Manuka honey has been used for its excellent health benefits for many years both as a dietary supplement and as a skincare treatment. There are many different types of honey with various beneficial elements but this particular form has the highest levels of healing properties. It has a special antibacterial property and is rich in antioxidants. Manuka honey skincare can rejuvenate, moisturise and nourish the skin when applied on the surface.
It is scientifically acknowledged that Manuka honey can help slow the signs of aging by supporting the skin's natural elasticity. Using natural skin care products with Manuka honey can encourage a brighter, more translucent complexion as it deeply nourishes and improves the texture of the skin.
We know that skin aging is caused by both chronological ageing (unpreventable) and photo aging (sun induced aging). The primary environmental factor that causes photo aging is UV irradiation from the sun. Upon exposure to sunlight, the activity of a group of enzymes called matrix metalloproteinases (MMP's) is up-regulated. This leads to the degradation of collagen in the skin. Collagen is a critical provider of strength and resilience to the skin, so when it breaks down, skin loses its firmness and wrinkles are formed.
Ongoing research indicates that plant derived phenolic compounds, such as those found in enriched levels in Manuka honey (Stephens et al, 2009)