5 minute read
What Is Propolis and What Does It Do for Your Skin?
Propolis is a resin-like substance made by honeybees. Bees collect sticky plant resins from tree buds and bark, then mix them with wax and enzymes to produce propolis.
Inside the hive, propolis acts as a protective material. Bees use it to seal cracks, reinforce the hive structure and help protect the colony from microbes. Because of these protective properties, propolis has attracted attention as a natural ingredient in skincare.
Scientific studies show that propolis contains bioactive compounds such as flavonoids and phenolic acids. These compounds are associated with antioxidant, antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory activity, which explains why propolis appears in many skincare products.
Why Do Bees Make Propolis?
Honeybees use propolis as a type of natural building and defence material.
Worker bees collect resins from sources such as poplar, birch and conifer trees. After bringing the resin back to the hive, they mix it with beeswax and enzymes to produce propolis.
Bees use propolis to:
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seal small gaps in the hive
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strengthen the hive structure
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coat interior surfaces
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help limit microbial growth inside the colony
Because propolis helps maintain a cleaner hive environment, scientists sometimes describe it as contributing to the colony’s “social immunity.”
Is Propolis Good for Skin?
Research suggests propolis may benefit the skin in several ways.
Antimicrobial properties
Laboratory studies have shown that propolis has activity against certain bacteria and fungi. This antimicrobial activity is one reason propolis is used in skincare products aimed at supporting blemish-prone skin.
Anti-inflammatory effects
Inflammation contributes to many skin concerns including redness and irritation. Several studies have found that compounds in propolis can reduce inflammatory responses in skin cells. Because of this, propolis is often included in products designed to calm sensitive or irritated skin.
Antioxidant activity
Propolis contains polyphenols such as flavonoids and phenolic acids. These compounds act as antioxidants, helping neutralise free radicals that contribute to oxidative stress in the skin.
Antioxidants are widely used in skincare to support skin exposed to environmental stressors such as pollution and UV radiation.
Potential support for skin repair
Research into wound care has investigated propolis for its potential role in supporting skin healing. Some studies have reported improved healing in certain types of wounds and ulcers when propolis preparations were used.
While cosmetic products cannot claim to treat wounds, this research supports the idea that propolis may help support the skin barrier.
What Skin Types May Benefit from Propolis?
Because propolis has both soothing and protective properties, it is commonly used in products formulated for:
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blemish-prone skin
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sensitive or reactive skin
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dry or damaged skin barriers
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skin exposed to environmental stress
Many people find that propolis works well in formulations designed to support balanced skin rather than aggressively strip oils.
Are There Any Risks?
Although propolis is generally well tolerated, it can cause allergic reactions in some people.
Propolis is a recognised contact allergen, particularly for individuals who are sensitive to bee products or certain plant resins. Dermatology organisations recommend patch testing new skincare products containing propolis before regular use.
Why Propolis Is Used in Skincare
Propolis is used in skincare because it contains a complex mixture of biologically active compounds that show antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
Its natural origin and protective role in the hive have made it an appealing ingredient for skincare products designed to support skin health.
Sources
Bankova V. et al. Standard methods for Apis mellifera propolis research.
Anjum S. et al. Composition and functional properties of propolis.
Oryan A. et al. Propolis and its potential role in wound healing.
Velho P. et al. Use of propolis in skin wound healing.
DermNet NZ. Contact allergy to propolis.
