Honey Extract
Natural honey extract. Contains sugars, trace amino acids, hydrogen peroxide, and flavonoids. Moisturising effect comes from its high sugar-humectant content. Mild antibacterial activity from hydrogen peroxide and low pH. Used in moisturising masks and lip balms. Moderate allergenic potential – possible reactions in patients with bee-product allergy.
Evidence by route
Topical application
Medical-grade Manuka honey has established use in chronic wounds and burns (Cochrane Review). Cosmetic use in creams and masks provides moisturising effects from sugars, but no clinically meaningful anti-age or brightening effect has been demonstrated.
- Jull AB et al. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2015;(3):CD005083. PMID 25742878
How to read tiers A–F
- BLimited evidence. One RCT or several controlled studies with limitations
Tolerability and safety
- Irritation potential
- Low
- Allergen risk
- Moderate
- Pregnancy
- Safe
- Suitable for
- Normal, Dry, Combination, Sensitive
About this ingredient
Honey extract (Mel Extract) is a natural bee honey extract, sometimes as a glycol or water extract without stickiness. Composition. Sugars (fructose, glucose), flavonoids (pinocembrin, chrysin, galangin), organic acids, hydrogen peroxide, trace amino acids, melatonin. Where applied. Moisturizing masks and creams, lip balms, products for problem skin and medical wounds ("medical honey" Manuka). In Spain – Apivita (Greek bee-product brand), Nuxe, Tata Harper. Evidence base. Cochrane Review 2015 (Jull) in wounds and burns: topical honey accelerates healing of partial-thickness burns and post-op wounds. Facial data on post-acne marks and hyperpigmentation are sparser; Burlando 2013 showed anti-inflammatory and antibacterial effect. Safety. CIR confirmed safety. Allergic risk medium (MEDIUM) – patients allergic to bee products may react, including anaphylactic reactions. Pregnancy and lactation – safe topically.
Frequently asked questions
Is Honey Extract safe during pregnancy?
Honey Extract is considered safe during pregnancy at typical cosmetic concentrations. Systemic absorption through the skin is minimal.
What skin types is Honey Extract for?
Honey Extract suits: normal, dry, combination, sensitive.
What is Honey Extract and what does it do in cosmetics?
Natural honey extract.
What's the INCI name for Honey Extract?
The INCI name is Honey Extract. It may also appear as: Mel Extract.
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