Secretion of worker-bee pharyngeal glands, fed to larvae and the queen. Contains proteins, peptides (notably royalactin 10H2DA), B-vitamins, and minerals. Used in Asian and French cosmetics as an anti-age and regenerative ingredient. High allergenic potential – direct cross-reactivity with bee sting and bee product allergy.
Topical application
DVery weak or conflicting data.
Topical clinical data are limited. Laboratory studies show collagen-synthesis stimulation and antioxidant activity. Clinically meaningful effects on skin ageing versus retinol or vitamin C are not established. Allergenic potential is high.
Royal jelly extract (Apis Mellifera Royal Jelly) is the secretion of worker-bee pharyngeal glands used to feed larvae and the queen bee. A complex mix: 60-70% water, 12-15% proteins (main one – royalactin MRJP1), 10-16% sugars, 3-6% lipids (10-hydroxy-2-decenoic acid, 10H2DA, the quality marker), B-vitamins, minerals. Where applied. Premium anti-aging cosmetics (0.1-3%), regenerative creams, mature-skin products, recovery masks. Strongly present in French cosmetics (Guerlain Abeille Royale – flagship), in Asian lines. In Spain appears in premium and niche brands. Evidence base. In vitro shows antioxidant activity, stimulation of collagen synthesis in fibroblast cultures, anti-inflammatory effect. Park 2012 in keratinocyte cultures showed proliferation stimulation. Few topical clinical RCTs in humans; marketing runs far ahead of evidence. Safety. CIR confirmed cosmetic royal jelly safety (Final Report 2009). Systemically (oral intake) royal jelly causes rare but severe allergic reactions – including anaphylaxis. Fatal cases recorded in people allergic to bees and bee products (FDA Adverse Event Reports). Topical reactions are rarer, but direct cross-reactivity with bee allergy exists. A patch test is mandatory in people with bee sting, honey, or propolis reaction history. Activity controversy. Most of the 'effect' of royal jelly in commercial formulas is marketing. The actual concentration of active components (10H2DA, royalactin) in finished creams is often symbolic. Quality control by 10H2DA is documented only in premium lines. Pregnancy and lactation – use with caution. The allergic potential does not allow a full 'safe' label. With bee sting, honey, or propolis allergy – strict contraindication. Without it – no formal restrictions, but it is safer to choose alternatives (peptides, niacinamide).
Irritation potential
LowAllergen risk
HighPregnancy
CautionThe Evigrade extension adds an evidence panel to Wildberries, Goldapple, Letu, iHerb, Sephora and 12 more stores. This ingredient and every other one in the product show evidence-tier, allergen risk and pregnancy/lactation flags at a glance.
Royal Jelly Extract should be used with caution during pregnancy. Consulting a dermatologist or OB-GYN is advisable.
Royal Jelly Extract suits: normal, dry, combination. Use with caution in: sensitive.
Royal Jelly Extract has high allergen potential. Perform a patch test on the inner forearm 24 hours before facial application.
Secretion of worker-bee pharyngeal glands, fed to larvae and the queen.
The INCI name is Royal Jelly Extract. It may also appear as: Royal Jelly, Экстракт маточного молочка, Маточное молочко.
Published: · updated:
Suitable for
Use with caution