How to Use Manuka Honey in Your Skincare Routine

In the quest for natural skincare solutions, attention often turns to Mother Nature’s medicine cabinet, where honey, especially Manuka Honey, holds a place of honor. The potential of this golden elixir reaches beyond sweetening tea and soothing sore throats. Research increasingly suggests that it offers a host of skin benefits, from reducing inflammation to boosting collagen production. In this blog, we’ll explore Manuka Honey’s benefits, delve into how it affects your skin, share ideas for trying it in your skincare routine, discuss safety precautions, and wrap up our conclusion on Manuka Honey’s place in natural skincare.

manuka honey for skin

Produced by honeybees that feast on the nectar of the New Zealand Manuka bush, Manuka honey is not just another type of honey. It’s a supercharged variant exhibiting impressive antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. The magic behind its therapeutic effects is attributed to the high Methylglyoxal (MGO) content and other essential components.

Manuka honey’s value is often gauged using the Unique Manuka Factor (UMF) rating, which quantifies its antibacterial potency—UMF™ 10+ or higher signifies superior-grade honey. As such, for effective treatments, Manuka honey with UMF™ 15+, UMF™ 20+, or UMF™ 24+ ratings may offer more substantial results.

Examining Manuka Honey’s Role in Skincare

Now comes the fascinating question—how does Manuka honey interact with our skin, and why is it beneficial?

Firstly, the honey’s soothing anti-inflammatory properties may reduce skin irritation while potentially aiding in healing acne. Thanks to its antimicrobial effect, it could hinder Propionibacterium acnes, a bacterium linked to acne development. Additionally, its low pH might help accelerate the healing process.

Antioxidant-rich Manuka Honey can aid wound repair by lending support to skin cell renewal. It also appears to promote collagen growth, a key to maintaining youthful, firm skin. Furthermore, the hydrating potential of Manuka honey makes it an excellent emollient, helping your skin retain its natural moisture.


For those bothered by the chronic skin disorder rosacea or pimple outbreaks, Manuka honey can be a potential remedy, thanks to its ability to suppress numerous bacterial species, including antibiotic-resistant strains.

Trying Out Manuka Honey at Home

Manuka honey can be integrated into your skincare routine in several ways— as a cleanser, a moisturizing mask, or a spot treatment for pimples.

Here’s how:

Facial Cleanser:

  1. Mix a pea-sized amount of Manuka honey with a few drops of water.
  2. Apply the diluted mixture directly to your face.
  3. Gently massage the mixture into your skin for 3 minutes.
  4. Rinse your face and pat dry with a clean towel.

Face Mask:

  1. Apply one or two teaspoons of Manuka honey to your face and neck, using a clean makeup brush or your fingers.
  2. To avoid contamination, take a small amount out of the jar for the mask application.
  3. Leave the honey mask on for 30 minutes.
  4. Lie down and place a towel under your neck to relax and catch any honey dripping.
  5. Remove the mask with a warm face cloth.

Spot Treatment:


  1. Mix one teaspoon of Manuka honey with turmeric to create a golden paste.
  2. Apply the paste to affected areas using clean fingers, a makeup brush, or a cotton swab.
  3. Leave the spot treatment on for 30 minutes to 45 minutes.
  4. Wash off the treatment with a face cloth.

For optimal results, use the spot treatment at least twice per week.

Potential Concerns and Safety Precautions

There are some potential issues to consider before incorporating Manuka honey into your skincare routine:

Allergic reactions: A spot test should be performed to ensure there are no adverse reactions. If no signs of an allergic reaction are present within 24 hours, Manuka honey is considered safe to use.

Research: The effectiveness of Manuka honey in treating acne, though promising, demands further research. Still, it may offer a safe, natural alternative to more aggressive treatments such as laser therapy or oral antibiotics.

Moreover, ensure you’re using authentic Manuka honey, ideally produced and packaged in New Zealand, to reap the maximum benefits.

Final Thoughts

Manuka honey has demonstrated potential as a natural skincare solution. With its antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and wound-healing properties, it can play a central role in addressing various skin concerns, including acne, scars, and burns. Whether you use it as a cleanser, face mask, or spot treatment, incorporating Manuka honey into your skincare routine may lead to visible improvements. Just remember to exercise caution and perform a spot test to ensure your skin’s safety and compatibility with the honey. If you’re looking for a natural skincare solution, consider giving Manuka honey a try!


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