By Erica Watson 

If there’s one thing that motherhood has taught me it’s that an all-purpose balm is one of the handiest things you can have in your skincare arsenal. From cuts and scrapes to insect bites, chapped skin, rough patches and nappy rash, a good natural balm works a treat on them all. Best of all, they’re not just great for kids, they can double-down for you too. Whether it’s a lip balm, highlighter, cuticle cream or eyebrow shaper, there’s  nothing these little wonders can’t do. But don’t just take our word for it, try out some of our favourites for yourself. 

Clemence Organics, Baby + Mum balm 

This great multipurpose balm tackles everything from nappy rash to dermatitis and is a knight in shining armour for mums in those early days of breastfeeding. Blended with a jojoba, shea butter and coconut oil, it’s nourishing, hydrating, and smells gorgeous too. Celemencer Organics has been formulated by a naturopath so you know the combination of ingredients is a winner. 

Biode, Skin Salve-Ation 

A recent discovery, this hard-working balm is good for all the regular ailments like dry patches and rough skin, but believe it or not it’s also become part of my beauty routine. A swipe across the cheeks after some tinted moisturiser gives a great glow, especially on the days you just don’t want to go all out with makeup. I’ve even used this on a dry winter legs by adding a few drops of water to make an emulsion. Hello moisturisation! Best of all it comes in completely plastic free and home compostable packaging. 

Wotnot, Nappy Rash Cream and Baby Balm 

It seems like a  lifetime ago now but in the early days of motherhood, Wotnot was never too far away. The baby balm is essentially formulated for nappy rash, but it’s also soothing on skin that needs some extra moisturising. Organic paw paw and tea tree form the basis of this skin saviour that can also be used on rosacea and eczema. It also contains flaxseed oil which is high in omega-3 and 6. The baby lotion is also a winner – and not just for babies, but dry mum legs too. 

The Great State 

From removing red lipstick to nourishing a wind burnt face and scraped knees, I’ve put this balm through just about every stress test imaginable. It truly works a treat on anything you can throw at it and it’s also just lovely to dab on your lips each morning and head out the door. It blends beeswax with oils like grapeseed, jojoba, avocado, virgin coconut and cherry seed, so it’s ultra-hydrating and long-lasting without feeling too sticky. 

Dr Bronner’s organic magic balm 

You might know Dr Bronner’s for its castile soaps but it also does a great organic multipurpose balm too. Like the others on our list, it’s good for the whole family, and contains the usuals like coconut, avocado and jojoba oils but with the added benefit of hemp oil. It’s particularly good for dry skin like heels and elbows, and because it’s fragrance free it’s a good option for anyone prone to skin sensitivities.

Bush Balm for Baby

Run by social enterprise, Purple House – an Indigenous Indigenous-owned and operated health service based in Alice Springs – Bush Balm for Baby steps it up a notch from other balms. Crafted from wild-harvested medicinal plants, its soothing formula is based on the ancient wisdom and knowledge that Indigenous Australians have used to treat all kinds of ailments and illnesses for thousands of years. Its active ingredient, Arrethe is a winner on nappy rash, but also great  for itchy dry skin, and can also be used on eczema, psoriasis and dermatitis.