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Ingredient · INCI reference

Royal Jelly Extract

Royal jelly extract is a processed extract of honeybee royal jelly used in cosmetics as a skin-conditioning and emollient additive.

What it is

Royal jelly extract is prepared by extracting the protein-, amino-acid-, and vitamin-rich secretion that honeybees produce, often into a water or glycol carrier for easier formulation. It is used to impart conditioning and moisturizing character to skincare products. In sunscreens it functions as a supporting additive rather than a UV filter.

Safety & warnings

Like royal jelly itself, the extract can act as a sensitizer for some individuals and has been linked to allergic reactions, especially in people allergic to bee products; caution is advised for those with bee or pollen allergies. It is animal-derived and not vegan.

Origin & sourcing

Derived from royal jelly, a glandular secretion of worker honeybees (Apis mellifera), processed into an extract; being bee-derived, it is not suitable for vegan formulations.

Questions everyone asks

How is royal jelly extract different from royal jelly?

It is royal jelly that has been processed into an extract, often in a water or glycol carrier, which makes it easier to incorporate into formulations.

Is royal jelly extract vegan?

No. It is derived from a honeybee secretion, so it is an animal-sourced ingredient and not suitable for vegan products.

Sources & references

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