While lip balms in various forms have existed for centuries, the first formally documented invention of lip balm as we know it is attributed to Charles Brown Fleet in the 1880s. He was a physician, and his creation was likely a significant step in formalizing the product.
The Early History of Lip Balm
The origins of lip balm are somewhat murky, with anecdotal evidence suggesting remedies using substances like earwax predating Fleet's invention. These were likely home remedies passed down through generations, lacking the standardization and commercial production of modern lip balms. However, Fleet's work marks a pivotal moment:
- Formalization: He brought a level of formal research and development to the creation and distribution of lip balm.
- Commercialization: His invention facilitated the transition from a home remedy to a commercial product available to a wider public.
- Standardization: His formula likely set a precedent for future lip balm formulations.
It's important to note that the history of lip protection likely stretches back far beyond the 1880s, with various cultures using natural substances for the same purpose. Fleet's contribution, however, represents a significant step in the formal invention and development of the lip balm. It’s the difference between a folk remedy and a commercially available product.
The quote provided, "It is one of those sorts of cures, which are very likely to be laughed at; but I know of its having produced very beneficial results," highlights the initial skepticism surrounding Fleet's invention, even though its effectiveness was noted.
