Mānuka's Superpowers

Exploring the Differences Between Raw Manuka and Regular Raw Honey in Skincare

Nicole Gent

Published at: January 23, 2025
Updated at: January 23, 2025

8 minutes

Executive Summary:

Manuka honey (monofloral) and raw honey (multi-floral) are suitable for skin care applications but offer different benefits.
Regular raw honey is rich in vitamins and beneficial enzymes, while Manuka honey contains additional rare and unique nutrients like methylglyoxal (MGO) and antioxidants that offer added skincare support.
Manuka honey or raw honey can be used in many ways to enhance natural skin wellness—as a moisturizer, exfoliant, spot treatment, lip balm, or rejuvenating mask.

Raw Manuka vs. Regular Raw Honey: Unveiling Skincare Benefits

Did you know that honey has been used in skincare for over 4000 years? The Ancient Greeks, Romans, Egyptians, and East Indians used it to treat skin problems, treat wounds, embalm, and promote healthy, glowing skin. Today, honey is still a valuable ingredient in many skincare products.

Two varieties that are commonly used include raw Manuka honey and regular raw honey. Below, we explore the differences between these two types and discuss their unique properties and uses, particularly when it comes to skincare.

Differences in Origins and Production

In the following sections, we compare Manuka honey and raw honey’s origins and production processes. What sets these two apart?

Where Does Raw Manuka Honey Come From?

Raw Manuka honey is a unique honey produced in New Zealand, where the native Manuka tea tree (Leptospermum scoparium) thrives. While only blossoming for about six weeks a year, the nectar found inside its tiny white flowers has a unique nutrient profile—which sets it apart from other types of honey.

For the creation of Manuka honey, the honey bee colonies that produce this liquid gold must be placed in remote locations away from other floral sources and pesticides. This is because to produce true Manuka honey, it must be monofloral, meaning it only comes from the Manuka tea tree flower.

At Manukora, however, it’s not all about honey production. We are committed to ensuring our bee colonies thrive and that the honey we produce is as natural as possible. As such, we incorporate gentle harvesting and traditional beekeeping practices that guarantee the health of the bees and the quality of our Manuka honey. The raw, nutrient-dense honey that results has a consistently thick, creamy texture and boasts a rich caramel flavor profile—exactly as nature intended it!

How Is Regular Raw Honey Made?

Regular raw honey is produced all over the world. Essentially, it’s any honey removed from a hive without being processed—heat treated or diluted. As a result, it contains authentic nutrients and antioxidants. However, it can be filtered or unfiltered. Filtered honey has been strained to remove larger particles like wax or pollen, while unfiltered honey retains more of these natural elements, giving it a cloudier appearance and potentially higher nutrient content.

Raw honey is often produced from a wide variety of floral sources. Thus, it ranges in nutrient content and flavor. Yet, due to the wide range of floral sources available to the bees, ensuring raw honey is unaffected by pesticides isn’t always easy.

Key Differences in the Production

While both types of honey are unprocessed, the production of raw Manuka and regular raw honey differs in two significant ways:

Manuka honey is a monofloral honey made exclusively from the nectar of the Manuka tea tree. This singular source gives it a consistent quality, nutrient profile, and flavor. In contrast, raw honey is typically derived from various floral sources, resulting in a nutrient profile and flavor that can vary from batch to batch.
The strict standards for authentic Manuka honey ensure its quality, purity, and traceability. In comparison, typical raw honey is not subjected to the same level of testing, and its traceability is often limited or inconsistent.

Unique Properties Relevant to Skincare

When comparing raw Manuka honey and regular raw honey—both have unique properties that make them suitable for skin care. Read the sections below to learn more.

Manuka Honey for Skincare

Manuka honey has a unique nutrient profile, but one compound deserves special mention. Methylglyoxal (MGO) is a key nutrient abundant in Manuka honey. Known for its natural antibacterial properties, this nutrient, in particular, is why Manuka honey is renowned worldwide.

As a powerful natural humectant, Manuka honey draws moisture from the air into the skin, helping maintain hydration. This moisture-binding ability makes it particularly important for various skincare routines.

Manuka honey further contains unique antioxidants—like methyl syringate and leptosperin. These antioxidants support cellular health in the body and the body’s natural inflammatory response. These properties may help maintain the skin’s overall health and resilience.

With its thick yet creamy texture, Manuka honey is further easy to spread (and it stays in place!), making it well-suited for topical use in skincare routines.

