Manuka Health Has Launched Some of the Most Potent, Bee-Powered Skincare on Earth (2024)

High up in the mountains of Pohuenui—a small island in New Zealand—you can hear the subtle, continuous thrum of honey bees. The island is just one of hundreds of Manuka Health's beehive sites across New Zealand—an intense, impossible operation that results in the humane production of some of the most potent Manuka honey in the world. The ingredient—which can only be produced by honey bees that pollinate the Manuka tree—is the throughline of the brand's existing suite of best-selling honey and supplements. But as of today, the brand is bringing the healing powers of Manuka honey straight from the hives of New Zealand and onto your face with the introduction of five brand new, bee-powered skincare products.

And while honey in skincare is certainly nothing new, the magic is really in the Manuka. "Manuka honey contains MGO, which normal honey does not—this is an antibacterial and antimicrobial compound which is very potent and helps protect skin from bacterial/microbial assault," says Pia Rampling, global marketing manager at Manuka Health. "Manuka honey also contains enzymes, vitamins, and minerals which are preserved through Manuka Health’s maturation process, vs normal honey which could be heated to high temperatures, removing any benefits contained within it. A natural humectant, it has been shown to promote the structural growth of collagen in skin cells for firm, youthful-looking skin." Board-certified dermatologist Dr. Carolyn Stullconfirms this sentiment: "Manuka honey contains methylglyoxal, which has an antibacterial effect, along with antioxidant compounds including phenols and flavonoids," she says. "Manuka honey also acts as a humectant and emollient, helping to boost skin hydration. Studies have also shown that Manuka honey can accelerate wound healing." True Manuka honey only comes from New Zealand, where the Manuka tree has thrived for centuries. "The unique and pristine environment [in New Zealand] coupled with the right climatic conditions, high UV concentration, and the mineral-rich volcanic soils across the islands mean the Manuka tree flower has nectar with unparalleled potency—which gives our honey an edge over any other honey in the world."

In addition to Manuka honey, you'll also find bee-powered ingredients like propolis, bee venom, and royal jelly infused throughout the collection—which are all sourced from Manuka Health's private hives across New Zealand. And fortunately, the efficacy of those ingredients doesn't come without ethical sourcing. "Our sustainable beekeeping practices [and ensuring] the wellbeing of the hive is of the highest priority," says Rampling. "We are driven by a deep care for the wellbeing of people, bees, and our beautifully pristine environment. Our hives are GMO-free and free from pesticides, herbicides, neonics, glyphosate, and antibiotics—and therefore, none of these enter our beautiful honey."

Bee venom, in particular—which boasts a plumping effect on the skin— can be tricky to source without harming the bees (as the act of stinging to deposit venom often kills them). But Manuka Health has engineered a unique system: "Bee venom is extracted by placing a pane of glass at the entrance of the hive with a mild current running through it," says Rampling. "When the bees land on the glass, they deposit a tiny amount of venom. The process does not harm the bees at all, they fly off and produce more venom."

Discover the potent, powerful, bee-powered new skincare launches ahead.