3 Natural Ways to use Manuka Honey for Acne

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health and wellness

Manuka Honey has been used on skin for years and has become even more popular recently following the discovery of methylglyoxal (MGO) and hydrogen peroxide, two chemical compounds found in Manuka Honey. 

In ancient times honey was prized by humans as part of their skincare. Cleopatra has even been said to bathe in donkey milk and honey to preserve her soft skin and natural beauty. 

Why I love using Manuka Honey in my skincare routine

Manuka Honey is made up of sugars (glucose and fructose), amino acids, vitamins and minerals, hydrogen peroxide and MGO (methylglyoxal). MGO is the compound found in Manuka Honey, which determines its strength. Manuka Honey also has a low pH of between 3.2 and 4.5. It is a natural humectant, meaning that it attracts and preserves moisture, helping skin feel soft and look dewy.

Researchers reviewing medical-grade honey in a wound-care context have examined its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory activity in the laboratory — though this research relates to wound care, not cosmetic skin use.  

Here are three ways to bring Manuka Honey into your skincare ritual.

Manuka Honey Cleanser

  1. Put a small amount of Manuka Honey (½ tsp) in your hand.
  2. Add a few drops of water to dilute the mixture then apply directly onto your face.
    (Researchers reviewing medical-grade honey  have noted that when honey is diluted with water it can still retain antibacterial activity in the laboratory while its high sugar content is reduced.)
  3. Massage gently into your skin for 2 minutes.
  4. Rinse your face and pat dry with a clean towel.


 

Manuka Honey Mask

We recommend applying this mask straight after a shower or after you have cleansed your face to remove dirt and makeup.

  1. Using a clean makeup brush or clean fingers apply a generous amount (1 Tablespoon) of Manuka Honey to your face and down your neck. The layer should be reasonably thick and evenly spread.
    To preserve the remaining honey for food use you may want to take a small amount of honey out of the jar for this honey mask application.
  2. Leave for 30 minutes. It does run slightly down your face as your body temperature melts the honey. Put a towel below your neck on your chest and lie down. This is a really good chance to have time out of your busy life. Read a book, listen to music or a podcast or even sleep while our Manuka Honey works its magic.
  3. Remove with a warm face cloth.

 

Manuka Honey Spot Treatment

  1. Mix 1 tsp of Manuka Honey and turmeric together in a small bowl to form a sparkling, golden paste.
  2. Apply using either your finger, a makeup brush or a cotton bud on to the areas you'd like to care for. Ensure the utensil you use is clean - this is important.
  3. Leave on for 30 minutes to 1 hour.
  4. Wash off with a facecloth. Apply as part of your routine, around twice per week.


We recommend using Manuka Honey UMF™ 10+ or greater because it contains a higher strength of MGO. Higher UMF™ grades such as UMF™ 15+, UMF™ 20+ or UMF™ 24+ contain even more MGO — choose the grade that suits you. Make Manuka Honey part of your regular skincare ritual and enjoy taking that little bit of time for yourself.

woman-holding-umf-10+-manuka-honey

 

We would love to hear from you! 

 

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