How honey extract reinforces the scalp’s natural immunity

It’s fairly safe to say that recent events haven’t been conducive to feelings of serenity and well-being. People all over the world have been subject to the uncertainty of the COVID-19 crisis, economically, physically, and psychologically. Stress manifests in many different ways, but a key (and visible) manifestation is in our hair. A stressed scalp is vulnerable to dryness, irritation, and brittleness, which impact our overall feelings of well-being. To counter these issues, consumers are turning to the natural world: calming, immune-reinforcing ingredients like honey extract are providing intriguing solutions to hair and scalp pathologies caused by stress. 

The link between stress and scalp and hair pathologies

Trichologists know there is an inextricable link between anxiety, stress, and disorders related to the scalp and hair. Common complaints are seborrheic dermatitis and dandruff. Both are part of the continuous spectrum of the same disease that affects the seborrheic areas of the body. Whereas dandruff is restricted to the scalp, seborrheic dermatitis can affect other parts of the body. Both involve itchy, scaly skin, and inflammation. 

There are various conditions that can contribute to these pathologies, including genetics, harsh weather, pollution, and hormones. In some cases, species of Malassezia fungi can exacerbate the condition (Rudramurthy et al, 2014). However, it is widely accepted that an episode of dandruff and seborrheic dermatitis are brought on by stress or anxiety (Misery et al, 2007).

Consumers want products that promote well-being

We touched on the issue above – it’s certain that the coronavirus crisis has made people feel stressed. According to Mintel, 56% of Spanish consumers said they felt very anxious that the outbreak was going to negatively affect their life. Therefore, the 4% growth in the number of product launches mentioning stress-relief or sleep-aiding properties is perhaps unsurprising. Equally, the same proportion of Spanish respondents said they felt ‘extremely worried’ about being exposed to the virus. 

In light of these anxieties (not to mention the notorious issue of unkempt, distressed ‘lockdown hair’) consumers are on the hunt for hair care that reinforces the immune system. The popularity of products with immune-supporting claims, like those containing vitamin C, D, and minerals like zinc has been creeping up lately – and post-pandemic, this demand is set to explode (Mintel, 2020). 

The immunizing effects of honey extract

An ingredient that addresses these key consumer concerns is honey extract. With properties that support immunity, honey is scientifically proven to reduce the legions caused by stress-related scalp pathologies like seborrheic dermatitis and dandruff. Furthermore, it has been proven to diminish hair loss by improving the quality of the skin surrounding the root of the hair shaft. This is because the antibacterial, antifungal, and antioxidant properties of honey extract calm and moisturize the scalp, making the hair stronger and healthier. 

Provital harnessed the natural power of honey extract in the active Apissence Eco. Not only does the product heal and protect the scalp, but it also leaves hair hydrated and shiny. Furthermore, the formula meets consumer demand for natural, gentle personal care products as it’s COSMOS-certified organic.

Care and protect with nature

It’s common that the effects of stress will manifest in our skin and our hair. The last few months have been tough, and as the coronavirus pandemic continues, consumers want products that protect. Honey extract meets the demand for natural hair care that combat pathologies caused by stress and support immunity. Nature is powerful, and as we make tentative progress towards the end of the epidemic, we need to harness this power to care, de-stress, and heal.