Collagen gives skin that bouncy structure we associate with youth. Collagen levels in the skin decline naturally as we age, which is why it’s such a huge buzzword in skincare and nutrition. 16 Research shows that dragon’s blood, when applied externally to the skin, is a solution for redness and sensitive skin. Plant resins, such as dragon’s blood, help prevent moisture loss in the skin by creating a protective layer which helps seal in hydration.

Research related to dragon’s blood and cancer is in its early stages. There may be anti-tumor potential in dragon’s blood.By the end of the trial, those who had used the dragon’s blood cream experienced a far greater degree of healing than those who’d used the placebo. 5 Yi T, et al. (2011). Comparison of the chemicalprofiles and anti-platelet aggregation effects of two “Dragon’s Blood” drugsused in traditional Chinese medicine. DOI: Evidence of this is incomplete, however. It’s only pieced together through studies of different dragon’s blood sources, Daemonorops draco and Dracaena draco. It’s also not proven to be a property in all sources. Gupta D, et al. (2011). Bioprotective propertiesof Dragon’s blood resin: In vitro evaluation of antioxidant activity andantimicrobial activity. DOI: Sensitisationis a key factor in various skin concerns, including eczema, sunburn, acne and psoriasis. 17

Don’t rely on these approaches to replace doctor-recommended treatments for your topical ulcer. For digestive system health, diarrhea, cancer support, and as an antidiabeticVitamin E, similar to dragon blood benefits, fights off free radicals on the skin, which are a result of daily environmental stressors like unprotected sun exposure and air pollution. In fighting off free radicals, vitamin E helps protect the skin from damage and supports new skin cell growth and also acts as intense hydration for soft and nourished skin. Healthline has strict sourcing guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical associations. We avoid using tertiary references. You can learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our editorial policy. You’ll find everything from dragon’s blood serum, dragon’s blood moisturisers, dragon’s blood face masks and dragon’s blood sculpting gel. Summary Dragon’s blood is beloved by the skincare industry thanks to this plant resin’s purported ability to soothe, hydrate and plump up skin. It’s also thought to minimise redness and calm sensitiveskin.

It may seem strange that a bright red plant extract which was once used as a textile dye can actually help alleviate redness in the skin. 22 Aloe Vera has been used for thousands of years as its perhaps one of the most widely used herbal treatments for topical skin conditions. Aloe is known to be a natural moisturizer for its extremely hydrating properties and absorbs fast into the skin, even for oily and acne-prone skin. Another 2013 study showed antimicrobial effects, but this was only tested in vitro (inside a test tube or other vessel outside the body). This is not unlike a human’s own healing system which causes blood to clot around a wound, and scabs to form. One 2011 laboratory study considered dragon’s blood from Dracaena cinnabari to have substantial antimicrobial properties, enough to be considered a source of food preservative.Other varieties of ‘bleeding trees’ grow in the Canary Islands and have been recorded throughout history in India and China, too. 4 What is dragon’s blood in skincare?

In one study, a group of 60 people used either dragon’s blood cream or a placebo on a fresh wound for 20 days. For one, this medicinal plant resin has some antioxidant benefits. This means it may be able to scavenge free radicals that may possibly lead to cancer. Antioxidants are wonderful for skin health, as they help protect against UV damage and inflammation – two of the major wrinkle-causing skin enemies. 14 Dragon’s blood may help topical ulcers, but the research is not yet completely solid. Its topical benefit may be owed to its purported antimicrobial properties. But it’s certainly no replacement for doctor-recommended treatment approaches. Antimicrobial Dragon’s blood has been used for centuries as a healing extract, according to Carrie Lindsey, Eyebrow Specialist and Esthetician at Brooklyn’s niche beauty go-to, Shen Beauty. “I love dragon’s blood products for skin that has been compromised from over exfoliation, increased sun exposure or any inflammation that has disturbed the skin’s protective layer.” We compiled our favorite dragon’s blood products below!

Papaya Enzyme is naturally high in Vitamin A, B, and C which gives your skin elasticity and increases your collagen levels. Papaya is also naturally rich in Alpha-Hydroxyl Acids (AHAs) all of which are essential for glowing, healthy skin. Skin creams containing dragon’s blood have been dermatologically tested for tolerance and are far less concentrated than the pure version. This means they are less likely to cause reaction, although reactions are still possible.