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How Do I Use Beeswax for Skin?

Dan Harkins
Dan Harkins

Of the many uses for beeswax, inside and outside the hive, skin protector is among the more obscure but better verified. Though often found in cosmetics alongside other known natural moisturizers like aloe, urea or shea butter, beeswax is primarily used when protection from the elements is desired too. This could be a lip balm to keep skin moist in frigid temperatures, or it could be a hand lotion with beeswax for skin that is exposed all day to moisture-stealing paper.

Honeycomb is secreted by female worker bees to cap the honeycombs where eggs are hatched and honey is stored. It is also used to seal off cracks in the hive that could permit access to predators or rain. To get at the honey being stored in the honeycombs, the beeswax caps must be removed. This wax, along with the scrapings from the crevices of the hive, is collected by beekeepers, melted down and filtered of impurities. It can then be packaged for sale as beeswax for skin products, hair pomades, candles, leather restorers or supplements.

The honey bee is the only species of bee that can make beeswax.
The honey bee is the only species of bee that can make beeswax.

Beeswax has a scientifically proven reputation for skin protection. According to a 2003 study, published in the German Journal der Deutschen Dermatologischen Gesellschaft, using beeswax for skin conditions or protection might have more success than several popular alternatives. Study participants rated a moisturizer with beeswax 98 percent effective, compared to 77 percent for a moisturizer with urea and 67 percent or less for popular commercial barrier creams. Apart from that, beeswax moisturizers can help prevent a greasy effect in lotions, which could cause various occupational difficulties or hazards.

Beeswax could be used as lip balm.
Beeswax could be used as lip balm.

When using beeswax for skin conditions or protection against the elements, consumers often purchase balms, lotions or creams with beeswax in several known moisturizers and skin protectors. Some alternatives or complements to beeswax are petrolatum, shea butter, urea cream, jojoba and aloe vera. Other common ingredients are oils derived from a variety of fruits or vegetables like apricots, soybeans, olives, corn and sesame.

Beeswax is used in many hand and body lotions.
Beeswax is used in many hand and body lotions.

Herbalists might recommend beeswax for skin care or any number of medical purposes. A handful of studies in recent decades have added credence to this lipid/alcohol compound's generations-old use as a pain reliever and treatment for ulcers. It is also used as a complementary and alternative medicine to lower cholesterol, heal wounds topically, and even quell the effects of diarrhea. The only side effect that has been noted is how overuse orally could possibly lead to digestive disorders. Also, a small percentage of the population cannot use these products due to an allergy to honey.

Discussion Comments

julies

I have never gone out of my way to buy skin care products that have beeswax in them, although I have read how beneficial this product is. After reading this article, I am going to make an effort to start looking for beauty products with beeswax in them.

I like to use beeswax candles because they burn for a long time without leaving soot. They also have a clean, wonderful smell that just can't be beat.

andee

I am allergic to bee stings, but have never had any problem using any of the products they produce like honey and beeswax. I like to buy skin care products that have beeswax in them because of the natural moisturizing properties beeswax has. The beeswax seals in moisture so your skin stays soft and supple.

honeybees

We raise honeybees, so I have access to as much beeswax as I need. It is quite a laborious process extracting the honey, then melting and purifying the beeswax, but it is certainly worth the effort.

I like to make solid lotion bars using beeswax and a combination of almond oil, cocoa butter and shea butter. This works wonders on your skin and is especially beneficial in the winter when my skin has a tendency to get dry and cracked.

golf07

I like to make my own lip balm using beeswax, olive oil and a few drops of honey and vitamin E. This only costs me pennies to make, but is so much better than any other lip balm I have ever tried.

I don't have to apply it nearly as often, and my lips stay really soft and smooth. I also add some essential oils for flavoring. It costs me more for the tubes I put the lip balm in than the ingredients that go in them.

Once I started using my own lip balm made with beeswax, I have a hard time buying anything else. I have a neighbor who is a beekeeper, so fortunately I can buy my beeswax from him.

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    • The honey bee is the only species of bee that can make beeswax.
      By: artist_as
      The honey bee is the only species of bee that can make beeswax.
    • Beeswax could be used as lip balm.
      By: Nazzu
      Beeswax could be used as lip balm.
    • Beeswax is used in many hand and body lotions.
      By: Africa Studio
      Beeswax is used in many hand and body lotions.