Feature

Nectar from the Gods

June 24, 2009

They might give a nasty sting but the cute little furry Bee sure has a lot going for it when it comes to beauty products.

As a beautifying and healing ingredient honey has been around for centuries - Cleopatra is said to have bathed in milk and honey, Queen Anne of England used it to soften her hair; even the philosopher Aristotle wrote of its healing properties.

Now honey is making a comeback with various products being released that are infused with honey goodness.

M.A.C cosmetics is about to launch Naked Honey (from July 6 for six weeks only so don’t miss out) - a range of honey inspired colours and skin treatments including the divine Naked Honey Skin Salve, $48, which is a natural multi-purpose balm to soothe dry skin. Exactly what parched winter skin needs.

The L’Oreal Paris Color Riche Shine Gelee, $21.99, is enriched with Royal Jelly and shea butter - it goes on like a balm but leaves colour like a gloss, another timely product to have in the tote during these colder months when lips are prone to drying out.

It’s even being used in hair products - Kerastase Nectar Thermique, $42, is a must-have for anyone who uses heat styling tools. Amongst other things it has Royal Jelly to coat and seal the hair fibre to lock moisture in and prevent it from drying out.

Honey is an attractive natural ingredient for two main reasons - it has anti bacterial and hygroscopic abilities (meaning it draws moisture in), so it keeps skin moist while healing.

One of America’s most successful natural cosmetic companies - Burts Bees started when Burt sold lip balm (and candles) made from beeswax. Now a multi-million dollar company with numerous products, its humble beginnings show just how effective and popular the original product is.

Honey also functions well in moisturisers and night creams - kiwi company Honeycreme has pioneered this with great success. Using Manuka Honey combined with Bee Propolis, Evening Primrose Oil, Avocado Oil and Calendula their 18+ Skin Health Crème is excellent for those with irritated, sensitive skin. It is particularly good for those with eczema, dermatitis and rashes.

Is honey on your ingredient watch list? What honey-infused products have you used?

Tamsin xo