DIY Highlighter Sticks for a Natural Summer Glow

There’s something about summer that makes me want to add a little glow to everything — my skin included. With festivals, weddings, beach holidays, and garden parties filling the calendar, it’s the perfect time to embrace a natural shimmer. But instead of reaching for shop-bought highlighters packed with synthetic ingredients, it's super easy to make your DIY highlighter, shimmer sticks or balms.

DIY Highlighter Sticks for a Natural Summer Glow

These homemade balms are simple, skin-friendly, and endlessly customisable. Best of all, you can pour the mixture into reusable lip balm sticks or upcycle small empty jars and tins you already have at home.

Whether you’re after a subtle cheek glow, a touch of shimmer on your collarbones, or a glossy highlight for your lips, this recipe has you covered.

If you’re looking for easy ways to get started, I’ve included links to some of my favourite ingredients and tools below. These are Amazon affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you choose to purchase through them, at no extra cost to you.

DIY Highlighter Stick or Jar Balm Recipe

Ingredients (makes around 2–3 sticks or small jars):

• 2 tablespoons beeswax pellets (or candelilla wax for a vegan option)

• 2 tablespoons shea butter or cocoa butter

• 2 tablespoons coconut oil or sweet almond oil

• ½–1 teaspoon cosmetic-grade mica powder (choose gold, bronze, pink, pearl, or silver)

• Optional: 5–10 drops essential oil (such as vanilla, lavender, or rose)

You will also need:

• Lip balm tubes, small clean jars, or tins

• Heatproof jug or bowl

• Double boiler or microwave

Method

1. Melt

   Gently melt the beeswax, butter, and oil together in a double boiler or in the microwave in short bursts, stirring between each burst, until fully liquid.

2. Mix

   Remove from heat and stir in the mica powder until well combined. Add a few drops of essential oil if desired.

3. Pour

   Carefully pour the mixture into lip balm sticks, clean jars, or tins. Let them cool at room temperature until firm.

4. Use

   Swipe the stick directly onto your skin, or use a clean fingertip to gently dab from a jar or tin onto your cheeks, brow bones, collarbones, or lips.

How to Prepare and Sterilise Your Containers

Even though these balms are oil-based (which makes them relatively stable), it is essential to use clean, sterilised containers to help them last as long as possible and stay skin-safe.

• Wash jars, tins, or sticks thoroughly with warm, soapy water and rinse well.

• For glass jars or metal tins, place them in a low oven (about 100°C) for 10–15 minutes to dry and sterilise.

• Let containers cool completely before filling.

• For plastic containers, wash and allow them to air dry; do not heat them in the oven.

Tips for Best Preservation

• Store your balms in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight or heat, as this can cause melting or spoilage.

• Use clean hands or a spatula when applying from a jar to prevent introducing bacteria.

• Do not add fresh plant material or any water-based substances, as this can reduce the shelf life.

• Add a few drops of vitamin E oil to help slow down oxidation and extend freshness.

How Long Will They Last?

With proper care and storage, your DIY shimmer sticks or balms should last around six to twelve months. If you notice any changes in smell, colour, or texture, it is best to discard them.

Summer-Inspired Colour Combinations

• Rose Gold Glow:

  Rose mica with a drop of rose absolute or geranium for a soft, romantic sheen.

• Golden Hour Highlight:

  Gold mica with vanilla or ylang-ylang oil for a warm, sunlit glow.

• Bronze Goddess:

  Bronze mica with a pinch of cocoa powder and sweet orange oil for a rich, bronzed effect.

• Cool Moonlight:

  Pearl or silver mica with lavender oil for an ethereal, moonlit shimmer.

DIY Highlighter Sticks or Balm: Summer-Inspired Colour Combinations

DIY Highlighter Sticks Final Thoughts

I love how playful, personal, and eco-friendly these shimmer balms are. You can tailor the colours, scents, and packaging to suit your mood or occasion, and they make beautiful handmade gifts.

Whether you are dancing at a festival, celebrating at a summer wedding, or just want to feel a little extra on an ordinary day, these DIY shimmer balms are the perfect natural glow-up.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Do I need to sterilise my jars or tins? Yes, it’s highly recommended. Even though these balms are oil-based (meaning they’re less prone to bacteria and mould), using clean, sterilised containers reduces the risk of contamination and helps your product last longer. Wash everything thoroughly, and for glass or metal, pop them in a low oven (about 100°C) for 10–15 minutes to sterilise. Let them cool fully before filling.

2. How long will these shimmer balms last? If stored properly in a cool, dry place, they should last around six to twelve months. Adding a few drops of vitamin E oil can help extend the shelf life by slowing the natural oxidation of oils. Always check for any off smells, changes in colour, or grainy texture before using, especially after several months.

3. Can I use glitter instead of mica? No, I don’t recommend using craft glitter, as it’s not skin-safe and can be irritating, especially on the face or lips. Always use cosmetic-grade mica powder, specifically designed for use in skincare products, to achieve a beautiful, natural shimmer.

4. What’s the difference between making a stick and using a jar? The recipe is exactly the same! The only difference is the container into which you pour it. Sticks are handy for mess-free application, while jars or tins are brilliant for reusing what you already have and are great for applying with your fingers.

5. Can I make this balm vegan? Absolutely. Swap the beeswax for candelilla wax, a plant-based alternative. Keep in mind that candelilla wax is slightly firmer, so you may want to adjust the amount or add more oil to achieve the desired texture.