Propolis
A resinous substance produced by honeybees from tree buds, used to seal and protect the hive. Propolis contains over 300 bioactive compounds including flavonoids, phenolic acids, and caffeic acid phenethyl ester (CAPE). In skincare, it provides potent anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and wound-healing effects. Popular in Korean skincare for acne-prone and sensitive skin.
Concentration & Usage
Concentrations vary widely (10-80% extract). Products like COSRX Propolis line use high concentrations. Apply after cleansing. Can be used morning and night. Patch test first — bee product allergies are possible.
Application
Topical (serum, essence, ampoule, cream). Available in many K-beauty products.
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99%+ purity · third-party lab tested
Mechanism of Action
CAPE (caffeic acid phenethyl ester) inhibits NF-kappa B nuclear translocation by preventing I-kappa B alpha degradation and blocking p65/p50 nuclear import — suppresses TNF-alpha, IL-1beta, IL-6, COX-2 transcription. Flavonoids (chrysin, pinocembrin, galangin) provide antioxidant protection through free radical scavenging and metal chelation. Bacteriostatic and bactericidal against Cutibacterium acnes and Staphylococcus aureus via cell wall disruption and protein synthesis inhibition. Promotes wound healing: stimulates fibroblast collagen I/III synthesis, keratinocyte migration (integrins, matrix metalloproteinases), angiogenesis. Inhibits hyaluronidase, preserving skin hyaluronic acid. Effective for acne (reduces inflammation, bacterial load) and sensitive skin (calming barrier disruption).
Regulatory Status
Cosmetic ingredient. Available OTC worldwide. Used in traditional medicine in many cultures.
Risks & Safety
Common
Sticky texture.
Serious
Allergic reaction in people with bee/honey allergies (important to patch test).
Rare
Contact dermatitis.
Compare Propolis With
Research Papers
10Published: May 22, 2023
AI Summary
The results showed that interest in the therapeutic efficacy of propolis has increased over the years. Propolis appears to be an effective therapeutic alternative for the treatment of skin ulcers.
Published: September 13, 2022
AI Summary
The potential of propolis as an alternative healing treatment for skin wounds such as diabetic, venous, and surgical wounds, as well as wounds caused by burns, etc., is mainly due to its evidenced properties such as antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and angiogenesis promoter effects.
Published: May 15, 2023
AI Summary
Nanoparticle formulations development for anti-aging treatment is increasing due to their multifunctional properties. However, a review of these strategies is required to discuss their efficacy/safety and establish the needs for further research.
Published: February 5, 2017
AI Summary
In one study on genital diseases, EUP showed significant differences in genital herpes outcome measures compared to placebo. Our results on the effectiveness of EUP for treating oral, skin, and genital diseases are not conclusive because of the low methodological qualities and small sample sizes.
Published: January 27, 2020
AI Summary
Nowadays, studies indicate that natural bee products can be used for skin treatment and care. Beeswax is used for production of cosmetics and ointments in pharmacy.
Published: February 11, 2024
AI Summary
Further research is needed to fully understand propolis' mechanisms, determine optimal formulations, and establish suitable clinical dosages. Nevertheless, propolis' natural origin and demonstrated benefits make it a compelling avenue for burn care exploration, potentially complementing existing therapies and improving burn management outcomes.
Published: December 9, 2020
AI Summary
More importantly, propolis treatment reduced UV-induced MMP-1 expression and blocked collagen degradation in human skin tissues, suggesting that the anti-skin-aging activity of propolis can be recapitulated in clinically relevant conditions.
Published: December 16, 2021
AI Summary
LLNA showed that 1.70% BGP primed skin sensitization and is a "moderate sensitizer". Our results indicate scientific proof of the validity of arbitrary concentrations (1-2%), which have been used empirically, and provide the first scientific information on the safe use of BGP.
Published: November 14, 2022
AI Summary
According to physical examinations only the ointment formulations prepared with ethanolic propolis extracts at two different concentrations were found as successful. Results showed that prepared propolis ointment has a creamy yellow colour with an acceptable odour, homogeny and a good spreadability texture and has a good stability at 40oC and 25...
Published: April 23, 2015
AI Summary
Repeated physical trauma is a frequent cause of skin conditions in musicians (callosities, fiddler's neck syndrome…). The key preventive measures are early management of the skin disease, specific tests and avoidance of the causative allergens, together with better adjustment of playing techniques to reduce trauma.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Propolis used for?
A resinous substance produced by honeybees from tree buds, used to seal and protect the hive. Propolis contains over 300 bioactive compounds including flavonoids, phenolic acids, and caffeic acid phenethyl ester (CAPE). In skincare, it provides potent anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and wound-healing effects. Popular in Korean skincare for acne-prone and sensitive skin.
What are the side effects of Propolis?
Common: Sticky texture. Serious: Allergic reaction in people with bee/honey allergies (important to patch test). Rare: Contact dermatitis.
How is Propolis administered?
Propolis is administered via topical (serum, essence, ampoule, cream). available in many k-beauty products..
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