The benefits of propolis for skin are pretty impressive—it’s antibacterial, anti-fungal, antiviral, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory. No wonder, then, that propolis is currently one of the buzziest beauty ingredients on social media. The hype is so strong that the propolis market is expected to reach $881.96 million by 2028.
But what exactly is propolis, where does it come from, and what does it do? Read on to learn more about the benefits of propolis for skin and health.
What is propolis?
If you thought the only healthy thing bees produced was honey, you were wrong. “Propolis is a substance produced by bees—a kind of resin with which they coat their hives to prevent viruses or bacteria from entering,” explains herbalist and naturopath María Luz Neila.
Also known as “bee glue”, propolis is basically what bees use to seal their hives. “In Greek, propolis means ‘defense of the city,’” notes skincare expert and pharmacist Elena Monje. “It is a bee product that bees collect from the secretions and resins that cover the buds of different plant species, such as poplar, chestnut, willow, oak, or birch. Its exact chemical composition depends on the plant source, but in general propolis is composed of resins, balsams, beeswax, essential oils, and pollen.”
Propolis is not honey, but it does share many of the sweet stuff’s unique healing, regenerating, and nourishing properties.. “It was traditionally used in ointments to treat wounds and sores for rapid healing,” she explains.
Though propolis has been used for millennia, its modern function remains the same. When something works, why change it? “It is currently used as a natural antibiotic and can be consumed both orally and topically,” Neila says. “It helps to strengthen the immune system and fight bacteria, viruses, and fungi.”
Propolis is pretty much one of those medicinal, natural ingredients that’s always good to have on hand—kind of like oregano oil or turmeric. It comes in plenty of forms: lozenges (which help reduces sore throat and irritation), moisturizers (to nourish and regenerate), tonics (to soothe and heal). It is also available in its purest form: propolis extract.
The benefits of propolis for skin
Although the benefits of propolis for skin are many and varied, Monje recommends it especially for those who have acne-prone skin thanks to its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. “Propolis also promotes the healing of wounds, cuts, and minor burns, and—thanks to its antioxidant properties—protects the skin against free radical damage to prevent premature aging. It’s truly multi-use.”