Manuka Honey Helps Cure Acne

Can Manuka Honey Really Cure Your Acne?

Manuka honey is the homecoming queen of the beauty world this year. And like the homecoming queen at your high school, it's really good at a lot of things.

But beyond soothing allergies, fighting bacteria, and even helping you sleep better, one of the biggest promises Manuka honey offers is its supposed ability to fight acne. Even celebs like Kourtney Kardashian claim it’s helped zap stubborn zits.

Could slathering this specialty honey from New Zealand bees really clear up your complexion? 

Here's what dermatologists have to say:

Basically, what makes it great for your skin in general makes it really work for acne, says Karen Hammerman, M.D., of Schweiger Dermatology Group.

"Its anti-inflammatory effects can decrease acne inflammation, and as an antibacterial, it leaves few bacteria to infect pores and cause acne," Hammerman says. This should help existing breakouts look less red and swollen, and prevent future painful pimples.

It can also help slough away dead skin cells, she says—keeping them from clogging your pores and causing blackheads and whiteheads. The soothing and hydrating properties of the sweet stuff can heal existing pimples, and it can help speed up recovery from old acne scars, says New York City dermatologist Arash Akhavan, M.D., founder of the Dermatology and Laser Group...