First of all what is acne?

Acne is associated with or said to be the scourge of teenagers, but can occur into the 30’s and 40’s. it is linked with an increase in levels of testosterone. Unlike normal spots or pimples acne spots form in clusters or carpets, in areas with high densities of sebaceous glands. Usually found on the back or the face. The spots that form are often raised, red and may have a pustular centre. There may also be a high density of blackheads in the area.

The pustules form when the sebaceous gland becomes blocked and bacterial growth occurs. Unlike the odd spot or pimple acne spots often result in large scars or craters, and the remaining skin may remain reddened for some years after the disappearance of the spots.

Usual treatments can include:

Benzoyl peroxide used to treat mild and moderate acne due to its effectiveness and mild side-effects, which can be an irritant dermatitis.

Antibiotics maybe used for more severe cases, however, they are becoming less effective.

In females, acne can be improved with hormonal treatments. The common combined oestrogen/progestogen methods of hormonal contraception have some effect.

Topical retinoids help normalize the follicle cell life cycle. They can cause significant irritation of the skin.

Oral retinoids can be effective for acne that does not improve with other treatments. There are a number of possible adverse effects including: dry skin, nose bleeds, muscle pains, increased liver enzymes, and increased lipid levels in the blood. Use during pregnancy may cause abnormalities in the baby. Psychiatric side effects such as depression and suicide may also occur.

As can be seen from the list of traditional treatments above they can have some rather surprising and nasty side effects. Not surprisingly many look to alternatives that have fewer, if any side effects but are also effective in their treatment.

Why use honey?

Honey has been used by civilisations for thousands of years to treat wounds and other ailments. This is due to its healing properties.

Manuka Honey does the same and more, it is the super hero of the honey world.

Manuka honey is only found in New Zealand it is made when bees collect the nectar of the Manuka bush. It has incredibly nutrient rich, antibacterial, antimicrobial, and antifungal properties.

Usually associated with being taken internally Manuka honey can also be used directly on the skin as a facial mask.

It then has a number of useful properties:

•It draws the moisture out of bacteria in an affected area, essentially killing it.

•It can prevent future breakouts by drawing impurities out of the pores.

•It’s an anti-irritant.

•It nurtures, protects, and moisturizes the skin. Quickening healing of pigmentation red marks caused by spots.

Manuka honey has rating systems known as:

UMF (unique manuka factor),

OMA (organic manuka active),

MGO, which let you know how useful it is for your acne fighting and medicinal needs.

Not all manuka honey contains antibacterial properties., The UMF, OMA, or MGO is the most reliable way to know how good the honey really is.

Make sure the Manuka Honey you buy has:

1. It says UMF, MGO, or OMA clearly on the front of the jar

2. It says “Active” on it

3. It is packed into jars and labelled in New Zealand

4. it’s from a New Zealand company that is licensed to use the name UMF (which is actually a trademarked name), OMA, or MGO

5. It has the UMF, OMA, or MGO licensee’s name on the front label

6. It has at least a rating of UMF or OMA 15+ or more, or if it is MGO, then at least 250.

In summary Manuka honey is the ‘must have’ cupboard item. Not only does it taste good on toast but it can assist with a number of health issues. You can use Manuka Honey in a number of ways: manuka honey acne cream, manuka honey acne treatment, and don’t forget that manuka honey can help reduce the appearance of acne scars.