So, I guess I’m keeping it stored in the fridge, smells delightful though and beeswax is on its way.
        Thank you!

    1. Hi Rose,
      Yes, it is similar to Vaseline. I use it as a substitute for Vaseline all the time. In fact, wanting to stop using Vaseline was the reason I made this in the first place.

      It is a little more firm than Vaseline. You can experiment with adding more oil if you want it softer.

  30. Microwave works great for this (instead of the hassle of boiling, etc.). Make it in a glass jar, cut the bees wax in smallish chunks, put in microwave for about 2 to 3 minutes, stir, cool, done.

  31. I love making this! I’ve used combinations of all sorts of oils coconut, olive, scented olive oils, and adding vitamin e oil. It’s amazing I hate using the store bought stuff anymore!!!

  32. I have now made a total of eight batches in less than 24 hours. Two triple-batches plain (I like to leave it like this and triple the batch, it fills a pint jar when I do), one to keep one I gave away. And one double batch with 1 1/2 tsp spearmint oil to make it a lip salve. My 11yo helped and she will give it out as party favors for her b-day party. My recommendation: SAVE every small container that is like an old lip balm pot that you can and fill them with this. They would make excellent gifts….. And this may sound odd, but it is a GREAT “udder cream” for my dairy goats. I can’t say thank you enough for all of the money I will save because you shared this!

  33. How long the home made non- P jerry can be kept. Can it it be produced on a large commercial scale to help country living people heal their skin? Can it be used for both women and men or it has age limits and skin type limitation

  34. For everyone who is allergic to petroleum, including myself, I want to say THANK YOU! I am so very excited to have this recipe! In fact, right now I am in the middle of an allergic reaction because apparently the last person who used the basket at the store that I used was wearing a petroleum-based lotion. My hives-covered skin thanks you greatly.

    1. Thanks for your kind words! I’m so sorry you have had an allergic reaction to petroleum! That must be very frustrating. Hope you try this jelly and that it works well for you.

  35. I know there are some people with deeply dry skin that use petrolleum jelly as a facial moisturizer and i really cringe at the thought of putting petrolleum jelly on my face. But i have dry patches on my face and wish to get rid of them (especially on my nose and upper lip when i blow my nose. Curse you, Allergies!!!). Do you think this will be too much or just perfect as a facial moisturizer?

  36. Hi I was wondering if another oil other than Olive would work. I am allergic to Olives… so… Thanks for all your great posts! I am loving getting healthier alternatives.

  37. I would like to make this for gifts this Christmas. What essential oils would you suggest adding to make it smell nice for use as a skin conditioner/moisturizer? And, how much would I add? Thanks. I am new to making my own healthier products, I’m not sure how to to start!

  38. I’ve just made it! Excellent stuff! Want to produce bigger batch as I that was just first try and sample:) Question, judging from ingredients it should be safe in low winter temperature, shouldn’t it? I mean below 0°C when you are supposed to not to use creams which contain water, winter is coming here in Europe and I want to make sure I can use it outside:)

  39. You say to add more wax to soften it if you want a softer consistency. That doesn’t make sense to me. Wouldn’t you add more oil to get a softer consistency instead of wax? Wouldn’t additional beeswax make it harder?

  40. Brilliant! This was soo quick and easy. And so effective. I was low on Olive oil so I used a little almond oil and it came out great. I have used bag balm in the past but it’s petroleum bssed and very sticky.
    This stuff just soaks in so nicely. 3 Treatments and my dry-cracked, sore hands were like new. I have to say this worked better than anything I’ve ever bought for my hand and I know it was pure cause I made it myself!

    Thank You so much.

  41. Best damn hand-repair cream I’ve ever used!
    Easier than running to the store to buy it AND the cheapest AND because I’m fussy about my oils THE most pure.
    Love it!!!!