Let’s consider the wondrous bee. The miracle worker that is not only a champion pollinator vital to our food supply but also the giver of many healing substances.

The most popular of these is honey, that golden and sweet substance that’s been a food for humans throughout history. Now this sticky substance has found its way into skin care.

But honey’s not the only substance this mighty insect gives us. Propolis, bee pollen, beeswax, royal jelly, and bee venom are other popular ingredients finding their way into topical products to get the skin healthy and glowing.

Here’s the buzz on the skin benefits of these gifts from the bee.

Bee Products for Skin Care

• Honey

  This tasty sweetener, made by bees from nectar and honeydew (a sticky, sugary substance made by aphids), is truly a healing substance. It contains at least 181 ingredients! These include:

  • enzymes
  • organic acids
  • flavonoids
  • essential oils
  • proteins
  • amino acids
  • small amounts of vitamins and minerals

  Uses

  • Healing

    Not only a food, honey also has regenerative properties. It can help detoxify dermal tissue, improve skin elasticity and color, and smooth out wrinkles.

    Honey helps speed up skin cells’ healing activities. In fact, the Manuka variety is so beneficial for wound healing that it’s now used in clinical settings.

    For Acne

    Honey can also help heal acne scars. Apply it every day to scars to help the healing process.

    Always remove honey before going to bed. Remnants on the face can attract dust and dirt, which could lead to more breakouts.

  • Moisturizing

    Honey also helps soften the skin. It adds moisture to dry areas, and it makes creams, lotions, and oils easier to rub in. It’s a balm for chapped lips, dry hands, and even frostbite.

    In its sugared form, honey acts as a peeling agent.

  Usage

  If you decide to make your own skin care treatments, use only raw, unpasteurized honey. Heated varieties don’t have the same powerful nutritional and enzymatic properties.

  Dab raw honey directly on the skin to help with acne, candida overgrowth, eczema, or psoriasis. Or use it as a natural exfoliator to reveal brighter skin.

  Leave the honey on your skin for several minutes and then rinse it off.

• Propolis

  Commonly mixed in beeswax, propolis is also known as bee glue. It is a resinous substance that bees collect from tree buds, shrubs, and plants.

  Propolis has a whopping 300-plus active compounds, including:

  • esters
  • phenolic acids
  • flavonoids
  • aromatic compounds

  Uses

  With antimicrobial, antiseptic, antioxidant, antiviral, and antifungal properties, propolis treats fungal infections, skin burns, and acne vulgaris.

  Look for propolis in sunblock products and protective lipsticks, as it offers protection from ultraviolet radiation.

• Bee Pollen

  Bees bring pollen from plants back to the hives. Bee pollen has at least 200 active substances, including:

  • vitamins
  • flavonoids
  • hydroxy acids
  • unsaturated fatty acids

  Uses

  A strong antifungal, bee pollen is an anti-inflammatory and immuno-stimulating agent that can regenerate damaged skin tissue.

  With its high content of flavonoids, it affects cell metabolism and boosts regeneration.

  Bee pollen extracts and dried grains of bee pollen are sometimes added to natural cosmetics and skin care.

  Look for skin products combining omega-rich fatty acids with bee pollen to help with scarring and sensitive skin.

• Beeswax

  Beeswax is a natural secretion formed from the wax-producing glands in worker bees’ abdomens. It’s used by bees to build honeycomb cells. For us humans, it’s an important cosmetic ingredient.

  Uses

  An emulsifying agent, beeswax forms the base for many lip balms, lipsticks, and creams because of its softening and lubricating properties, which also help prevent water loss from the skin.

  Beeswax can help psoriasis, dermatitis, and the overgrowth of normal skin flora.

• Royal Jelly

  With such a regal name, it’s no surprise this ingredient is a supreme skin defender.

  Uses

  It has anti-inflammatory, anti-aging, antimicrobial, and regenerative properties to help repair skin tissues, wounds, and burns. It can also help heal shingles.

  Find royal jelly as an ingredient in balms, lotions, and creams. Products with higher amounts of royal jelly tend to absorb well with no greasy residue.

