Are There Any Benefits of Propolis for Skin?

Propolis has been gaining a lot of popularity recently because of the amazing benefits it provides for your skin. Propolis is a sticky substance that bees use to seal and protect their bee hives. It contains so many compounds that contribute to its potential benefits for your skin. Read on to learn what propolis is, propolis benefits for skin, as well as some skincare products that contain propolis.

What is propolis?

Propolis is a resinous, sticky substance that bees create by mixing their discharges with beeswax and sap from trees. It is also known as bee glue. Bees use it to seal gaps in the hive and to keep out intruders. This ingredient has become very popular thanks to the Korean beauty craze.

The substances that make propolis can be complex. Researchers have identified more than 500 different compounds in propolis. The exact composition often depends on the location of the hive, bee species, and environmental conditions.

Most of these propolis compounds are types of polyphenols, such as flavonoids. Polyphenols are naturally occurring antioxidants that may help protect you against various diseases. Additionally, propolis contains other healing compounds, including vitamins A, C, and E, minerals, and amino acids.

Propolis benefits for skin

Propolis has been shown to have a few potential benefits for the skin:

1. Has healing properties

Propolis is simply bee glue, which protects beehives from bacteria and viruses. It has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties that may make it effective at reducing pain and helping wounds heal. Propolis is also high in phenolics, which act as antioxidants and have been known to have potential benefits in minor infections to chronic inflammation.

2. Fights acne

Propolis may help fight acne. This is because of its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, which are known to combat the causes of acne. The natural healing properties of propolis, together with its antioxidant agents, work to help heal and also prevent more breakouts. This makes it a good choice for individuals with sensitive or acne-prone skin looking for fast acne relief without any harsh chemicals.

3. Anti-aging properties

The free radicals that are created from environmental pollution damage the skin and weaken the skin structure, which causes early signs of aging, such as wrinkles and fine lines. Propolis is rich in antioxidants and flavonoids that protect the skin from free radicals and may help fight the effects of aging skin.

4. Hydrates the skin

Propolis skincare is very popular for offering moisturizing properties that may increase moisture levels in dry skin. The polyphenol antioxidant properties found in propolis can help nourish the skin while also offering lasting hydration. Plus, the naturally occurring fatty acids in propolis may help soothe even the most dehydrated skin, which may leave it feeling healthy and restored.

5. Helps reduce redness

There are various factors that are responsible for skin inflammation, whether it's a reaction to a skincare product, weather, or skin conditions like eczema or psoriasis. Redness usually occurs as a sign of inflammation. Using propolis creams may help because they contain anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce inflammation.

Skincare products with propolis

In modern skincare, propolis is usually used in many skincare products. You can find propolis in all kinds of product skincare formulations, from propolis creams to serums, lotions, masks, moisturizers, and everything in between.

How to use propolis for the skin

When it comes to using propolis for skin, you can either apply propolis extract or a skin product that has propolis as an ingredient. Propolis extract is usually very mild, so you can apply it directly.

If you’re looking for a safer and more controlled method of using propolis, you can use skincare products containing propolis. Remember that it's always a great idea to do a patch test before you try any new product or ingredient.

If you have really sensitive skin or any underlying skin conditions or allergies, make sure you talk to your dermatologist before you use propolis in your skincare routine. They can advise the best way to go about it.

Side effects and risks of propolis

The biggest possible side effect of this natural ingredient is a propolis allergy. There's a potential for allergic reactions such as irritation and swelling, especially if you have a lot of allergies or if you are allergic to bees and bee venom.

DIY propolis skincare recipes

There are several DIYs for propolis that you can make at home. Below are some easy recipes:

Propolis moisturizer

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons propolis extract
  
• 1/4 cup petroleum Jelly

Instructions

1. Heat the petroleum jelly in a double boiler over low to medium heat. Then, slowly add in the propolis extract.
2. Stir the mixture until it's well combined.
3. Remove from the mixture heat and stir continuously until it is solidified.

Propolis face mask

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon bentonite clay
• 1 teaspoon honey
• 1/2 teaspoon propolis extract
• Water

Instructions:

1. Start off with bentonite clay and honey in a bowl.
2. Mix well, then add the propolis extract and keep mixing.
3. Slowly add water until you get your desired consistency.
4. Apply the paste on your face for about 15 minutes, then rinse with warm water.
5. Finish by moisturizing it with a rich propolis cream.

Bees not only produce delicious honey but also propolis, which could be the secret to taking your skincare to the next level. Propolis has natural antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. It's popular for helping reduce acne, moisturizing without clogging the pores, reducing redness, and reducing wrinkles and fine lines. Some potential side effects of propolis include allergic reactions such as irritation and swelling. Therefore, it's important to talk to your dermatologist before you incorporate propolis into your skincare routine.