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Propolis — Skincare Ingredient

Soothing

Propolis

Antibacterial against acne-causing bacteria

AntibacterialSoothingAntioxidant
Goodie with caveat
Strong active, may irritate sensitive skin.
✓ Pregnancy Safe ✗ Animal-derived ✓ Cruelty-Free ✓ Reef-Safe
01

What is Propolis?

Resinous compound bees produce to seal hives — naturally antibacterial and anti-inflammatory.

02

What Propolis Does

  • Antibacterial against acne-causing bacteria
  • Antioxidant defense
  • Skin-soothing for sensitive types
  • K-beauty signature ingredient (Beauty of Joseon, COSRX use it)
03

Skin Type Compatibility

How well Propolis works for each skin type:

Dry Skin
Excellent (5/5)
Oily Skin
Excellent (5/5)
Combination
Excellent (5/5)
Sensitive
Excellent (5/5)
Acne-Prone
Excellent (5/5)
Mature
Excellent (5/5)
04

How to Use Propolis

Effective from 1% extract. PATCH TEST — bee-allergic users may react. Pregnancy-safe in topical use.
07

Propolis in Our Catalog

Found in
247
products containing Propolis — mostly in toner, serum.
Top brands using it
  • COSRX16
  • VT Cosmetics14
  • Pyunkang Yul8
  • Some By Mi8
  • innisfree7
08

Browse Products with Propolis

09

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Propolis?

Resinous compound bees produce to seal hives — naturally antibacterial and anti-inflammatory.

What does Propolis do for skin?

Antibacterial against acne-causing bacteria Antioxidant defense Skin-soothing for sensitive types K-beauty signature ingredient (Beauty of Joseon, COSRX use it)

Is Propolis safe during pregnancy?

Yes — Propolis is generally considered safe to use during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

What skin types is Propolis good for?

Propolis works well for Acne-prone, Sensitive skin, Compromised barrier.

How do I use Propolis?

Effective from 1% extract. PATCH TEST — bee-allergic users may react. Pregnancy-safe in topical use.

What is the comedogenic rating of Propolis?

Propolis has a comedogenic rating of 0/5 — non-comedogenic, safe for acne-prone skin.

What is the irritation potential of Propolis?

Propolis has an irritation risk score of 2/5 — low, usually well-tolerated.

10

Related Ingredients

Often used together with or similar to Propolis:

Last updated: 2026-05-25 Reviewed by: Skincarisma Editorial Team
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