• Bee Venom

  It sounds scary, but don’t let the name sway you from bee venom’s healing properties.

  An effective, natural toxin rich in peptides, it offers antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, antifungal, and antimicrobial actions.

  Uses

  Many like bee venom for its natural botox-like properties, which help boost collagen production and improve elasticity.

  Bee venom can be found in anti-acne products, as well as in treatments for wounds, psoriasis, and atopic dermatitis.

  Bee venom’s recently been found effective for fighting wrinkles and photo-damaged skin.

  Those with dry, aging, and acne-prone skin benefit most from this ingredient.

  Look for bee venom-infused moisturizers to heal patches of itchy and dry skin.

Precautions: Bee Safe

Allergic reactions, though not common, can occur when using bee products.

Bee pollen is the most frequent allergen causing hypersensitivity, and beeswax is the least allergenic.

If you have allergies to bee venom, use caution with products containing honey and other bee ingredients.

Allergies to honey are rare. However, some individuals can experience skin rashes and eczema when applying royal jelly topically. Always do a patch test before using.

Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) reflects elevated testosterone and DHEA (which turns into testosterone in the body) hormone levels.

Causes

This often comes from insulin resistance, often caused by excess sugar in the diet. 

Some common triggers for the elevated testosterone include:

• excess sugar in the diet
• supplementation with testosterone or DHEA
• adrenal fatigue
• menopause (causes an increase in the ratio of estrogen to testosterone, which controls facial hair growth).

Symptoms

The high testosterone can problems including:

• acne
• irregular periods
• weight gain
• infertility
• ovarian cysts

Many people with PCOS do not have ovarian cysts.

Facial Hair Growth

As in men, high levels of testosterone trigger facial hair growth in women as well.

The high testosterone is the most common cause of excess facial hair in women.

Treatment for PCOS

Treatment often helps in many ways, including restoration of fertility.

• Elimination

  • Be sure you are not taking any supplements with DHEA or testosterone.
  • Cut out the excess sweets/sugar in your diet, especially sodas and fruit juices.
    • Sweets worsen the insulin resistance. Stevia is OK.
    • See Beat Sugar Addiction NOW! for help.

• Recommend Supplements

  • D-Chiro Inositol

    The supplement D-chiro inositol 600 milligrams (mg) 1 to 2 times a day lowered elevated testosterone levels by over 70% in one study.

  • Chromium

    Take chromium 200 to 1,000 µg daily (it has a modest effect).

    The weight loss is easier after you do the above. Also address any thyroid hormone deficiencies.

• Medications

  • Metformin

    Metformin (prescription) 500-1,000 mg 2x day is a very helpful and safe medication. It’s so wonderful and safe I think it should be classified as an honorary natural supplement!

    In addition to helping the overall process, it often restores fertility (and is both safe and healthy to take during the pregnancy).

    The main concern is that it will cause B12 deficiency if not taking B12 along with it.

  • Cortef

    Cortef (prescription) up to 15 mg a day if symptoms/labs suggest the need for adrenal support (e.g., irritable when hungry).

    Adrenal expert professor William Jefferies routinely recommends ultra low-dose Cortef for PCOS.

    Half of a woman’s testosterone is made by the adrenal gland, and taking Cortef decreases stimulation of the adrenal.

    Using a natural adrenal support product may also help and is especially worth considering if the ACTH blood test is in the upper half of the normal range.

  • Birth Control Pills

    Birth control pills can help the menstrual irregularity if it persists despite the above.

What Causes Acne?

Acne affects over 85% of teenagers. They occur when pores, which drain the oil producing glands in the skin, get blocked. This plug forms whiteheads (if under the skin) or blackheads (if the plug is visible). When the pore gets blocked, it may get infected by skin bacteria, causing the red, inflamed pustular acne.

Acne usually begins along with the increased sex hormone production that accompanies puberty (e.g., DHEA, estrogen and testosterone). These hormones increase the production of skin oils (sebum) and the glands that make them, causing the acne to flare.

High sugar and carbs in the diet can stimulate increased levels of these hormones and increase acne formation. In addition, scratching or irritating a pimple causes it to get inflamed. 

