Burt’s Bees is a company that makes natural personal care products. They test on animals, but only when mandated by law.
Hands down, Burt’s Bees is one of my favorite companies. They make fantastic products using natural ingredients with no harmful chemicals and their branding is eco-friendly and stylish.
Now whether they’re all that eco-friendly is debatable (plastic packaging, animal testing) but most of their products tend to be pretty good for you and the environment.
If you are looking for a short answer to the question of whether Burt’s Bees is good or bad for you, here you go:
Burt’s Bees products are generally devoid of any harmful chemicals including parabens, phthalates, or SLS. They are also made of all-natural ingredients that make it quite safe. However, they do contain chemical coloring agents, and may not be completely eco-friendly. They are also not FDA-approved. So, considering this, it is important that you take a judicious call on whether you want to use Burt’s Bees or not.
Now, here is a more nuanced, longer answer.
Table of Contents
Is Burt’s Bee lip balm good?
Burt’s Bees is better than regular Chapstick. It has beeswax, honey, Shea butter, cocoa seed butter, and sunflower oil. All of these are fantastic ingredients that are known to be great for skin and smell nice.
ALSO READ: Is NIVEA lip balm good or bad for you?
Is Burt’s Bees paraben-free?
Yes, Burt’s Bee is paraben-free and products are formulated without parabens, phthalates, petrolatum, and SLS to make them worth it for your skin.
Burt’s Bees products do not list parabens as an ingredient in their product descriptions.
However, the company itself has stated that they do use parabens when required by law to do so.
Do Burt’s Bees products contain harmful ingredients?
Burt’s Bees products are not on the list of harmful ingredients that I know of. They might test on animals or use animal bi-products, but probably no more than any other similar company does for testing for FDA standards.
Is Burt’s Bee organic?
Burt’s Bees do not claim to be organic. However, their ingredients are all-natural and they do not use any harmful chemicals.
Some of the common all-natural ingredients that make up Burt’s Bees lip balm products are
- Beeswax
- Coconut oil
- Sunflower seed oil
- Peppermint oil
- Lanolin
- Rosemary leaf extract
- Soybean oil
- Canola oil
- Limonene
What kind of lip balm do Burt’s bees make?
Burt’s Bees makes several different kinds of lip balms including Original, Minted Rosemary, Peony, Milk, and Honey, and more. They come in different styles of packaging including squeeze tubes, lip balm tins, waxy sticks, and more.
Do Burt’s Bees products contain Lanolin?
Yes, Burt’s Bees products contain lanolin. Lanolin is an animal byproduct of the wool industry. It’s more of a wax than a fat, and therefore is very resistant to chemical extraction.
It is often found in lip balms because it keeps moisture out while keeping lips moist on the inside, and tastes good too!
Is Burt’s Bees vegan?
No, Burt’s Bees isn’t a vegan company. They test on animals and use animal byproducts in some of their products. Other products might not be vegan if they contain lanolin, honey, or beeswax as those are all animal byproducts.
Do Burt’s Bees products contain Gluten?
According to the manufacturers, it is difficult to define its products as gluten-free. This is because its products could be manufactured on shared lines where gluten-containing products are also manufactured. Additionally, raw materials used by the company could be processed along with other materials that contain gluten.
Burt’s Bees also clarifies that its products are likely to contain gluten and other allergens. You are advised to go through the ingredients list and also consult your physician before using any Burt’s Bees products – in case you have celiac disease, or have other allergies.
Do Burt’s Bees products contain palm oil?
As per the company website, Burt’s Bees does not source palm oil directly to manufacture its products. Nevertheless, some of its natural ingredients could be derived from palm oil or palm kernel oil.
Palm oil contains higher levels of saturated fats as compared to other natural oils. However, the percentage of ingredients derived from it in Burt’s Bees products is too small to cause any side effects.
Meanwhile, the company is a member of the Roundtable on Sustainable Palm Oil and seeks to encourage sustainable sources of ingredients derived from palm oil.
Do Burt’s Bees use soy?
Burt’s Bees lip balm contains soybean oil as a common ingredient. Soybean oil is rich in vitamin E which protects the lips from inflammation and dehydration. It also contains linoleic acid and antioxidants. It is also certified as a non-toxic and safe ingredient by the Environmental Working Group.
