For centuries, humans have harnessed the benefits of bee products in various aspects of life, from candle making to cooking, medicine, and especially cosmetics. As the world recently celebrated World Honeybee Day, it’s a good time to learn about the various bee products used as ingredients in the beauty and wellness industry. Read along as Vidhi Arya from Professional Beauty India highlights these products and their benefits.
The beauty industry has been steadfast in recognising the potent properties of various bee products like honey, bee pollen, and many more. These have been successfully integrated into numerous skincare and makeup lines, for the bountiful benefits they hold. As each bee-derived substance is packed with active ingredients, they naturally and effectively make the skin better and also address various skin concerns. Here are six bee products actively used in the beauty and wellness industry.
Honey
Key Benefits: Treats acne | Reduces inflammation | Heals sun damage
It is more than just a sweet treat. It’s a powerhouse ingredient in skincare. This carbohydrate-rich substance has over 181 components, including glucose, fructose, enzymes, and flavonoids, giving it impressive medicinal properties. Honey is a natural antibacterial agent, that helps to prevent and treat acne by targeting bacteria that clog pores. Its potent antioxidants also combat free radicals, reduce inflammation, and protect the skin from sun damage. Hence, it is often a key ingredient in creams, bath products, toners, and makeup.
Propolis
Key Benefits: Anti-ageing| Collagen production| Antibacterial & antifungal
This bee glue is another treasure from the hive. Bees collect this resin-like substance from tree buds, shrubs, and plants, resulting in a compound with over 300 active elements. Propolis is extremely rich in acids, antioxidants, enzymes, and vitamins. It is especially valued for its skin benefits; Vitamin E helps reduce wrinkles and fights premature ageing. Vitamin C promotes collagen production, enhancing skin elasticity and hydration. In cosmetics, propolis serves as an emulsifier in lipsticks. Additionally, its used in skin care for its antibacterial and antifungal properties.
Bee pollen and bee bread
Key Benefits: Tissue regeneration| Antioxidant & antimicrobial
These are the bees’ winter sustenance, with bee bread being fermented bee pollen. Both ingredients are packed with antioxidants and antimicrobial properties, making them valuable in creams, shampoos, and conditioners. They are also rich in protein content and help with tissue regeneration. Hence, it is often used in products for sensitive skin due to its ability to strengthen capillaries. It’s also considered a superfood, adding another layer to its appeal.
Beeswax
Key Benefits: Locks in moisture| Soothes skin | Anti-inflammatory
It is the material bees use to build their hives. Though it has less nutritional value than other bee products, it has been a significant player throughout history. Beeswax is now primarily found in the cosmetic industry, and it is used in everything from candles to bow-making. It is a key ingredient in lip balms, glosses, moisturizers, and hair products, valued for its anti-inflammatory properties and exceptional ability to soothe and lock in moisture.
Bee venom
Key Benefits: Stimulates collagen | Elastin production | Reduces inflammation
Also known as apitoxin, it is a lesser-known but powerful ingredient in specialist creams and lotions. When applied to the skin, it stimulates collagen and elastin production, reducing inflammation in acne and even aiding in cancer treatment.
Royal jelly
Key Benefits: Toning | Moisturising | Anti-ageing
This substance that turns larvae into queen bees, is another skincare marvel. With its antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, toning, moisturising, and anti-ageing properties, royal jelly is used in specialised balms, creams, and lotions to treat problem skin, control oil production, and boost collagen levels.