Prevention

People who live in non-industrialized countries with a healthy unprocessed diet simply don’t get zits — until they move to the U.S. or Europe!

General Diet Advice

1. Avoid sugar and high carbohydrate foods

2. A high protein and low sugar diet decreases acne by half after 12 weeks. The good news— chocolate has been shown not to cause acne.

3. Avoid milk and cheese products: Avoid for 6-10 weeks. This helps in some cases. If it helps after 6 weeks, cut back on milk products.

Treatment

It can take 6 weeks to see the benefits of acne treatments.

Supplements

• Vitamin A 2,000-4,000 units/day helps dry the skin. Caution: Over 4,000 units a day is bad for bone development (if used long term); over 8,000 units a day can cause birth defects; and over 25,000 units a day can cause liver problems—so higher doses should only be used with the guidance of a health practitioner (beta carotene is OK but does not help the acne). Vitamin A skin creams are safe (e.g., Retin A).
• Zinc 15-30 mg/day increases the effectiveness of the vitamin A and speeds skin healing.
• Fish oil is helpful in those with moderate to severe acne, but actually worsens mild acne. Use a supplement that only has the omega 3 you need without the oil.
• If constipated (less than a daily bowel movement) add fiber to your diet (e.g., vegetables, whole grain cereal low in sugar for breakfast).
• Chromium, 200-400 mcg/day (optional).
• Vitamin B6, 50-100 mg/day (optional).
• Drinking aloe vera juice 4-8 oz a day helps skin healing.

Vitamins A and B6, zinc, and chromium can be found combined in a good multivitamin (see Multi-Nutrient Powders).

Other Treatments

• For Drying Skin

  Topical vitamin A creams (such as Retin A by prescription) or Benzoyl peroxide (over the counter). Both are OK.

• To Kill Skin Bacteria

  Topical antibiotics are very reasonable. Antibiotics by mouth, though sometimes needed, are a bad idea for long term use. A natural alternative to topical antibiotics (or used along with them) would be “Tea Tree” oil 5%.

With the antibacterial smackdown over the past few decades, probiotics have emerged as a way to restore the good bacteria our bodies need to stay healthy. Now we’ve begun to realize that probiotics promote not just internal health, but external health as well.

Bacteria For Your Skin

Our skin is the largest organ in the body, with more than a trillion native bacteria living within its microbiome. Most of us cringe at the thought of bugs, even microscopic ones, but the truth is, good bacteria such as Lactobacillus plantarum and Bifidobacterium longum are our first line of defense against infections, inflammation, and environmental damage. They also contribute to healthy, glowing skin. When we constantly use harsh skin cleansers, we destroy our body’s good bacteria, which can contribute to acne, eczema, and other skin conditions. But probiotic-infused skin-care products can improve complexions, balance pH levels, and ward off premature aging.

How Probiotics Work For Your Skin

“When you apply probiotics topically, they act as a physical shield like a barrier, blocking harmful microbes from causing inflammation or infection,” explains Whitney Bowe, MD, an expert in skin rejuvenation. These bacterial-boosting skin care products contain live cultures that fortify our microbiomes and revitalize skin by fighting “bad bacteria” with “good bacteria.”

These natural bacteria “help promote healthy skin function,” adds dermatologist Rhonda Klein. “Skin-care products that contain (them) are thought to reset the microbiome that has been altered by our obsession with cleanliness.”

Probiotic Skin Care Products

Probiotic-infused facial and body products for oily, normal, or severely dry skin come in everything from creams, oils, and serums to masks and mists. Probiotic skin care treatments may be especially useful for people with chronic inflammation, such as acne, rosacea, and eczema.

The omega oils are a great dietary or supplemental choice for many reasons, for many people. It's especially true for people who want to keep their skin youthful looking.

But did you know that they also may alleviate some chronic or occasional skin conditions?

How Do Fatty Acids Help Your Skin?

Just how essential to skin health are the so-called essential fatty acids?

Initial Studies on Omega Oils

Nearly 100 years ago, researchers put rats on a no-fat diet. Among other health problems, the rats developed skin abnormalities and transepidermal water loss.

