Why Manuka honey is the biggest buzzword in beauty right now

…as climate change and exposure to agrochemicals and disease have caused their population to dwindle. But honey has long been on the beauty radar as a natural skin salve, with women harnessing its antibacterial and antioxidant properties to manage acne and soften skin (Cleopatra was said to take regular milk and honey baths). Honey is what led New York-based Kiehl’s to New Zealand’s Manuka flower and its legendary nectar, which is brimming with clinically proven cell-repairing, collagen-booting and anti-inflammatory goodness. Sweet, indeed.

Click through for seven of our favourite honey-infused beauty buys. Your skin will thank you for it.

A multi-purpose lip treatment rich in royal jelly and a blend of different honey types. $107, Sephora.

With 99.6 per cent natural ingredients, including manuka honey from New Zealand and Korean Red Ginseng root, this luxe cream promises brighter, smoother skin. $87, Kiehl’s.

Cult French pharmacy brand Nuxe is famed for its honey formulations, and this soap- and paraben-free cleanser is no exception. $29.95, Adore Beauty.

Manuka honey, aloe vera, white clay and charcoal promote clear skin, hydrated skin. $17.99, Priceline.

Made with 20 per cent community trade Ethiopian honey, this mask has a delicious melting honey texture. $39.95, The Body Shop.

Leave this moisturising mask on wet hair for five minutes for shiny, hydrated hair. $31.95, Catwalk.

Lips that taste like honey? Yes please. With beeswax, shea butter, almond oil, cocoa butter and lanolin, this balm deserves a place in your purse. $6.95, Burt’s Bees.