Do Burt’s Bees products contain lead?
This is a more complicated question.
Burt’s Bees products are tested to ensure they are safe for use on humans, but this does not necessarily mean that they do not contain traces of lead within the product.
Some of their ingredients may be derived from minerals taken out of the earth, which might contain some trace amounts of lead if it was present in the soil where it was mined.
Do Burt’s Bees products contain honey?
Burt’s Bees uses honey as an ingredient in some of its lip balm products – these are names of a few of them.
- Honey Lip Balm
- Honey Rescue Balm
- Matcha and Honey Lip Balm
- Lavender and Honey Lip Butter
Honey is a wonderful exfoliator – it removes dry and dead skin, keeping the lips soft and moisturized. It also keeps infections at bay.
Do Burt’s Bees products use oxybenzone?
Oxybenzone is usually used in sunscreen products. However, Burt’s Bees sun care lip balm products do not contain the compound. They use zinc oxide instead to protect the skin from ultraviolet radiation.
Oxybenzone is a harmful chemical that is known to be a hormone disruptor and an allergen. It can also interfere with a person’s metabolism and cause other negative health effects.
Is Burt’s Bee lip balm toxic?
Lip balms from Burt’s Bees are not considered toxic because there are several organic ingredients used to make it. However, many of the chemicals found in Burt’s Bees products are known to be toxic for both humans and the environment.
Do Burt’s Bees products contain PFAS?
PFAS (perfluorooctanoic acid) are chemicals that increase the durability and consistency of your cosmetic products. They are toxic and cause adverse health effects like skin rashes and allergies, eye damage, and asthma-like symptoms upon frequent inhalation.
Burt’s Bees however does not use PFAs in their products.
Do Burt’s Bees chapsticks contain nuts?
Burt’s Bees does not list any ingredients that contain nuts on their product page for lip balms online.
They do not make a specific allergen statement for peanuts, but they do make a statement that their products are produced in a facility that processes many different common allergens.
How is Burt’s Bees lip balm made?
Burt’s Bees uses beeswax as one of the main ingredients to hold everything together for this product. They also use coconut oil and vitamin E in their lip balm recipes.
Do Burt’s Bees contain animal products?
Burt’s Bees products do not contain any ingredients that are derived from animal bi-products. However, their lip balm tins have pigments derived from Titanium Dioxide which can be derived from oysters.
Is Burt’s Bees toothpaste good?
Burt’s Bees toothpaste is not recommended for use on children less than the age of 3 years old. They do contain fluoride (a common ingredient in most kinds of toothpaste, but highly poisonous to humans and animals) as well as glycerin which can cause irritation to those that have sensitive teeth or gums.
Do Burt’s Bees have glass particles?
Burt’s Bees has transparent lip balm tubes, which means they may or may not contain small glass particles.
Do Burt’s Bees products contain any carcinogens?
Due to the lack of ingredient information, it is hard to verify whether or not Burt’s Bees products contain carcinogenic ingredients. However, some of their products may contain paraffin which releases benzene (a known carcinogen) upon heating.
Do Burt’s Bees have xylitol?
No, Burt’s Bees does not list xylitol as an ingredient in their products. Xylitol is an artificial sweetener commonly used in lip balms and chapsticks. Although not harmful to humans as a topical applicant, it can be dangerous if accidentally ingested by dogs and pets.
Do Burt’s Bees have phthalates?
Burt’s Bees does not list phthalates as an ingredient in their products. These chemicals are used to make fragrances last long. They are banned in the European Union for their health hazards. Phthalates are known to cause skin irritation. Some types of phthalates can also be absorbed by the skin, resulting in a risk of cancer, endocrine disruption, and reproductive toxicity.
Is Burt’s Bee owned by Clorox?
Yes, Clorox owns Burt’s Bees. Clorox makes products such as cleaning supplies and bleach. The Clorox Company acquired 100 percent of Burt’s Bees in 2007 with an aim to expand its reach in the natural and sustainable business.
Are Burt’s Bees beeswax sheets edible?
Yes, Burt’s Bees beeswax sheets are indeed edible.. However, like many other bee products (such as honey and royal jelly) they may cause an allergic reaction in those who have severe allergies to bee or bee pollen-related products.
How long do Burt’s Bees last?
