When looking for a natural solution for most skin concerns, bee propolis is something you may want to try. You may have known about the benefits of royal jelly and manuka honey on the skin, but propolis offers another whole range of benefits. Also referred to as bee glue, propolis has been used by Ancient Romans, Greeks, Egyptians, and Persians for its health benefits. This versatile ingredient is known for soothing, healing, and protecting the skin. In this article, we introduce what bee propolis is and its benefits to persistent skin issues.
What is Propolis?
Most people know that bees make honey and wax, but that’s not the only thing they make. Propolis is a mixture that bees make to protect their hives. When the bees mix sap from trees with the beeswax and their own discharge, they create sticky green-brownish products that is called bee glue or propolis. They use this mixture to fill gaps in the walls of the hives, keeping the cold away and mummifying intruders. This characteristic is what makes the substance to be nicknamed bee glue.
The process of producing propolis is as complicated as the substance itself. Bees collect a resinous substance from the buds of green plants, shrubs, and trees. They then mix them with beeswax and a special enzyme to make a substance that is known as propolis. Depending on the area where the bees live and the plants surrounding them, the composition of propolis can differ greatly.
Why You Should Use Propolis
Propolis can be beneficial to your skin in several ways. The anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory properties of this substance make it a popular treatment for minor skin conditions and wounds. Studies have also indicated that using propolis cream can be an effective treatment for burns. When used efficiently, propolis cream can be more effective than treatment like silver sulfadiazine.
Propolis has therapeutic potential for the treatment of recurrent herpes simplex virus type 2. This makes it a good choice in the treatment of oral herpes (herpes labialis). When you use topical ointments containing propolis, it can heal outbreaks quickly. Here is how propolis is good for your skin:
- Rich in minerals, vitamins, and other beneficial compounds
- Anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antimicrobial properties
- Supports the natural barrier function of the skin, which protects against environmental irritants and maintains healthy skin
- Reduces the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines, improving the overall appearance and health of the skin
- Reducing the severity of eczema (atopic dermatitis) without significant side effects
- Reduces inflammation and promotes wound healing for people with mild to moderate forms of acne
- Combined properties of propolis can help keep your skin blemish-free
- Propolis is gentle on sensitive skin and can help reduce redness associated with acne
These therapeutic applications make propolis a versatile and effective skin treatment option. Commercial, propolis is available in products such as shampoos, creams, toothpastes, lipsticks, and mouthwashes. If you are wondering whether bee propolis is good for your skin, think about its long history of use and proven efficacy. Although used as a valuable natural remedy for several health concerns, products with this substance are a great addition to the skincare routine.
What are the Main Propolis Benefits?
Propolis benefits the skin making it a valuable ingredient in skincare products. An extract composition of this complex mixture of compounds often varies depending on factors like geographic origin, the season of collection, and plant-specific properties. However, propolis benefits have remained consistent throughout the ages, including antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, antiviral, antifungal, and antioxidant properties.
These properties are what make proposing a useful ingredient in various cosmetic and pharmaceutical applications. From wound-healing products to anti-aging creams and oral hygiene products, propolis is a versatile product. By reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, it can be used to reduce signs of aging. On the other hand, its antioxidant properties help protect the skin from damage often caused by free radicals, which can contribute to skin problems and aging.
How to Use Propolis
Propolis can be used in many forms because of its rich chemical composition. The most common forms include creams, supplements, and serums for various uses. However, unprocessed raw bee propolis cannot be used in that state. It must be cleaned with a solvent that extracts the beneficial components.
Generally, propolis is safe to use and can be well tolerated. However, oral ingestion requires caution with a dosage of 70 mg per day being deemed safe. Therefore, you should always consult a healthcare professional for recommendations before taking propolis supplements. The most common adverse effect is hypersensitivity, especially in topic application. This may cause allergic reactions, irritation, swelling, and hives. Otherwise, propolis is safe and can be by almost anyone.
Propolis in Skincare that Works for You
Nothing beats natural solutions when it comes to addressing skin concerns. Propolis offers a natural ingredient to address these concerns, producing great results within a short time. With a long history of use for its health benefits, you can trust propolis in improving the health of your skin. You can use products with this ingredient if you are looking to heal mild wounds on your skin. It also works well for people who want to treat scarring, texture, and pigmentation associated with acne.
A common question people often ask is how often should they use propolis for effective results. The application of propolis usually depends on the product and what you are using it for. If you have no allergic reaction, then it is safe to use the product daily. However, for those whose skin reacts to propolis or if it triggers something in them, it would be a good idea to avoid it in the future. In terms of combining with other products, propolis can be paired with your other products without affecting its effectiveness.
Where to Buy Propolis-Rich Products
Finding the right skincare products with propolis can improve the health of your skin significantly. While you may not know where to start, there are many products with this ingredient specially formulated for various uses. Shop Palace Beauty stocks some of the best propolis products to meet the needs of various users. Be sure to check out our online store for these products and more information on how to integrate propolis into your life.
Propolis FAQs
- What does bee propolis do to my skin and face?
The main effects of propolis on your skin are antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory. Applying products with propolis on your face can speed up the wound healing process.
- Does propolis have side effects?
Propolis usually works well for most people without any side effects. However, some people may experience allergic reactions such as irritation, swelling, and hives.
- Who can benefit the most from applying propolis?
People without any allergic reaction to the ingredient can benefit the most from propolis. You can use it to heal mild wounds and treat skin concerns such as scarring and pigmentation.