Why Dermatologists Are Obsessed with Royal Jelly—France’s Best-Kept Beauty Secret

These days, it feels like there’s always a new skincare ingredient being hailed as the ultimate miracle—promising youthful skin, a flawless complexion, and maybe even a little magic on the side. The latest buzz? Royal jelly.

While it’s only recently made its way into mainstream skincare products in some regions, royal jelly has been a staple in traditional medicine for centuries. In France, it’s long been valued both as a beauty enhancer and a daily wellness supplement.

For many, especially in French beauty culture, royal jelly is considered essential—almost like a daily dose of vitality. Iconic French skincare brands have been incorporating it into their formulas since the 1960s, hinting at its longstanding reputation for supporting radiant, youthful skin.

So, could royal jelly be the natural solution your skincare routine is missing?

Read on to discover the benefits of royal jelly for your skin—and explore some of the best products that feature this nutrient-rich ingredient.

Royal Jelly

Type of Ingredient: Hydrating agent

Key Benefits: Helps boost collagen production, supports wound healing, and reduces inflammation.

Who Should Use It: Generally suitable for most skin types, except for individuals who are pregnant, breastfeeding, or allergic to bees or bee-derived ingredients.

Recommended Usage: Can be applied up to twice a day.

Compatible With: Works well alongside more intensive skincare ingredients such as retinol and alpha hydroxy acids, as it is non-irritating and gentle on the skin.

Avoid Using With: There are no known negative interactions with other skincare ingredients.

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What Is Royal Jelly?

Royal jelly is a milky-white substance secreted by honeybees, produced in their throat glands. It’s used to nourish bee larvae during their early development, but it’s particularly vital for turning a regular larva into a queen bee. This transformation is attributed to a specific protein in royal jelly called royalactin.

Queen bees continue to consume royal jelly throughout their lives, which contributes to their enhanced fertility and significantly longer lifespan compared to worker bees. These striking differences have sparked interest in the potential benefits of royal jelly for human health and skin—though scientific evidence in humans remains limited.

While it may not work magic, royal jelly does have several skin-supporting properties worth considering.

Benefits of Royal Jelly for Skin

Rich in proteins, amino acids, vitamins, lipids, and minerals, royal jelly is packed with nutrients that can benefit the skin. It also contains bioactive compounds like peptides, flavonoids, fatty acids, and phenolic acids. Here’s what this powerhouse ingredient can offer:

• Deep Hydration and Improved Elasticity: Its high lipid content helps retain moisture in the skin’s outer layer, keeping it soft, plump, and elastic.

• Collagen Support: It includes an acid that stimulates the production of collagen-producing cells, helping to reduce the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and sagging.

• Anti-Inflammatory Effects: Royal jelly has shown promise in calming skin irritation and reducing symptoms like redness and itching.

• Wound and Acne Healing: Its antimicrobial properties may help fight bacteria and accelerate healing of acne, burns, ulcers, and other skin wounds.

• Brightens Skin: Certain acids in royal jelly are believed to help reduce hyperpigmentation and dark spots caused by acne or sun exposure.

• Oil Control: Some research suggests royal jelly may help regulate sebum production in oily or acne-prone skin, though more evidence is needed.

• Antioxidant Potential: Its phenolic content may help counteract free radical damage and slow signs of skin aging.

  
  

Forms and Usage

Royal jelly can be used topically in skincare products or ingested as a supplement. When taken orally, it’s believed to support skin health from within—similar to how collagen supplements work. Early studies have shown potential benefits for skin firmness, hormone balance, and overall wellness, but it’s best to consult a healthcare provider before adding royal jelly supplements to your routine.

Royal Jelly vs. Propolis

While both royal jelly and propolis are bee-derived ingredients used in skincare, they serve different roles in the hive. Royal jelly is a nutrient-rich secretion fed to larvae and queens, while propolis is a resinous mixture bees use to construct and protect their hives.

Propolis is created from a blend of bee saliva, beeswax, and tree resin. Like royal jelly, it’s packed with antioxidants and bioactive compounds and is known for its anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and wound-healing benefits. Though similar in their effects on skin, these two ingredients are distinct in origin and function.

Possible Side Effects

Royal jelly is generally considered safe for topical use, but not for everyone. Individuals with asthma, bee-related allergies, or sensitivities may experience reactions such as rashes or itching. Pregnant or breastfeeding individuals should also avoid using it. If you notice signs of irritation such as redness or warmth after use, discontinue immediately.

When in doubt, it’s wise to consult a dermatologist or medical professional before adding royal jelly to your skincare regimen.

Kaye's Beauty Book is here to help you choose better products that suit your skin, hair and lifestyle. All of the products mentioned are carefully researched and selected to ensure that the most credible information comes to you. If you do buy a product from one of our links, Kaye's Beauty Book may earn a commission.

II DISCLAIMER: Every skin is different, not everything works for everybody. I recommend you test the product before completely using any new product. II