Herbal Balms vs. Herbal Salves: What's the Difference?
Herbal Balms vs. Herbal Salves: My Perspective
People often ask me:
“What’s the difference between a balm and a salve?”
It really comes down to texture, purpose, and how your skin needs to be cared for.
There are some key differences but both are built on potent plant extracts that are purposefully chosen to nourish and repair.
Read on to explore the wonderful world of herbal balms & salves ⸙
What Balms and Salves Have in Common
Both herbal balms and salves are oil-based topical products that deliver the healing power of plants directly to your skin.
At Lazuli Remedies this involves growing, harvesting and sourcing the best plants, then infusing through multiple steps to extract the full spectrum of beneficial constituents. I then add local natural beeswax and organic, unrefined plant butters to give the product structure and staying power.
They both:
- Soothe and protect irritated or dry skin
- Lock in moisture naturally
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Contain zero synthetic chemicals or preservatives
- Smell softly of herbs, flowers - truly of the earth
What Is a Herbal Salve?
A salve is softer, oilier, and designed to soothe, repair, and nourish damaged or irritated skin.
Salves are wonderful for things like eczema, cracked hands, minor wounds, and dry patches. For a deep treatment, you can smooth a thick layer onto the skin, and wrap with a muslin cloth. Hold it in position to allow the salve to fully sink in and do the work.
Blooms & Roots Salve for Eczema
A multi-purpose salve for topical skin problems such as eczema, psoriasis, sun damage and dry, cracked skin. Packed with skin-specific herbs to aid the sensitive and distressed. Can be used as a nourishing winter hand cream, or as an all-over moisturiser. It reduces redness and inflammation, soothes irritation and supports the skin in times of need.
Gardener’s Salve for Deep Repair & Wound Healing
Made for hardworking hands and tired skin, this salve is a perfect addition to the herbal first aid kit. Use topically for sprains, soft tissue damage, grazes, joint pain, fractures, bug bites. Anti inflammatory, healing and formulated for deep repair. Perfect for gardeners, makers, or anyone whose skin takes a beating.
What Is a Herbal Balm?
A balm is thicker, richer, and more protective than a salve. It forms a gentle barrier on the skin that locks in moisture while shielding against the elements (wind, cold, and dryness).
Balms are my go-to for daily moisture, cleansing, and lip protection.
Flower Beauty Balm
The best-selling Flower Balm works beautifully as a daily moisturiser, a deeply hydrating night balm, and even a balm cleanser to melt away makeup and impurities.
It’s rich yet breathable, leaving your skin soft, balanced, and naturally glowing.
Propolis Protect Lip Balm
Made with locally-sourced propolis, this lip balm protects and nourishes dry or chapped lips. It’s rich in local beeswax, hydrating oils, propolis & benzoin resin — known for their antibacterial, antimicrobial and healing properties. It can also be used to heal fresh tattoos and nourish any dry patches of skin.
Perfect for daily use, especially in cold or windy weather. It has a natural sweet scent of honey and cacao - lovely and comforting on a chilly day.
Shop Propolis Protect Lip Balm
Balms vs. Salves: A Quick Comparison
| Feature | Herbal Salve | Herbal Balm |
|---|---|---|
| Texture | Soft and creamy | Firm and rich |
| Solid Content | Lower | Higher |
| Purpose | Healing and soothing | Moisturizing and protecting |
| Absorption | Quick | Slow and long-lasting |
| Best For | Eczema, irritation, cracked skin | Daily skincare, cleansing, lips |
How I Like to Use Them Together
I often layer them for best results:
- Start with a salve (like Blooms & Roots or Gardener’s) to heal and soften.
- Follow with a balm (like Flower Balm) to lock in nourishment and protect your skin all day.
This simple ritual is especially lovely in the colder months or for anyone with dry, sensitive skin.
In Closing
Each product I create at Lazuli Remedies is handmade with patience and intention — from the first herbal infusion to the final label. I typically make topical products without essential oils, instead focusing on whole-plant infusions.
Pure plant extractions - suitable for the most sensitive of folk.
Whether your skin needs healing, comfort, or daily nourishment, balms and salves are a great option.
Shop the Collection
Explore my handcrafted herbal products below — all slow-made in small batches with a deep respect for the land and our skin.
Ointments for Problem Skin
Targeted healing for eczema, dryness, irritation and inflammation.
Blooms & Roots Salve for Dry Skin
A soothing herbal blend to comfort and restore sensitive and distressed skin.
Gardener’s Salve for Deep Repair & Wound Healing
Rich and reparative — perfect for dry, cracked, or overworked hands.
Face & Lips Collection
Daily nourishment and gentle protection for every skin type.
Flower Balm – Daily Moisturiser
A multipurpose botanical balm for glowing, balanced skin.
Propolis Protect Lip Balm
A natural shield for dry or chapped lips, enriched with propolis, benzoin resin and cacao butter.
Thank You for Supporting Handmade
I pour my heart into every product I make — blending traditional herbal knowledge, modern science and care into each formula. It is truly an honour to partner with plants in this way.
Thank you for supporting a one-woman herbal brand that values slow, sustainable, and plant-led skincare.
With love,
Celeste - Lazuli Remedies