Why You Need Manuka Honey In Your Skincare Routine
Honey has been applied topically for thousands of years to treat a myriad of skin ailments. Honey's medicinal powers range from antibacterial, antifungal, and antiviral qualities to having anti-inflammatory action. Honey is also packed with antioxidants which we know have systemic benefits. Interestingly, the actual chemical makeup of honey varies greatly depending on the botanicals that the bees pollinate. This is the variable that sets manuka honey apart from other honey varieties. The bees that produce manuka honey are native to New Zealand and pollinate the local Leptospermum scoparium tree. Manuka honey is different from other honeys for a few reasons. One of the most notable is that manuka honey contains methylglyoxal (MGO), which is derived from dihydroxyacetone in the manuka nectar. The concentration of MGO correlates to the strong antibacterial effect of manuka honey, which is regarded as much stronger than that of regular honey. The honey is also assigned something called a UMF (unique manuka factor) rating, which corresponds to the concentration of MGO and other important compounds inside. To be considered therapeutic grade, the honey should have a UMF rating of at least 10+.
So what does this all mean in terms of skincare? Put simply, the antibacterial effects of manuka honey make it an excellent anti acne ingredient and the anti inflammatory properties aid in calming eczema and irritated breakouts. Manuka honey is also a humectant (like hyaluronic acid), so it is extremely moisturizing.
The wound healing nature of manuka honey can not be ignored as either. It provides a protective barrier to enhance healing and is known to fade scars and hyperpigmentation. Dermatologists often recommend incorporating manuka honey into the skincare routines of people with sensitive, acne prone, and damaged skin for these reasons.
Our new Manuka Moisture Mask combines the highest grade manuka honey, thanaka (anti-fungal, anti-inflammatory and brightening tree bark from Myanmar), lactic acid, calendula extract, pumpkin seed oil, hyaluronic acid, aloe juice, vitamin E, and zinc to combat irritated skin and acne while preserving youth and providing hydration. These ingredients work together to increase the antibacterial, antifungal, and anti-inflammatory properties of the manuka honey, making it a skincare savior.