Propolis is a natural ingredient that’s used in Korean skincare to soothe, calm and moisturise the skin. It’s sometimes known as bee glue, which should give you a hint on where it comes from - so if you’re allergic to bees or pollen, then this is one to skip.
Let’s take a look at this Korean wonder-ingredient and how you can add it into your daily skincare routine (spoiler alert: it couldn’t be easier).
What is propolis?
Propolis is collected by bees from tree buds, sap flows, and other botanicals. Don’t get it mixed up with honey though - it’s actually used by bees to seal and protect their hives. Propolis is rich in antioxidants, vitamins, minerals, and amino acids, with a ton of benefits when you add it into your skincare routine.
It’s been used for thousands of years in Eastern medicine as a herbal remedy, but it’s taken off in skincare as it can be used for so many different things, from acne and blemish-prone skin through to moisturising and barrier protection.
What are the benefits of propolis?
There are so many benefits of using propolis in your skincare that it gets added into lots of different products. You can find propolis-infused cleansers, toners, serums, essences, moisturisers and even sheet masks. This versatility allows you to choose products that suit your specific skin care needs and preferences.
Skin soothing and calming
Propolis has amazing anti-inflammatory properties, making it a great ingredient for soothing and calming the skin. It helps reduce redness, irritation, and inflammation making it ideal for sensitive or acne-prone skin. By calming the skin, propolis works as an anti-inflammatory.
Anti-ageing and moisturising effects
Propolis is known for its ability to promote skin elasticity and moisture retention. Its antioxidants help protect the skin from environmental stressors and reduce the signs of ageing, such as fine lines and wrinkles. Additionally, propolis has humectant properties that help lock in moisture, resulting in a plump and hydrated complexion.
Skin barrier protection
Bee propolis helps to protect your skin barrier, leading to less dehydration and reducing skin infections. It reinforces and strengthens your skin barrier, protecting it from environmental damage from free radicals and the weather. This can stop long-term skin damage and works to protect your skin.
Antibacterial and healing
Propolis has natural antibacterial properties so it’s effective in combating acne-causing bacteria and healing damaged skin. It helps prevent breakouts and works amazingly for those with acne-prone skin. Propolis also helps the healing process of existing blemishes, promoting a clearer and healthier complexion.
Brightening and evening out skin tone
Propolis contains flavonoids that help reduce melanin production. This means a more even skin tone and a reduction in hyperpigmentation. By adding propolis into your skincare routine, you can achieve a brighter and more radiant complexion over time.
How to add propolis into your routine
Look for products that contain propolis (aka bee glue) and add them into your routine. Start out with clean skin and apply a propolis-powered toner like the COSRX Propolis Synergy Toner. It’s a powerful blend of propolis and honey extract to nourish and smooth your skin, creating a glowing complexion and reducing dark spots.
If your skin’s feeling dehydrated, dried-out or tired then the COSRX Propolis Light Ampoule is the one for you. It contains over 84% black bee propolis, to help strengthen and protect your skin barrier. It’ll give you skin an instant boost of hydration for gorgeous, glowing skin.
For daily hydration, anti-inflammation and to help prevent premature ageing the COSRX Propolis Light Cream is a total skin saviour. It protects your skin with royal jelly and propolis, helping to create a nourished, balanced complexion.
Adding propolis into your routine couldn’t be(e) easier. Shop COSRX skincare.