Many of their lip balm flavors last for up to 6 months. Burt’s Bees does not use preservatives in their product, so they will eventually go bad.
What happens if you eat too much Burt’s Bees?
Burt’s Bees products are safe when used as directed by the manufacturer and eaten in small amounts from time to time.
However, they do contain some chemicals that can be harmful and cause reactions depending on the ingredients they use and your own personal health.
Is Burt’s Bees a clean brand?
Burt’s Bees brand is not known to be a clean or eco-friendly brand, but they do advertise themselves as such. They claim their ingredients are “simple”, and many of them are, however some ingredients used in their products may be harmful to humans and the environment.
Is Burt’s Bees Chemical-Free?
Burt’s Bees does not use chemicals in their products, but they do use chemical coloring agents. These coloring agents are usually synthetic which can be harmful to the environment and humans.
Is Burts Bees really natural?
Burt’s Bees states that their products are made from “simple ingredients”. The ingredients used in their lip balms and other products are not known to be extremely harmful. According to some sources, some of them, such as peppermint oil, may irritate sensitive skin. Overall though, Burt’s Bees is a fairly safe brand to use.
Do Burt’s Bees contain any allergic content?
Burt’s Bees products do not contain any ingredients that are known to cause adverse reactions. However, they are processed in a facility that also handles certain allergens. Additionally, lanolin and flavors in the product have the potential to cause contact dermatitis and other allergies.
Are Burt’s Bees safe for pregnant women?
No, Burt’s Bees is not recommended for use by pregnant or breastfeeding women due to the lack of information about which chemicals and preservatives they may contain.
ALSO READ: Is SkinCeuticals safe during pregnancy?
Do Burt’s Bees have any expiration date?
Yes, since Burt’s Bees does not use preservatives in their lip balm or other products they have an expiration date.
Do Burt’s Bees have SPF (sunscreen)?
Burt’s Bees lip balm does contain SPF 15 and 30 to protect against harmful UVA rays. SPF or Sun Protection Factor is a measure of the protection a sunscreen offers from ultraviolet radiation. Dermatologists recommend an SPF of at least 30 for broad-spectrum coverage.
You may not require an SPF lip balm for regular or indoor use. You will need it when you have to spend long hours under the sun for protection from sunburn, skin damage, skin cancer, and premature aging.
Do Burt’s Bees contain petroleum?
No, Burt’s Bees does not contain petroleum ingredients in their lip balm. The base for the product is beeswax and natural oils.
Petroleum jelly is widely used in lip balms to heal dry skin and provide moisturization. It is approved as a safe ingredient by the FDA. However, it is a refined synthetic and cannot be taken as a natural ingredient.
What precautions must be taken while using Burt’s Bees?
Burt’s Bees products are fairly safe to use if used as directed, however, they do contain chemicals that can cause reactions in some people depending on their personal health.
What can happen if you use too much Burt’s Bees?
Burt’s Bees are safe to use occasionally. However, using more than the recommended amount of product each day or on a regular basis can cause negative effects on your health.
Is Burt’s Bees FDA approved?
No, Burt’s Bees is not FDA approved for the lip balms and other products they sell. They are only FDA-approved as beeswax sheeting.
On a concluding note, Burt’s Bees is a natural lip balm that contains many beneficial ingredients. Though they are not known to be the cleanest or most eco-friendly brand, they do advertise themselves as “simple”. Many of their products contain chemicals that could irritate sensitive skin, but overall Burt’s Bees is safe for human use
Does Burt’s Bees lip balm work?
Burt’s Bees lip balm is made from natural ingredients and without using toxic chemicals like parabens, petrolatum, SLS, and phthalates. It is advertised as a great product to moisturize and nourish your lips. But is it good in the following cases? Let’s find out.
Sensitive lips
Burt’s Bees does not contain irritants. However, essential oils such as peppermint oil could cause stinging and burning if your skin is sensitive. Fragrance chemicals, including limonene, can also be damaging to sensitive lips. Therefore, pick a variant with ingredients that you are not allergic to – the company has an unscented variant too.
Black skin
Burt’s Bees lip balm is indeed good for black skin, or if your lips have turned dark. It does not contain chemicals that cause hyperpigmentation. Natural oils and ingredients will help in keeping your lips pink and healthy.