Reintroducing saturated fats did not reverse the skin damage, but when the rats were fed polyunsaturated fatty acids—omega 3s and 6s—the skin issues completely cleared up.

How Omegas Can Help Your Skin

We know now that both 3s and 6s are critical to keeping your skin healthy and looking its best.

• Omega-3 fatty acids contribute to immune function.
• Omega-6 fatty acids contribute to the skin’s structural integrity and to its barrier function.

For Inflammation

Both omegas 3 and 6 can also control inflammatory skin responses.

Most Americans do not get enough gamma linolenic acid (GLA), a powerful anti-inflammatory from the omega-6 family.

Omegas as a Remedy for Skin Flare-ups

If you or a family member deals with a skin condition, consider omegas, especially omega 3s.

In addition to playing a role in the overall health of your skin, they can improve a variety of skin disorders.

Consider the research:

• Acne

  Researchers divided 45 people with mild to moderate acne into three groups:

  • an omega 3 group who received 2,000 milligrams (mg) of eicosapentaenoic acid and DHA
  • a borage oil (omega 6) group who received 400 mg of borage oil
  • a control group

  After 10 weeks of supplementation, they found a significant reduction in lesions in both omega groups.

• Eczema (Atopic Dermatitis)

  A 2014 meta-analysis of research on atopic dermatitis (known as eczema) suggested that evening primrose oil (an omega 6) and the omega-3 fatty acid docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) may help some sufferers.

  Later, a 2015 German study found omega 3s may help prevent atopic dermatitis, also known as eczema.

• Psoriasis

  Scientists reviewed studies of different dietary supplements used by psoriasis patients, including vitamin D, vitamin B12, selenium, and the omega-3 fatty acids found in fish oils.

  They found that the fish oils provided the most benefits.

• Rosacea

  In a 2016 randomized, controlled study of people with dry-eye symptoms stemming from rosacea, people were given either omega-3 fatty acids or a placebo twice a day for six months.

  The researchers found the symptoms of those who received the omega 3s significantly improved.

Sources of Omega 3s and Omega 6s

The essential fatty acids can’t be made in the body, so we need to get them through food or supplements.

You can get omegas through the food you eat, as dietary supplements, and even as topical supplements that you apply directly to your skin.

• Omega 3s

  The standard American diet is typically too low in omega 3s.

  Omegas can be found in many foods, but great sources include:

  • dark greens
  • walnuts
  • canola oil
  • flaxseed
  • fatty fish
    • salmon
    • tuna

• Omega 6s

  Most Americans actually consume too much omega-6 fatty acid!

  That's due to its presence in commercially processed vegetable oils and grains.

  Omega 6s can be found in a variety of sources:

  • some high-protein foods, like:
    • meat
    • eggs
    • tofu
  • certain oils, including:
    • safflower oil
    • evening primrose oil
    • borage oil

• Gamma Linolenic Acid (GLA)

  Good sources of GLA include:

  • borage oil
  • evening primrose oil
  • black currant seed oil

Starting a new school year is nerve-wracking enough without having to deal with a last-minute breakout. Implement this anti-acne plan now, and soon you’ll be walking the school corridors with your head held high.

Natural Acne Management

• Gentle Cleansing

  The first step in caring for problematic, acne-prone skin is to use a gentle cleanser rich in antioxidants.

  Look for vitamin A derivatives, also known as retinoids, as well as vitamin C.

  Cleansers that use essential oils (such as lemongrass, grapefruit, and cranberry) will help regulate your skin’s oil production.

• Zinc

  Zinc is essential to controlling acne. Look for topical facial products that contain zinc.

  Make sure you’re eating enough of the right foods, such as:

  • pumpkin seeds
  • yogurt
  • cashews
  • chickpeas
  • spinach

• Acid Exfoliation

  If you’ve been battling breakouts for a while, you’re probably familiar with the power of salicylic acid and glycolic acid to help control mild to moderate acne.

  Both salicylic and glycolic acids are great at exfoliating dead skin cells. Look for maximum strength 2 percent salicylic acid to help prevent clogged pores.

