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What Is Propolis Shampoo?

Rachael Cullins
Rachael Cullins

Propolis shampoo is a hair-care product that includes a natural substance found in tree resin, often harvested by honeybees. The propolis ingredient is meant to make hair shinier and stronger. It is also used in other commercial products for its sealant and textural properties.

Honeybees use propolis, found in tree sap and also other plant sources, to fill small holes in their honeycomb. They use beewax to fill larger gaps. Natural propolis is brown and has a sticky texture. There are likely many reasons why bees use propolis on their hives, including keeping out bacteria, strengthening the structure, and protecting it against the elements. Many types of trees and plants produce propolis, including cedar trees, fir trees, sunflowers, and spices such as dill and fennel.

Propolis is naturally secreted by bees.
Propolis is naturally secreted by bees.

Hair-care manufacturers have harnessed the properties of this resin to create propolis shampoo. Similar to how propolis is effective for strengthening a bee hive, it can protect and strengthen the hair as well. It has antibacterial properties that many find effective for treating scalp infections. It can help remove build-up from other hair-care products and is good for decreasing oil in hair that is naturally greasy and for treating dandruff.

Sunflowers produce propolis.
Sunflowers produce propolis.

Many claim that propolis shampoo helps hair grow faster and prevents hair loss. Honey is often infused with the shampoo, helping to increase hair's fullness and shine. Those who prefer to use chemical-free products often turn to propolis shampoo, which is largely based on natural ingredients. Various propolis shampoo types and formulas exist, some for specialty uses, such as maintaining the color of dyed hair.

Propolis shampoo is typically more expensive than regular, drugstore-purchased shampoo.
Propolis shampoo is typically more expensive than regular, drugstore-purchased shampoo.

Propolis shampoo is typically more expensive than regular, drugstore-purchased shampoo. Users are able to use less of the shampoo per wash, allowing a bottle of propolis shampoo to often last longer than regular shampoo. The shampoo can be difficult to find at regular stores, but it is sold in some beauty shops and can easily be found through numerous online retailers. Propolis is also included in some conditioners.

Shampoo is far from the only commercial product that contains propolis. The resin can be found in wood varnishes, especially those used on musical instruments. It can be found in some foods, including chewing gum, and in car wax. In the wax, propolis is often combined with other shine- and strength-enhancing oils to give a vehicle maximum sheen. Propolis becomes hard when kept in cold temperatures but is otherwise chewy and soft.

Discussion Comments

anon954722

@fBoyle: I use Proposoothe Shampoo. It contains oatmeal as well, which has really helped with my dandruff. It is a little pricey, but they are big bottles that last me a long time.

ysmina

@literally45-- I completely agree with you. Propolis shampoo might be too pricey for people with normal, healthy hair. But it's definitely worth it for the rest of us dealing with scalp and hair problems.

I too was recommended propolis shampoo, I suffer from hair loss and I have fine, dull hair. This shampoo has made a huge difference for me. My hair loss has decreased and my hair is looking a little bit better every week.

Propolis shampoo is not easy to find, I can only get it at one store locally. I am actually stocking on it so that I never run out!

literally45

@fBoyle-- I'm not sure but I don't that the propolis used in shampoos will expire quickly.

I get my propolis shampoo online. It was recommended to me by my hair stylist because I have a sensitive scalp with dandruff. My propolis shampoo is all natural and contains other great ingredients like oatmeal.

I highly recommend propolis shampoo if you have a sensitive scalp and if you can't use most shampoos because they are irritating. It does cost more than typical shampoo but I think it's worth it for the benefits.

fBoyle

I know that propolis is a sensitive substance. It has to be used quickly for it to be effective. That's why propolis supplements are kept refrigerated. Is this an issue with propolis shampoo?

And where can I get this type of shampoo? I checked a few local stores but could not find it. It seems like a rare product.

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    • Propolis is naturally secreted by bees.
      By: artist_as
      Propolis is naturally secreted by bees.
    • Sunflowers produce propolis.
      By: Smileus
      Sunflowers produce propolis.
    • Propolis shampoo is typically more expensive than regular, drugstore-purchased shampoo.
      By: Africa Studio
      Propolis shampoo is typically more expensive than regular, drugstore-purchased shampoo.