You can also specifically go for variants with coconut oil, peppermint oil, and honey. Sun Care Tinted lip balm would also be a good choice to prevent your lips from becoming dark due to intense sunlight.
Oily skin
You may have oily skin, but it is unlikely that your lips are oily too as lips do not have oil glands. Meanwhile, the natural oils in Burt’s Bees lip balm cannot make your lips oily – there may be temporary greasiness if you have overapplied the balm. If you prefer to avoid the grease, use Burt’s Bees beeswax lip balm.
Dry skin
For dry lips, Burt’s Bees is the most suited lip balm. It does not contain harmful chemicals that will dry out or dehydrate your lips. If you are already suffering from dry lips, use the following variants that are specially formulated with essential nutrients.
Here are a few Burt’s Bees lip balms without fragrant chemicals that you may pick from:
- Rescue Elderberry Lip Balm
- Ultra Conditioning Lip Balm with Kokum Butter
- Honey Rescue Balm
- Goodness Glows Miracle Balm
Aging skin
Burt’s Bees lip balm is good for aging skin – it has solutions to make your lips look younger. The absence of toxic chemicals itself is a positive quality for your aging lips. Beeswax along with natural oils like coconut oil, jojoba oil, tea tree oil, and peppermint oil are rich in nutrients and antioxidants that heal and nourish your lips. When you have to step out, you could use the Sun Care Tinted lip balm for protection from the sun.
Mature skin
Mature skin is a sign of aging. Your lips could be becoming thin and losing elasticity. Beeswax helps in making your lips look fuller – it contains vitamin A and hydrating agents. So, pick a variant of Burt’s Bees that has beeswax combined with other skin plumping agents like peppermint oil, coconut oil, cinnamon, and cayenne pepper.
Acne-prone skin
Beeswax – the base in Burt’s Bees lip balm does not clog pores. It is non-comedogenic, anti-bacterial, and helps to reduce breakouts. Natural oils also nourish acne-prone skin and provide protection from environmental damage. Meanwhile, be wary of fragrance ingredients – they could be harmful.
Is Burt’s Bees bad?
Burt’s Bees lip balm is known as a safe product that is non-toxic and natural. However, could there be any safety concerns? Here is a guide about the product’s safety in different instances.
Environmental impact
Burt’s Bees is recognized as a zero-waste, eco-friendly organization. It is known for not adding any waste to the landfills since 2010. In addition, the company is Carbon Neutral and Leaping Bunny certified. Its packaging is made of recyclable plastic – further, there is no over-packaging involved. Additionally, the products contain nearly 100 percent naturally-sourced ingredients and are without harmful chemicals.
For eyes
Do not use Burt’s Bees lip balm around your eyes. Beeswax and natural oils, especially peppermint oil, can cause inflammation, redness, and irritation. If the balm accidentally gets into your eyes, wash it off immediately. Keep it out of reach of children.
For lips
Burt’s Bees is nourishing for the lips – it has natural ingredients and is devoid of harsh chemicals. However, there is a bad reputation because of the presence of fragrance ingredients, limonene, and added flavors. There are variants without scent and flavors too – pick them if you want to be careful or if you have sensitive skin.
For skin
Burt’s Bees lip balm is considered safe for lips, where the skin is thinner and more sensitive. Therefore, if your skin is cracked or dull in any area, you can definitely use the lip balm for hydration and glow. Beeswax and natural oils are great nourishment for the skin as well.
For babies
There are no harsh chemicals in Burt’s Bees and it could hence be safe for babies. Beeswax is also gentle and soothing on a baby’s skin. However, natural oils could cause inflammation and irritation. Further, the product is not tested for safe use on babies.
For dogs and pets
While the ingredients in Burt’s Bees are safe for humans, they aren’t so for dogs and pets. Using the product on your pets will lead to ingestion as they are known to lick their lips frequently. While beeswax is not toxic, natural oils can be harmful to pets when ingested. Moreover, the product is not tested for safe use on pets and dogs.
References:
- https://www.burtsbees.com/
- https://www.ewg.org/skindeep/products/926013-Burts_Bees_Beeswax_Bounty_Lip_Balm/
- Does Glossier Skincare Have Fragrance? - October 21, 2022
- Is Aveeno Color-Safe? - October 20, 2022
- Is Acure Color-Safe? - October 20, 2022
