As a skincare enthusiast, I have come across various products claiming to provide the best results for different skin types. However, in recent years, I’ve discovered the incredible benefits of Manuka honey for skincare, and it has become one of my go-to ingredients. Manuka honey is a powerful, natural remedy that is known for its antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties.
I have found that incorporating Manuka honey into my skincare routine has successfully addressed a range of concerns, from treating blemishes and acne to providing soothing hydration for dry skin.
In this article, I will be sharing my top five Manuka honey uses for skincare that have personally worked wonders for me, giving my skin a healthy and radiant glow. 🙂
So, What is Manuka Honey?
Manuka honey is a unique type of honey that originates from New Zealand.
It is derived from the nectar of the Manuka tree (Leptospermum scoparium), which gives it its distinct properties. Manuka honey contains natural substances like hydrogen peroxide and methylglyoxal (MGO), making it an excellent option for skincare applications.
I have discovered several benefits of Manuka honey for skincare, thanks to its anti-inflammatory and moisturizing properties.
These properties help with a range of skincare issues such as acne, redness, and even dermatitis. Besides, Manuka honey aids in tissue regeneration, which makes it an ideal ingredient in many skincare products MSN.
Manuka honey is beneficial for all skin types, including sensitive skin. Using Manuka honey-infused skincare products can help soothe sensitivity, reduce inflammation, and provide an overall calming effect.
Furthermore, it has been found to inhibit the growth of bacteria that contribute to skin disorders, making it a valuable addition to any skincare routine.
I have seen improvements in my skin’s overall health and appearance, while also enjoying the soothing, redness-reducing benefits of this amazing honey. So, here are my 5 best uses for Manuka honey in skincare.
5 Best Manuka Honey Uses for Skincare
In my journey to improve my skin health, I’ve discovered five incredible uses for Manuka honey that have revolutionized my skincare routine. I’ll be sharing them with you in the following subsections.
1: Natural Moisturizer
One of the most effective ways I’ve used Manuka honey for my skin is as a natural moisturizer. It contains powerful hydrating properties, making my skin feel soft and supple. I apply a thin layer of Manuka honey to my face, leave it on for 20 minutes, and then rinse it off with warm water. Since Manuka honey is a natural humectant, it helps my skin retain moisture, leaving it well-hydrated and glowing.
2: Acne Treatment
Manuka honey has helped me clear up my acne-prone skin. Its antibacterial properties combat acne-causing bacteria while nourishing the skin’s microbiome. I create a simple face mask by mixing Manuka honey with a few drops of tea tree oil and applying it to the affected areas.
After 15 minutes, I wash it off with warm water. This treatment has significantly reduced my acne breakouts and has made my complexion smoother overall.
3: Anti-Aging Remedy
I’ve found that Manuka honey works wonders in reducing the visible signs of aging on my skin.
Its antioxidants neutralize free radicals, protecting my skin from environmental damage and oxidative stress. I mix a tablespoon of Manuka honey with a teaspoon of cinnamon, apply it to my face as a mask, and wash it off after 20 minutes.
This remedy has improved my skin’s elasticity and has visually reduced fine lines and wrinkles.
4: Skin Infection Treatment
I’ve also been impressed by Manuka honey’s effectiveness in treating skin infections. Its antimicrobial properties help fight common skin issues like fungal infections and eczema.
Whenever I experience a flare-up, I apply a thin layer of Manuka honey to the affected area and let it absorb for 30 minutes before rinsing it off.
This has significantly reduced the redness and itchiness associated with my skin infections.
These usually hit me around Winter time.
5: Healing Wounds
Lastly, I’ve used Manuka honey to accelerate the healing process of minor cuts, burns, and scrapes.
Its natural wound-healing properties promote tissue regeneration, reducing the likelihood of scarring. I apply a small amount of Manuka honey directly to the wound, cover it with a bandage, and leave it on for a few hours or overnight.
This has noticeably sped up my skin’s healing process and minimized scarring.
Application Tips for Manuka Honey
As someone who loves incorporating natural ingredients into my skincare routine, I’ve learned a few handy tips for applying Manuka honey to get the most out of its benefits.
First, when using Manuka honey as a facial mask or spot treatment, I like to make sure my face is clean and dry before applying a thin layer of honey. This ensures that the honey can properly penetrate my skin and work its magic.
To avoid a sticky mess, I use a spatula or the back of a spoon to spread the honey evenly on my face, and I leave it on for about 20 minutes before rinsing it off with warm water.
For an exfoliating scrub, I mix Manuka honey with a gentle natural exfoliant, like brown sugar or oatmeal.
I apply this mixture to my face in circular motions, paying extra attention to areas with dry skin. I let the mixture sit for about 5 minutes to allow the honey to nourish my skin, and then rinse it off with warm water.
Manuka honey’s natural humectant properties make it a great addition to DIY face masks.