Raw Honey for Skincare

Raw honey is rich in many beneficial nutrients, including natural enzymes, antioxidants, and vitamins—with its nutrient profile varying based on the floral sources it comes from. Because it is unprocessed, these beneficial nutrients remain intact in the final product, supporting skin health and maintaining its natural balance.

The texture of raw honey can range from thick to thin, depending on the floral sources and harvesting methods. For skincare applications, thicker raw honey is often preferred for its ease of application and staying power.

Manuka vs Raw Honey for Skin Care

Both Manuka and raw honey are excellent at drawing moisture to the skin, thanks to their naturally high sugar content. In fact, this characteristic makes them particularly beneficial for maintaining the skin’s moisture and hydration.

While raw honey offers a range of vitamins and enzymes, Manuka honey stands out for its unique nutrient profile—such as methylglyoxal (MGO) and rare antioxidants like leptosperin. Additionally, the consistent texture and quality assurance of Manuka honey provides an edge, making it a standout choice for skincare applications.

Manuka Honey Skincare Applications

Raw Manuka Honey is a versatile substance and can be incorporated into a regular skincare routine in many different ways. As previously mentioned, raw Manuka honey has excellent moisturizing properties. Their naturally high concentration of sugars means they behave as a humectant and draw water into the area.

For use in skin care, stick to honey that is thick and creamy—like Manuka honey. Its dense but smooth texture allows easy application, and its natural thickness clings to the skin, creating a thick barrier until it is rinsed off.

Manuka honey’s impressive nutrient profile and thick, creamy texture make it the perfect addition to DIY skincare formulations like creams and masks. While we’re a little biased, Manuka honey, in many cases, offers a better option!

Potential Benefits for Skin Health

Moisture is a vital element of skin health. Without proper moisture, our skin becomes flaky and dry—and often itchy or irritated. However, raw Manuka honey supports the skin’s natural barrier due to its natural moisturizing properties.

In addition to moisture, Manuka honey provides enzymes, nutrients, and antibacterial properties. Together, these compounds provide a nourishing and soothing environment for the general wellness of your skin.

While honey has been used for thousands of years in skincare, it’s important to note that individual results may vary. If you have pre-existing skin conditions or you’re unsure, consult with a skincare professional before using Manuka honey on your skin.

Considerations and Usage Tips

To get the most skincare benefits out of this natural product, here are a few last things you’ll want to consider:

Quality Matters

It is vital to select raw Manuka honey that is authentic and of high quality. Skin is sensitive and precious and deserves the best we can give it. Choose a brand that is proven, trustworthy, and consistent to receive maximum benefits—and peace of mind. Insist on high purity in your choice—honey free from additives and contaminants is ideal.

Patch Testing

Before you include Manuka honey—or any other new ingredient—in your skincare routine, do a patch test. Rub a small amount of the honey on a visible patch of skin, such as on the inside of your arm or wrist, and take note of any reaction or sensitivity. Do this before applying it to larger areas.

Application Methods

Honey is easy to apply and rinse off—which surprises some people. It can be used in many ways in your skincare routine. Here are a few:

Exfoliator: Manuka honey is a creamy blend of sugars, and its texture makes it the perfect facial scrub. Simply rub a teaspoon into your hands and gently massage it into your face in small circles. Leave it on for a few minutes (like a mask) and rinse it off.
Mask: Grind three tablespoons of oatmeal with one tablespoon of hot water in a blender. Let it cool, then mix in a tablespoon of honey to create a creamy mask (avoid your eye area). Apply and rinse off after 20 minutes. Another option is to forego the oatmeal and apply honey directly for a moisturizing boost.
Spot apply: Simply dab some honey on any blemishes or minor wounds and leave overnight.
Lip balm: Dry, cracked lips? Apply a layer of honey on your lips. Your only challenge will be to avoid licking them!

Try Manuka Honey for Your Skin Wellness Today!

Manuka honey and raw honey both support the natural barrier of the skin. However, the thick and creamy texture of Manuka honey is arguably perfect for skincare applications compared to the texture of raw honey, which differs depending on harvesting methods.

Both Manuka and raw honey contain beneficial nutrients like enzymes and vitamins. Still, Manuka honey contains additional compounds—like MGO and unique antioxidants—that provide extra antibacterial and anti-inflammatory support.

To learn more about Manukora’s Manuka honey and our excellent commitment to quality and purity, visit our website. Manuka honey is truly one-of-a-kind, and at Manukora, we understand the importance of preserving its natural integrity while delivering a product you can trust. Discover authentic Manuka honey and how it can support your wellness journey today!