Quick Fix for Broken Lipstick: Melt & Mold Method

Updated at: 05/03/2025

We've all been there: your favorite lipstick, the perfect shade you meticulously chose, snaps in two, leaving you with a broken heart (and a broken lipstick). The immediate reaction might be to toss it in the trash, but don't despair! Before you succumb to the sadness of a lost beauty essential, know that there's a surprisingly simple and effective way to revive your beloved lip color. This method, known as the melt and mold technique, is a quick and easy fix that breathes new life into your broken lipstick, saving you money and heartache.

This surprisingly easy DIY project requires minimal materials and only takes a few minutes. Forget expensive replacements or settling for a subpar substitute; this guide will walk you through the step-by-step process of melting and remolding your broken lipstick, ensuring you can continue to enjoy your perfect shade without skipping a beat. Ready to get started? Let's dive into the details!

Preparation and Safety Guidelines

Tools Needed
  • Broken lipstick
  • Candle or lighter (adult supervision required)
  • Tissue paper
  • Q-tip or lipstick brush
  • Refrigerator
Safety Guidelines
  • Always use a clean, sanitized container and tools to avoid contaminating your lipstick. Bacteria can easily grow in melted lipstick.
  • Avoid overheating the lipstick. Excessive heat can damage the formula, changing its texture and color. Use low heat and monitor carefully.
  • If the lipstick contains any glitter or shimmer, be extra cautious during melting and pouring to prevent uneven distribution or settling.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Prepare the Workspace

    • Prepare your workspace. Place a tissue paper down to avoid making a mess.
    Prepare your workspace. Place a tissue paper down to avoid making a mess.
    Prepare the Workspace

  2. Remove Lipstick Pieces

    • Carefully remove the broken lipstick pieces from the tube.
    Carefully remove the broken lipstick pieces from the tube.
    Remove Lipstick Pieces

  3. Melt the Lipstick

    • Use a candle or lighter (under adult supervision if you're a child) to gently melt the broken lipstick pieces. Be cautious not to melt the plastic tube.
    • Melt just enough to allow the pieces to combine; don't overheat.
    Melt just enough to allow the pieces to combine; don't overheat.
    Melt the Lipstick

  4. Reform the Lipstick

    • Firmly press the melted lipstick back into the tube.
    Firmly press the melted lipstick back into the tube.
    Reform the Lipstick

  5. Clean Up Excess

    • Use a Q-tip or lipstick brush to clean up any excess lipstick around the edges.
    Use a Q-tip or lipstick brush to clean up any excess lipstick around the edges.
    Clean Up Excess

  6. Refrigerate and Solidify

    • Refrigerate the lipstick for approximately 30 minutes to allow it to solidify.
    Refrigerate the lipstick for approximately 30 minutes to allow it to solidify.
    Refrigerate and Solidify

Read more: DIY: Repairing Broken Lipstick or Lip Balm - The Melting Method

Tips

  • Work quickly and efficiently to avoid the lipstick from cooling too quickly.
  • If you are a child, ensure adult supervision is present when using a candle or lighter.
  • A lipstick brush can be a more precise tool for cleaning up the edges compared to a Q-tip.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Using too much heat

Reason: Overheating the lipstick can cause it to separate, become grainy, or lose its pigmentation.
Solution: Use a low heat setting and frequently check the lipstick's consistency.

2. Not properly preparing the mold

Reason: A dirty or wet mold can lead to air bubbles and an uneven finish in the reformed lipstick.
Solution: Clean and completely dry the mold before pouring in the melted lipstick.

3. Pouring the lipstick while it's too hot

Reason: Extremely hot lipstick can cause air bubbles or damage the mold.
Solution: Allow the melted lipstick to cool slightly before transferring it to the mold.

FAQs

What materials do I need for the melt and mold method?
You'll need your broken lipstick, a clean, heat-safe container (like a small glass bowl or ramekin), a toothpick or similar tool for mixing, and a new container to remold your lipstick into (an empty lipstick tube works perfectly, or even a small jar).
Can I use any type of heat to melt the lipstick?
It's best to use a double boiler or a microwave on low power in short bursts. Direct heat from a stovetop or high microwave power could overheat and damage the lipstick.
What if my remoulded lipstick is too soft or too hard?
If it's too soft, let it cool and solidify completely in the refrigerator for a while. If it's too hard, you might have added too much heat or used too small of a container, resulting in rapid cooling.
Accidents happen, even to our most cherished lipsticks. If you've suffered a broken bullet – especially one of your favorites, perhaps from that iconic Pillow Talk collection – don't despair! This quick fix will have your lipstick looking good as new in minutes. For those who love the luxurious feel of Charlotte Tilbury Pillow Talk products and want to keep them pristine, this method is a lifesaver. If you're looking to expand your Pillow Talk collection, check out our guide on the best products from that range to find your next perfect shade.