Manuka Honey Acne Treatment | Does it Work?

Acne or pimples, zits, spots or blemishes are an infection of the skin. (very simplistically explained) Dermal oils, called sebum, and dead skin cells block the pores and hair follicles thus allowing bacteria to thrive. Sometimes, not in all cases, inflammation will occur which results in red pimples.

Research shows Manuka honey is extremely effective in treating all kinds of skin conditions. But can its high antibacterial activity treat acne effectively? First let's take a look at what science can tell us about the efficacy of a Manuka honey acne treatment. As far as I know there haven't been done any studies or clinical trials on the topical use of (Manuka) honey on Acne vulgaris. Scientists are, however, interested in its possible action. The fact that the Waikato Honey Research Unit mentions one of its current research interests, "Trials of honey to treat acne", on their website illustrates this.

What do acne sufferers say? When we take a look at the acne.org forums we'll read many positive experiences. Reoccurring remarks in the threads are 'makes skin softer, brighter and takes away redness'. So it seems to help (some) people treating their acne. No hard proof here, just an indication it might work.

Another indication has to do with the fact that Manuka honey comes from bees who gather nectar on the Tea Tree. There have been done studies on the topical use of 5% Tea Tree oil compared with topical application of 5% benzoyl, which is a commonly accepted acne treatment product. Conclusion of these studies: both reduced acne, however the tea tree oil action was slower but this could have been caused by not using an optimal concentration. Tea tree oil also showed less side effects than benzoyl peroxide. This is by far no evidence but it might be an (indirect) indication Manuka honey could work. Source: page 2 of Therapeutic Properties of Tea Trea Oils.

In case researchers are able to proof this treatment works there is also another advantage; (next to little to no side effects) Bacteria associated with acne are becoming resistant to treatment with certain antibiotics whereas Manuka honey does not.

Manuka honey also effective in Acne Treatment

Active Manuka honey seems to be an effective natural remedy in acne treatment. It is known to fade red marks and improve the skin. Some chemical acne products seem to do more harm than good. They can really damage skin but the natural product known for its healing, moisturizing antibacterial properties does not have these side effects.

The experiences of people suffering from acne are promising. This particular example of someone applying Manuka honey topically on his whole face before going to sleep is such an example.

I am actually quite pleased with the results seen in just one day. My skin has stopped "oozing" and most of the bumps kinda resided overnight! Utterly surprising!

My red marks are noticeably getting better and there are only a few active spots around my forehead and cheeks. The swellings have drastically reduced in size and I think they should be flattened out by the end of this week. So far so good, extremely thrilled about it...
Read more of this guy's experiences on acne.org

The only downside is the stickiness of honey. Dedicated acne creams based on Manuka honey might be a better solution. But fact is Manuka honey can help getting rid of acne.