Honey Extract is a natural humectant produced by bees that has been used in skincare for millennia. Contains glucose oxidase which produces low levels of hydrogen peroxide (antimicrobial), along with flavonoids, organic acids, and enzymes. It draws moisture from the air into skin, provides gentle antimicrobial action against acne-causing bacteria, and soothes inflammation. Manuka honey (from Leptospermum) has the highest documented antimicrobial activity.
Key Skin Benefits
+ Natural humectant — draws moisture into skin
+ Gentle antimicrobial via hydrogen peroxide production
+ Rich in flavonoids and antioxidants
+ Soothes inflammation and irritated skin
+ Promotes wound healing — clinically documented
Pros
+ + Natural humectant with centuries of use
+ + Antimicrobial — effective against P. acnes
+ + Antioxidant flavonoids
+ + Wound healing properties
+ + Various grades available (Manuka, clover, etc.)
Cons
− − Can be sticky in high concentrations
− − Bee allergen
− − Antimicrobial activity varies by honey type
− − May contain pollen allergens
Specifications
Property
Value
Usage Areas
Face, Body, Hair
Product Type
Leave-On, Rinse-Off
Source
Honeybee (Apis mellifera)
Natural Level
Natural
Safety Ratings
Metric
Rating
Skin Sensitivity
2/5
Comedogenic Rating
0/5
EWG Score
1/10
Regional Regulatory Limits
Region
Leave-on %
Rinse-off %
Status
EU (CosIng)
No limit
No limit
Allowed
US (CIR/FDA)
No limit
No limit
Allowed
Japan (MHLW)
No limit
No limit
Allowed
ASEAN
No limit
No limit
Allowed
China (NMPA)
No limit
No limit
Allowed
Typical Usage % by Product Type
Product Type
Typical %
Mask / Wash-off
5 - 30%
Moisturizer
1 - 10%
Cleanser
5 - 15%
References
Molan PC — The role of honey in wound management. J Wound Care (1999). PMID: 10808853
Alvarez-Suarez JM et al. — Honey and skin health. J Med Food (2013). PMID: 23838141
Mandal MD, Mandal S — Honey: antimicrobial activity. Asian Pac J Trop Med (2011). PMID: 21771473