Propolis Skincare & My Autoimmune Journey

You know, out here in the apiary, surrounded by the gentle hum of my bees, I'm constantly amazed by the gifts they bring us. And there's one in particular that both my bees and I absolutely adore – propolis. I've watched them meticulously craft this incredible substance, using it to keep their hives healthy and thriving. And let me tell you, this isn't just some sticky bee glue. Propolis is like liquid gold, and what it does for their hive, it can also do for your skin. It's a natural wonder, packed with benefits that are now being recognized by science. But for me, discovering propolis was more than just uncovering a skincare secret. It was a turning point in my own health journey, a journey that led me to create Polli Bee Naturals.

For years, I struggled with a challenging autoimmune disorder that took a toll on my body, and especially my skin. I dealt with constant inflammation, redness, irritation, and flare-ups that were both physically and emotionally draining. My skin was sensitive, and most conventional skincare products only made things worse, leading to a frustrating cycle of trial and error. I felt like I was at war with my own skin. I tried countless creams, lotions, and treatments, but nothing seemed to provide lasting relief. Many were filled with harsh chemicals that irritated my skin further. I was desperate for a solution that was both effective and gentle. That's when my journey took me to the fascinating world of bees.

I'd always been drawn to nature, and my grandmother was a beekeeper. In my search for answers, I became captivated by the incredible lives of honeybees. As I dove deeper, learning about their intricate societies and the amazing products they create, I discovered propolis. And, honestly, it changed my life. That's why I started beekeeping, and eventually, that's why I founded Polli Bee Naturals.

The Buzz About Propolis and Skin Health

Okay, let's get down to the nitty-gritty. What exactly is propolis? Picture this: busy bees, hard at work, not just making honey, but also crafting this incredible resinous substance. They gather sap and resins from trees and plants, mix it with beeswax, and their own amazing enzymes, and voila – propolis!

Bees are basically tiny architects and pharmacists rolled into one. They use propolis as a sealant and disinfectant in their hives, keeping everything clean and protected. It's like their natural defense system. And guess what? A group of medical scientists in Korea recently published research about how propolis reduced UV-induced skin damage.

The Beekeeper Who Started Polli Bee Naturals 

My name is Cate Coiner, and I'm the founder and head beekeeper of Polli Bee Naturals. My bees and I live in Escondido, California, where they work tirelessly making all the honey, propolis, pollen, and beeswax that go into our skincare line. You could say beekeeping is in my blood. My grandmother was a beekeeper, and when she passed away, I felt a calling to continue her legacy.

Starting my own apiary wasn't just about following in her footsteps, though. It became a lifeline during a particularly challenging time in my life. I was working as an acute care healthcare practitioner during the pandemic – a period of intense stress and chaos. The beehives became my sanctuary, a place where I could find peace, connect with nature, and commune with God. But something even more profound happened as I worked alongside these amazing creatures.

As I experienced firsthand the honey, propolis, and other incredible things my bees created, I began to notice a shift in my own health. For years, I had battled an autoimmune disorder that left my digestive system, joints, and skin in constant turmoil. But slowly, surely, I started to experience deep healing in all of those areas. My skin, in particular, which had always been inflamed and reactive, began to calm down. This personal transformation, sparked by the very products my bees were making, ignited a passion within me.

My interest in propolis, especially, was more than just about discovering a great skincare ingredient. It was born out of a deep, personal need for something that could truly soothe and heal. I had grown discouraged and uncomfortable in my own skin, and propolis offered a path to healing I hadn't found anywhere else. It became clear that propolis wasn't just a skincare trend; it was a return to ancient wisdom that my body desperately craved.

The Science-Backed Benefits of Propolis for Skin

Alright, let's put on our lab coats and jump head-first into the science. Here's why propolis has become my skincare holy grail, backed by actual research and my own personal experience:

1. Protecting My Skin from the Inside Out

You know how an apple turns brown when exposed to air? That's oxidation, and a similar process happens in our skin, caused by those pesky free radicals. These little troublemakers come from pollution, UV rays, stress – basically, daily life! They damage our skin cells, leading to wrinkles, dullness, and all those things we try to avoid. For someone with an autoimmune disorder, this damage can be even more pronounced.

This is where propolis comes in like a superhero. It's packed with flavonoids and phenolic compounds, which are potent antioxidants. A study published in the Journal of Food Science and Technology found that propolis has significant antioxidant activity, even comparable to some synthetic antioxidants.

That's like a shield against those free radical attacks, keeping my skin looking younger and healthier. And for me, it meant finally finding relief from the constant oxidative stress my skin was under.

2. Saying "Bye-Bye" to Inflammation and Redness

My skin used to be in a constant state of inflammation – redness, blotchiness, and irritation were my daily companions. This was a direct result of my autoimmune condition. Turns out, inflammation was a major underlying factor. Propolis is a natural anti-inflammatory agent, and this isn't just hearsay. This was a game changer for me.