I like to mix it with other nourishing ingredients, like avocado or yogurt, to create a hydrating and soothing mask.
Depending on the ingredients, I leave the mask on for 15 to 20 minutes before rinsing it off. I would recommend you do small skin tests before trying any facials or skin care with Manuka honey
When using Manuka honey in combination with other skincare products, I make sure to layer them correctly.
Typically, I apply water-based products first, followed by the honey, and then seal everything in with an oil or moisturizer. This ensures that my skin benefits from all the products while still receiving the full effects of the Manuka honey.
Lastly, it’s important to remember that the potency of Manuka honey varies by its MGO levels.
When selecting a honey for skincare, I choose one with an MGO level of at least 250+, like New Zealand Honey Co. UMF 10+. This ensures I’m getting the most out of the Manuka honey’s beneficial properties for my skin.
If you really want the best Manuka honey for your skin then the UMF 20+ / MGO 829+ from New Zealand Honey Co. is the best. It’s pricey but worth it if you can afford it. It does come in a smaller 4.4oz jar which is good for skincare uses.
Precautions and Potential Irritations
While I’ve found Manuka honey to be an incredible skincare ingredient, it’s important to take some precautions and be aware of potential irritations.
Even though it’s generally safe for most people, there are individuals who might experience some side effects, particularly those with sensitive skin or an allergy to honey.
Before using Manuka honey on your skin, I recommend doing a patch test by applying a small amount on the inside of your arm and leaving it for 24 hours.
This will help you determine if it causes any irritation, redness, or itching. If you notice any adverse reactions, it’s best to avoid using Manuka honey on your face or other sensitive areas.
Also, it’s a good idea to avoid using Manuka honey on open or large wounds, as it may cause stinging or worsen the condition. If you intend to use it for wound healing, it’s best to consult with a healthcare professional first.
Another precaution I would suggest when incorporating Manuka honey into your skincare routine is to make sure you are using a Manuka honey product with an appropriate UMF or MGO rating for your needs.
Higher ratings indicate higher levels of antibacterial activity, but this may cause irritation in some people. So, starting with a lower rating and working your way up gradually can help you find the most suitable Manuka honey product for your skin type.
In summary, while Manuka honey can be a beneficial addition to your skincare regimen, it’s essential to take some precautions, such as performing a patch test and using products with suitable potency levels. By keeping these tips in mind, you can confidently use Manuka honey for its various skincare benefits without worrying too much about potential irritations.
Selecting the Right Manuka Honey
When choosing the perfect Manuka honey for my skincare needs, I consider a few essential factors. The first thing I look at is the rating system used to measure its potency and effectiveness. These are the Unique Manuka Factor (UMF) and Methylglyoxal (MGO) ratings.
While higher ratings indicate more potent healing properties, I try to find a balance that works for my skin and intended uses.
For instance, MGO 50+ Manuka Honey is excellent for moisturizing dry faces, and Naturopathica Manuka Honey Cleansing Balm is suitable for gentle cleansing.
Manuka honey is available in various forms for skincare products, such as balms, masks, and cleansers.
I consider the application methods and consistency when choosing Manuka honey for skincare.
For instance, if I want to create a homemade mask, a pure honey with a higher UMF or MGO rating would work best. If I am searching for an easy-to-apply cleanser or moisturizer, a balm or cream infused with Manuka honey might be more suitable.
Next, I take into account my skin type and any specific concerns, such as acne, dry skin, or eczema. Manuka honey has different effects on various skin conditions, so identifying the best product for my needs is crucial. For example, if I have eczema or dermatitis, I might look for products like Ulta that are specifically designed to address these concerns.
Finally, I am conscious of the product’s source and sustainability when selecting Manuka honey.
I choose brands that responsibly source their honey and are committed to preserving the environment and the native bees that produce Manuka honey.
Conclusion
In my experience, Manuka honey has proven to be a versatile and effective ingredient in various skincare products. I have discovered several uses for this amazing honey that have greatly improved my skin’s overall health and appearance.
Among the top uses I found are moisturizing dry faces, like the New Zealand Honey Co. UMF 10+ / MGO 263+, and gentle cleansing, such as with the Naturopathica Manuka Honey Cleansing Balm. Manuka honey also assisted in soothing eczema and dermatitis, as seen with the Ulta product.
Besides these uses, I found Manuka honey to be beneficial in wound healing, like with the First Honey Sterile Manuka Honey Ointment, and as an anti-wrinkle ingredient, such as in the Manuka Lane Anti-Wrinkle Manuka Honey Cream Serum.
To me, the benefits of Manuka honey for skincare are undeniable.
Incorporating Manuka honey into my skincare routine has been a game-changer, and I believe it can do wonders for anyone looking to improve their skin’s health and appearance.
Hope that helps. Let me know if you have questions in the comments below.
