Honey is an ingredient that evokes magic, purity, and goodness in the consumer's mind. Honey has been used in cosmetics since time immemorial for its ability to moisturize skin and hair. However, natural honey, a 75% active solution of disaccharides, is sticky in consistency, and its moisturizing properties are poor compared to other, more commonly used materials such as glycerin, MEA acetamide, and propylene glycol. Hence, it has never been used at levels beyond promotional in cosmetics and toiletries.
While usually consumed as a food, natural honey is used as an emollient, moisturizer, and nutrient for the skin. Its composition (Mel extract) is rich in sugars (glucose and fructose, representing nearly 90% of the saccharides), organic acids, small amounts of nitrogenous materials, and vitamins of the B group. In addition, recent scientific evidence indicates that honey is a potent healer—an excellent antibacterial agent and humectant (it contains glucose and fructose, which have powerful moisture-holding properties).
Mel extract is used in treatment preparations such as anti-aging, protective, moisturizing, anti-wrinkle, sun care, regenerating, and cell repair products; face and body treatment lotions; active face lotions; and masks for aged or damaged skin.
