What Is Propolis?

Propolis is a resinous material that bees collect from tree buds and plant sap and mix with wax and saliva. They use it to seal and protect their hive. In cosmetics, propolis is used as an extract.

It contains flavonoids and phenolic acids, among others, which can have antioxidant and soothing effects. For the skin, propolis is therefore mainly used in products for glow, soothing and the care of blemish-prone skin.

And What Does Honey Do in Skincare?

Honey is a humectant. It binds moisture in the skin and makes it supple. That's why you find it in masks, creams and especially often in lip care.

Important to know: pure honey from the kitchen is no substitute for formulated skincare. Products are tuned for tolerability, stability and shelf life.

What Can Propolis and Honey Do for the Skin?

Glow and suppleness: The combination nourishes the skin and often makes it look visibly fresher and softer.

Soothing: Propolis is used for irritated, red skin because it can have a calming effect.

Blemish-prone skin: Propolis has antibacterial properties and is therefore found in products for skin prone to breakouts. An honest assessment: it's supportive care, not an acne treatment.

Important: Allergies and Tolerability

Propolis can trigger allergies in some people. Anyone who reacts allergically to bee products, poplar resin or balsam of Peru should be especially careful or avoid it.

With a new product, always do a test on a small area first, for example on the inside of the forearm or behind the ear. Wait 24 hours. If there's redness, itching or burning, don't use it.

And one more note: propolis and honey are animal products and therefore not vegan.

How to Add Propolis to Your Routine

A propolis serum or ampoule goes on after the toner and before the moisturiser. Morning and evening is possible if your skin tolerates it well.

Propolis combines well with niacinamide, hyaluronic acid and soothing ingredients. How to spread actives sensibly is covered in the article Combining actives. You'll also find a short explanation of the ingredient in the Lexikon.

You apply the lip mask in the evening as the last step. It can work overnight.

The Most Common Mistakes with Propolis and Honey

First: skipping the tolerability test. Especially with animal-derived ingredients it's worth it.

Second: smearing kitchen honey on your face. Formulated products are more tolerable and more hygienic.

Third: expecting miracles. Propolis is a care ingredient, not a treatment for skin conditions.

Frequently Asked Questions About Propolis and Honey in Skincare

Is propolis suitable for sensitive skin?

Often yes, because it can be soothing. Because of the allergy potential, a test on a small area is still important.

Is propolis vegan?

No. Propolis and honey come from bees and are of animal origin.

Can I use propolis with a bee allergy?

With a known allergy to bee products, better not. If in doubt, talk to your doctor.

Does propolis help with spots?

It can serve as supportive care for blemish-prone skin. With severe acne it doesn't replace medical treatment.

Three Products with Propolis and Honey

A serum for glow, a light ampoule for blemish-prone skin and a lip mask for the night.