Beeswax Skin Health and Skin Benefits
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Introduction to Beeswax​
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When we think of bees and their incredible contributions, honey often takes center stage as we often are reminded of the pure sweetness of it. However, one must not overlook the marvelous properties of beeswax. Often grouped with other bee-derived products like propolis, bee pollen, bee bread, royal jelly, and bee venom, beeswax has been utilized in medicine since ancient times. With a rich history and a multitude of benefits, beeswax has carved a niche for itself in the world of skincare and makeup.
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Beeswax is a substance secreted by glands located in the abdomen of worker bees. A recent review conducted by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) sheds light on the multifaceted uses of beeswax in modern-day applications. In skincare, beeswax serves as an “occlusive agent”, creating a “semi-occlusive barrier” on the skin's surface. This barrier minimizes transepidermal water loss, effectively retaining hydration within the skin. Acting as a natural barrier, beeswax locks in moisture, ensuring the skin remains supple and hydrated. Furthermore, its emollient properties contribute to the softening and soothing of the skin. As a natural substance, beeswax has been shown to alleviate symptoms associated with common cutaneous conditions like dermatitis, psoriasis, and overgrowth of normal skin flora.
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In the realm of cosmetics, beeswax plays a vital role as a stiffener. Its presence provides elasticity, plasticity, and increased skin adhesiveness in various products. Beeswax serves as the base for lipsticks, sticks, and creams, lending structure and stability to these formulations. Its lubricating and softening activities contribute to a smoother application and reduced transepidermal water loss from the skin.
Additionally, beeswax contains compounds such as squalene, 10-hydroxy-trans-2-decenoic acid, and flavonoids like chrysin, which possess antiseptic properties. These compounds help protect the skin against pathogenic microorganisms, ensuring its overall health and well-being. Furthermore, beeswax forms a protective barrier against external factors by creating a film on the skin's surface, safeguarding it from environmental stressors.
Another noteworthy attribute of beeswax is its contribution to skincare through its vitamin content. Beeswax contains β-carotene, which is converted into valuable vitamin A within the body. Vitamin A plays a crucial role in maintaining skin health by delaying collagen degradation and stimulating mitotic division in the epidermis. This process promotes faster skin regeneration after damage, leading to a more youthful and rejuvenated appearance.
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In the world of cosmetics, beeswax plays a pivotal role as an emulsifier, facilitating the blending of various ingredients in cosmetic formulations. Its emulsifying properties ensure that the components of skincare and makeup products are properly mixed, creating effective formulations.
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Beeswax Improves:
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dermatitis
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psoriasis
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Resources:​
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Products containing Beeswax