• Topical Oil

  Although it seems counterintuitive, oil can be used to fight oil. Moroccan argan oil is a secret weapon when it comes to fighting acne.

  This deeply nourishing oil is rich in beneficial essential fatty acids and antioxidants. It’s also high in vitamin E, which is good for damaged and inflamed skin.

  To use Moroccan argan oil, dampen your hands and then apply just a tiny bit to your face before bed. Your wet hands will help spread a small amount of oil easily.

  Regular use of Moroccan argan oil can significantly reduce oiliness.

• Lifestyle Tips

  • Don’t squeeze pimples.
  • Wash your pillowcase regularly.
  • Reduce consumption of refined, processed foods.
  • Avoid simple sugars, especially soda.

Sometimes a pimple is just a pimple, but many times it’s a sign our bodies need some extra care. Our skin often reflects overall health. As our largest organ, it can signal that something deeper needs looking after.

We often think of acne as being isolated to the skin, but if we look deeper, we can see there are systemic issues going on. Yes, we should be caring for our skin with external measures to keep pores clear, but we need to be caring for our bodies as well. Poor diet, digestive problems, hormone imbalances, and toxins and heavy metals are often the real culprits behind a chronic acne problem.

External skin care

In addition to natural, soap-free acne cleansers, or even the seemingly counterintuitive “oil cleansing” method (many people with acne swear by it), there are other approaches that can reduce bacteria and balance oil production.

A few drops of antiseptic essential oils such as tea tree, lavender, sandalwood, and oregano mixed in pure water and sprayed or blotted onto the skin can be helpful.

Raw manuka honey can be used as a nourishing antibacterial and exfoliating mask or cleanser. Lemon juice and/or baking soda can also help exfoliate skin, and apple cider vinegar has antibacterial properties and the right level of acidity to help protect skin.

Whenever undertaking a new topical regimen, it’s important to start with a small test area to make sure your skin responds well.

From the inside out

Acne is much more prevalent in industrialized societies, which may be a result of the Western diet, environmental toxins, or other modern influences. A few lifestyle changes can make a big difference.

It’s important to avoid inflammatory, processed foods like sugar and sweets, trans-fats, dairy, deep-fried foods, and chemical additives. Also, eliminating gluten helps some people. These ingredients can wreak havoc on our digestive system, which is directly related to skin health. They can also contribute to hormone imbalance, feed bad bacteria, and weaken the skin’s protective and repair mechanisms.

Instead, emphasize green leafy vegetables such as chard, kale, and spinach; brightly colored vegetables like peppers, squash, and sweet potatoes; sulfur-rich foods like broccoli, cabbage, and eggs; healthy fats like omega 3s and olive oil; and lean, organic protein. Probiotic foods such as sauerkraut, low-fat yogurt, kefir, and miso contain beneficial bacteria that can support skin, digestive, and overall health. There are also many herbs that can help by reducing inflammation and free radical damage, including ginger, turmeric, oregano, thyme, and rosemary.

Antioxidant-rich fruits like berries, melons, and mangos are good for the skin, but use fruits in moderation as they can spike glucose levels, resulting in inflammation.

Detox & nourishment

Unprocessed, clean foods like those mentioned above help reduce inflammation, nourish the skin and body, and promote detoxification. In addition, a number of supplements can help further these benefits.

Food-based sources of A, B complex, C and E (mixed tocotrienols) provide antioxidant support and promote detoxification. Zinc helps fight bacteria associated with acne and supports skin repair. Antioxidants such as alpha lipoic acid, CoQ10, and N-Acetyl-Cysteine (NAC) support skin health and fight inflammation. Nutritional enzyme supplements reduce inflammation, and support digestion, circulation, and tissue repair. Be sure to stay hydrated with plenty of filtered water as well.

For more complete detoxification and overall health support, consider supplements that include a combination of alginates from seaweed and modified citrus pectin (MCP). MCP safely removes heavy metals, such as lead, cadmium, and mercury from the body, while actively supporting cellular health, cardiovascular health, immunity, and more. Alginates are also known for their ability to detoxify heavy metals and radioactive isotopes.