Manuka Honey Benefits For Face
Natural beauty may seem relatively new (especially for those of us who grew up slathering our faces with things like Clearasil!), but for ages, natural was the only option. Over the centuries, natural beauty ingredients have stood the test of time: things like aloe vera, rose water, and, of course, honey. Among the types of honey, one in particular has gained star status for its powerful skincare benefits: manuka honey. I love manuka honey for so many reasons! Today I’m sharing some manuka honey benefits for the face, how this ingredient differs from regular honey, how to use it in your skincare routine, and why it may just become your new favorite skincare product!
Manuka Honey Benefits For The Face
Known for its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, manuka honey has quickly become a favorite skincare ingredient that can tackle quite a few issues. Whether you’re dealing with dry skin, sensitive skin, or persistent skin conditions, the benefits of manuka honey may be just what you need.
To truly appreciate the benefits of manuka honey, it helps to understand what makes this honey different from the kind you may drizzle over toast (though I do occasionally drizzle manuka honey on my toast!). Manuka honey is known for its high concentration of a compound called methylglyoxal (MGO)—a naturally occurring antibacterial compound that sets manuka honey apart.
You can definitely use manuka honey on its own, but it’s started to be incorporated into skincare products as well. And you can also DIY some manuka honey skincare, which I’ll get into below.
Let’s get into the nitty gritty to help you decide if a manuka honey product belongs in your skincare routine!
What Is Manuka Honey?
Manuka honey is a unique variety of honey that has tons of benefits. It has a darker, thicker consistency than regular honey, with a slightly bitter and earthy taste. Sometimes I even find it a bit textured with tiny crystallized honey bits.
This honey is rich in enzymes and boasts a high concentration of MGO, the active compound responsible for many of its therapeutic benefits. In skincare, manuka honey is used in everything from masks and spot treatments to manuka honey cleansing balm formulas, thanks to its soothing and purifying nature.
Authentic manuka honey is often labeled with a UMF (Unique Manuka Factor) rating, which indicates the purity and methylglyoxal MGO content. Higher ratings mean stronger antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, making it more beneficial for skin.
Where Is Manuka Honey From?
Manuka honey originates from bees that pollinate the manuka bush (Leptospermum scoparium), native to New Zealand and parts of Australia. The unique properties of the honey come from the nectar of the manuka flowers, which is why location is so important. Real manuka honey can’t come from anywhere else.
How Does Manuka Honey Differ From Regular Honey?
While all types of honey offer some antibacterial effects due to the presence of hydrogen peroxide, manuka honey contains the additional compound methylglyoxal (MGO) in a much higher concentration. This compound provides powerful antimicrobial activity, making manuka honey significantly more effective at fighting free radicals, reducing inflammation, and supporting the healing of skin conditions like acne, eczema, and rosacea.
Also, manuka honey has been shown to retain its effectiveness even when exposed to heat and light, unlike regular honey, which can degrade. This makes it a more reliable skincare ingredient in both DIY and professional skincare products.
What Are The Benefits Of Manuka Honey For The Face
Helps Soothe Sensitive Skin
One of the standout benefits of manuka honey is its ability to calm sensitive skin. Thanks to its anti-inflammatory properties, it helps reduce redness, irritation, and inflammation, making it ideal for conditions like rosacea or reactive skin.
Natural Acne Fighter
Its natural antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties help fight acne-causing bacteria without drying out the skin. Unlike harsh acne treatments, manuka honey keeps the skin barrier intact while minimizing breakouts. It has even been used in hospitals to control bacteria!
Deeply Moisturizes Dry Skin
Honey is a natural humectant, meaning it attracts moisture to the skin. Manuka honey goes a step further by helping to retain that hydration while also promoting healing. This makes it perfect for people with dry skin, flaking, or rough patches.
Gently Exfoliates Dead Skin Cells
Manuka honey contains natural enzymes that aid in gently sloughing off dead skin cells, helping to brighten the complexion and promote cell turnover—without the irritation that can come from traditional exfoliants.
Fights Free Radicals
Thanks to its potent antioxidant properties, manuka honey helps protect the skin from environmental stressors and free radicals, which can accelerate signs of aging. This makes it a great addition to an anti-aging skincare routine.
Supports Healing Of Skin Conditions
Because of its high methylglyoxal MGO content, manuka honey is effective in helping heal wounds, scars, and even chronic skin conditions like eczema and psoriasis. It promotes faster skin regeneration and soothes inflammation.
My Favorite Face Products With Manuka Honey
If you’re curious about trying manuka honey in your own skincare, these are some of my top picks that harness its skin-loving benefits:
1. Activist Manuka Honey Mask
- Why I love it: Pure, raw manuka honey in a tube — no fillers, no fuss. This high-grade honey (UMF 20+) can be used as a face mask or spot treatment.
- Use it as: A treatment mask 2–3 times per week.
- Best for: Anyone wanting the purest form of manuka honey skincare.
2. Naturopathica Manuka Honey Cleansing Balm
- Why I love it: A rich, creamy balm that melts into the skin, removing makeup while soothing dry skin and inflammation. It contains sustainably sourced manuka honey and calendula.
- Use it as: A gentle morning wash.
- Best for: Normal to dry and sensitive skin.
3. Agent Nateur Holi (Creme)
- Why I love it: This lightweight moisturizer delivers the goods without feeling heavy or greasy. Great for balancing all skin types, especially sensitive skin.
- Use it as: A moisturizer morning and/or night.
- Bonus: Like all Agent Nateur products this has a luxe feel.
4. Blüh Alchemy Vital Moisture Mask
- Why I love it: This mask has a lot of great ingredients with their own benefits and also includes manuka honey extract.
- Use it as: A mask 3+ times a week.
- Note: Great for dry skin or skin that just needs a little boost.
5. Mānuka Honey Lip Balm
- Why I love it: Avocado, Calendula, Pomegranate, and 850+ MGO Mānuka Honey treat your lips and make them silky smooth.
- Best for: Dry or night lip balm.
Honorable Mentions: Yina Recovery Lip Treatment & Activist Raw Manuka Honey jar (if the mask tube isn’t enough)
How To Use Manuka Honey On Your Face
Use as a Face Mask
Apply a thin layer of manuka honey directly to clean skin and let it sit for 15–20 minutes. Rinse with warm water. This can be done 2–3 times a week for glowing, hydrated skin.
Spot Treatment for Blemishes
Dab a small amount of manuka honey onto blemishes or inflamed areas and leave it on overnight. Its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties can help reduce redness and speed up healing.
Gentle Cleanser
Use manuka honey to gently remove makeup and impurities while nourishing your skin. This is especially helpful for sensitive skin or dry complexions.
Add to DIY Skincare Recipes
Mix manuka honey with ingredients like yogurt, oatmeal, or turmeric for a customized mask suited to your skin type. Just be sure to patch test first!
Boost Your Organic Skincare Routine
You can easily integrate manuka honey into your organic skincare routine as a natural, healing boost. Whether used on its own or in a beauty product, there are benefits for all skin types. The manuka honey benefits for your face go beyond most ingredients!
Read more about building your organic skincare routine here.
Should You Add Manuka Honey to Your Skincare Routine?
It’s hard to go wrong with a combination of antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties! Manuka honey stands out as a versatile and effective skincare ingredient. Whether you’re battling blemishes or managing sensitive skin, trying a manuka honey product may be just what your skincare routine needs. Not only does it work well for different skin types, but it’s easy to add in as a spot treatment or mask!
*Some affiliate links used. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
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