Using bee products for our cosmetic procedures is nothing new. Centuries before us, our ancestors in Ancient Egypt were using honey and beeswax to soften their skin and protect their complexions. In fact, the famous beauty Cleopatra is rumored to have bathed in milk and honey before going to bed with gold on her face. Dermatologists nowdays, however, are hoping to outdo our ancestors, looking to bee venom as the new hottest skin care product to keep us looking young and vibrant.
There’s been a lot of buzz (sorry) about bee venom masks in the media recently as members of the British Royal Family have admitted to using them. People immediately jumped on board, eager to share the beauty secrets of royalty. But does it work? While there is some debate, many dermatologists claim that bee venom can increase blood circulation to the skin as well as stimulate the body to produce collagen and elastin. All of this helps to plump skin up and reduce the appearance of lines and wrinkles without the use of Botox or other synthetic substances.
The bee venom is applied topically, as a cream, mask, balm or serum. Most of these products include honey for its soothing and anti-inflammatory properties, helping to reduce possible redness that comes from the bee venom. And best of all, the treatment doesn’t sting like a bee sting would!