Beeswax

The oldest form of wax, beeswax is made by the honey bees while constructing the honeycomb. These bees drink honey and then the glands in the abdomen use this honey to make beeswax. (1) Beeswax holds immense importance in the history of medicine. In ancient times, beeswax was used for tooth fillings as well as to preserve dead bodies. Romans used beeswax as currency for trade and obtained tax in the same form. This wax was used to make wax statues. While beeswax was used in past for various purposes, it is still used in several skin care products and to treat ailments. (2)

When applied to burns, beeswax speeds up the process of healing and decreases itching during the healing process. Due to this, beeswax is an essential ingredient in burn ointments. Ulcers, mouth sores, and swelling are treated by using beeswax. The anti-inflammatory effect of insulin prevents the body from severe damage. (2)

The antimicrobial activity of beeswax protects from many variants of bacteria and fungi. Hippocrates used beeswax to treat bacterial tonsillitis, which is the infection of tonsils. Beeswax can be used with olive oil and honey to provide maximum benefits. The wax seals the skin cells together and prevents the bacteria from entering the skin and causing infection. Dermatitis is an allergic reaction of the skin that can also be treated using beeswax. (3)

Beeswax is an important ingredient in skincare and makeup products. From chapped lips to rough and dry skin, beeswax resolves almost every problem.

1. Beeswax is a humectant which means it attracts water and hydrates the skin.
2. It exfoliates the skin and removes the dead skin cells. Removal of dead skin cells makes your skin soft and gives your face a younger and fresh look.
3. Beeswax soothes your skin and reduces irritation. It is used to treat skin conditions including psoriasis and dermatitis.
4. Beeswax locks in moisture and does not clog pores. Beeswax lets the skin breathe and stay healthy.
5. Beeswax contains vitamin A which promotes cell regeneration and heals damaged skin. (4)

A major portion of beeswax is composed of fatty acids. This higher fat content makes beeswax an emulsifier for skincare products such as balms, creams, and emollients. The emulsifying function of the wax helps combine all the ingredients and gives a smoother application of the product. (5) It helps strengthen the skin barrier and prevents excess water loss. When the skin is plump and well-hydrated, the wrinkles and fine lines fade and appear less prominent. Beeswax makes skincare products thicker and helps them stay at their place. The greater fat content of the wax makes the makeup products water-resistant and smudge-free. (6)

When it comes to styling hair, beeswax sets the standard.

1. Vitamin A in beeswax moisturizes the hair and makes them smooth and shiny.
2. Beeswax maintains hairstyles of every sort, be it curly, braided, or straight hair, this wax keeps everything in place.
3. Beeswax is among the many natural remedies for the treatment of psoriasis, dandruff, and eczema. (7)
4. It contains antioxidants that protect hair from external damage such as heat and dust.
5. Beeswax does not clog pores as well as doesn’t make the hair greasy while styling.
6. People who have dreadlocks can apply beeswax to prevent the accumulation of dirt and dust on hair strands. (8)

Beeswax is your skin’s best friend. This valuable gift from honeybees has been used for ages and also blesses mankind in today’s time. Be it any skin disease or dry and damaged hair, beeswax works wonders due to its high fat and vitamin content. Don’t forget to do a patch test before using beeswax to see if you’re allergic to it or not.

1. BEESWAX: Overview, Uses, Side Effects, Precautions, Interactions, Dosing and Reviews [Internet]. Webmd.com. [cited 4 December 2021]. Available from: https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-305/beeswax.
2. Beeswax and Human History. – Ben Bees [Internet]. Ben Bees. 2016 [cited 4 December 2021]. Available from: https://www.bensbees.com.au/2016/05/05/beeswax-human-history/.
3. Fratini F. Beeswax: A minireview of its antimicrobial activity and its application in medicine [Internet]. Science Direst. 2016 [cited 4 December 2021]. Available from: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1995764516301407.
4. Kester S. Beeswax Uses for Skin Care [Internet]. Healthline. 2019 [cited 4 December 2021]. Available from: https://www.healthline.com/health/beeswax-uses.
5. Khan, I. and Abourashed, E. Leung’s encyclopedia of common natural ingredients: used in food, drugs, and cosmetics. John Wiley & Sons, 48-51 (2011)
6. Beeswax In Skincare: How Does It Help Skin? – Beautiful With Brains [Internet]. Beautiful With Brains. [cited 4 December 2021]. Available from: https://www.beautifulwithbrains.com/know-your-ingredients-beeswax/.
7. Sharkey L. Beeswax for Hair, Beards, and Dreads: What to Know and What to Avoid [Internet]. Healthline. 2019 [cited 4 December 2021]. Available from: https://www.healthline.com/health/beeswax-for-hair#benefits.
8. 5 Surprising Benefits of Beeswax for Hair [Internet]. Cool Men’s Hair. [cited 4 December 2021]. Available from: https://coolmenshair.com/benefits-of-beeswax-for-hair/.