Research published in Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine highlights the anti-inflammatory properties of propolis, attributing them to compounds like caffeic acid phenethyl ester (CAPE). This means propolis helps calm down my skin, reducing redness and making it feel so much more comfortable. It was the first time in years that my skin felt truly soothed.

3. Treating Acne With Propolis

Even with an autoimmune disorder, acne was still a struggle. But since incorporating propolis into my routine? A huge difference. Propolis has natural antibacterial properties, and studies have shown it to be effective against Propionibacterium acnes, the bacteria that plays a major role in acne.

A study in the Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology demonstrated the efficacy of a propolis-based cream in treating acne vulgaris. Fewer breakouts, less redness, and my skin heals faster from any blemishes that do pop up.

4. Our Honeybee Hydration Hero

Dry, flaky skin was another constant battle, a common side effect of many autoimmune conditions. Propolis is naturally moisturizing and helps my skin retain hydration. It contains natural emollients and humectants that keep my skin feeling soft, supple, and plump.The science here lies in propolis's ability to improve the skin's barrier function. A strong skin barrier prevents moisture loss, and a study in the journal Burns demonstrated that propolis can enhance skin barrier repair. For me, this meant I could finally say goodbye to that tight, uncomfortable feeling.

5. Brighter Days Ahead: A More Even Skin Tone

Who doesn't want a brighter, more even complexion? My skin tone was often uneven due to inflammation and scarring. Propolis can help with that too! It contains compounds that can inhibit melanin production, the pigment responsible for skin color.

Research in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology found that propolis extract can have a skin-lightening effect. This means it can help fade dark spots and hyperpigmentation, giving me a more radiant glow, and evening out the discoloration caused by my condition.

My Propolis Skincare Routine

So, how do I incorporate this bee-autiful ingredient into my daily routine? It's super easy. My own struggles with finding the right skincare led me to create Polli Bee Naturals. I needed products I could trust, made with the highest quality propolis, straight from our happy, healthy hives. And that's exactly what we offer.

• Morning Buzz: I start my day by cleansing with our Propolis Gentle Cleanser. It's infused with propolis extract and other soothing botanicals to wash away impurities without stripping my skin. Then, a few drops of our Burr Comb Serum. This is my secret weapon for a healthy glow. It's packed with antioxidants and feels amazing on my skin. Finally, I lock in all that goodness with our Beeswax Daily Moisturizer, and of course, a good SPF! Sun protection is non-negotiable, folks!

• Evening Ritual: After a long day, especially if I've been out tending to the bees, I double cleanse, first with an oil cleanser and then our Propolis Cleanser again. This ensures all traces of makeup, sunscreen, and the day's grime are gone. A few nights a week, I'll indulge in our Pollen Honey Mask. It's a luxurious treat that leaves my skin feeling incredibly soft and nourished. Next up, I apply a hydrating toner. Now the serum, and then our Beeswax Moisturizer. It works its magic while I sleep, and I wake up with plump, happy skin!

From My Hive to Yours

As a beekeeper, and someone who has personally benefited from the healing power of propolis, I have a deep respect for these incredible insects and the gifts they provide. At Polli Bee Naturals, we're not just about skincare; we're about a holistic approach to well-being, one that's in harmony with nature. This company was born out of a genuine need, and a deep desire to share the healing power of nature with others.

When you choose Polli Bee Naturals, you're not just getting high-quality propolis skincare. You're supporting sustainable beekeeping practices that prioritize the health of our bees and the environment. I personally oversee every step of the process, from hive to bottle, ensuring that our propolis is ethically sourced and handled with the utmost care. We believe in transparency and education. That's why I love sharing my knowledge about bees and their amazing products. I want you to understand why propolis is so beneficial for your skin, especially if, like me, you've struggled to find products that work, and feel confident in the choices you're making. It makes my day when a customer tells me how much they're loving their new Polli Bee products, and how it's transformed their skin, especially those who share similar stories of skin sensitivities and health challenges.

Join the Hive: Experience the Polli Bee Naturals Difference

So, are you ready to experience the magic of propolis skincare for yourself? I invite you to explore our collection of Polli Bee Naturals products, crafted with love and the finest ingredients from our hives, and with the needs of sensitive, reactive skin in mind.

Propolis skincare isn't just another beauty trend; it's a natural, effective way to achieve healthy, radiant skin, and it was a true lifesaver for me. It's a testament to the power of nature and the incredible wisdom of the honeybees.

Thank you for joining me on this journey into the world of propolis. I hope you've learned something new and are inspired to give your skin the gift of nature's liquid gold. Remember, when you choose Polli, you're choosing products that are good for you, good for the bees, and good for the planet. And you are choosing products made by someone who truly understands the struggle for healthy skin.

Here's to healthy skin and happy bees!

With love,

Cate

Head Beekeeper, Polli Bee Naturals