Among skin diseases, acne is the most common and impactful. It is a multifactorial condition influenced by hyperkeratosis, sebaceous hyperplasia, bacterial overcolonization, immune reactions, and inflammation.
For acne treatment, topical products are widely used, with or without systemic medications. Alpha hydroxy acids, benzoyl peroxide, retinoids, azelaic acid, and antibiotics are frequently employed. However, due to the adverse effects and bacterial resistance associated with the use of synthetic antibiotics, there is a growing trend towards seeking alternatives to these treatments. Natural products are increasingly favored, and natural honey products, such as propolis, are among the best options. For example, the Fakhd Al-Qanoun store produces natural honey.
Propolis is a resinous, waxy, balsamic substance mixed with pollen and bee saliva. It is sticky, ranging in color from dark brown and reddish to greenish-black, and has a bitter, pungent taste. It contains a complex mixture of anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial compounds. Dingra explains, "It was widely used for its antibacterial and antifungal properties."
For many decades, it has been favored as a natural healing and anti-infective agent due to its antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antibacterial, and antifungal properties.
Treats acne scars : Some of the patients who have seen the benefits of propolis are acne sufferers. Dingra says, "For treating acne scars (such as scars, pigmentation, and tissue problems), a product containing propolis certainly has the vital properties to help resolve these specific concerns."
In this sense, propolis is prominent in the treatment of acne. Its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties provide a reduction in both inflammatory and non-inflammatory lesions, along with a significant decrease in sebum and excess oil from the skin, all with excellent tolerability.
How to use propolis to treat acne:
For topical use, use pure propolis or a skincare product containing propolis as an active ingredient. Apply it to the affected area twice daily, using it as a supplement to combat bacteria that can cause acne.
Related research:
Propolis and its Cosmetic Applications: A Technological Prospection
Propolis and its cosmetic applications: Mining technology
There are many alternatives to synthetic medications available for treating acne, one of which is propolis. Laboratory studies document the high antimicrobial activity of propolis extract at various concentrations (10%, 5%, 2.5%, 1.25%, and 0.625%) against acne. This antimicrobial effect may be linked to the components of propolis, particularly flavonoids and beta-coumarin acid derivatives, which have a clear effect in eliminating acne.
Treatment of acne with a combination of propolis, tea tree oil, and Aloe vera compared to erythromycin cream: two double-blind investigations
Acne treatment with a combination of propolis, tea tree oil, and aloe vera compared to erythromycin cream: Two double-blind trials
Antibiotics that inhibit acne, specifically Propionibacterium acnes, have become less effective due to the emergence of antibiotic-resistant strains. This study aims to evaluate the anti-acne efficacy of a new cream based on three natural extracts and compare it to erythromycin cream and a placebo.
Sixty patients with mild to moderate acne were randomly divided into three groups: After 15 and 30 days, the researchers assessed the response to treatment by counting acne lesions through non-invasive measurements and macroscopic imaging.
This study showed that a cream containing propolis, tea tree oil, and A. vera was more effective in reducing acne compared to synthetic preparations such as erythromycin. Furthermore, the preparation based on a natural product was found to be more effective in reducing erythema.
