Propolis and Beeswax in Cosmetics: A Market Survey and Literature Review on Their Relationship and Role in Allergic Contact Dermatitis

Based on the available evidence, propolis is not or only rarely used in conventional cosmetics on the European market and is therefore unlikely to be a relevant exposure source for patients with positive patch tests to propolis. Reactions to beeswax in propolis-sensitised individuals from residual propolis cannot be fully excluded but appear uncommon and mainly involve allergic contact cheilitis from lip balms. Within the scope of the present data, patients with positive patch tests to propolis do not need to avoid all cosmetics containing beeswax.