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be sonatural, Face masks, read from the back

Honey Extract

Honey

Well toleratedHumectanthumectantsoothingskin conditioning

No meaningful concern for most people; irritation is possible but rare.

Also written as: Mel Extract · Mel · Honey

What it is

Honey extract is derived from honey, a concentrated mix of fructose, glucose, small amounts of amino acids, minerals and enzymes. Its high sugar content makes it a natural humectant, and it also has mild antibacterial activity. It appears widely in hydrating and comforting masks.

What it does well

  • Draws and holds water at the skin surface

    Honey's sugars are effective humectants, giving a reliable short-term hydration and softening effect in leave-on and wash-off masks.

    Moderate evidence

Worth knowing

  • Bee-derived, so not vegan and a risk for bee-product allergy

    Honey comes from beehives and can contain traces of propolis and pollen. People allergic to bee products or to specific pollens can react to topical honey.

    Matters most toVegans, and anyone with a bee-product, propolis or pollen allergy.

Where the EU stands

No specific restriction

No EU concentration limit or annex restriction. Listed in the EU cosmetic ingredient database as a humectant and skin-conditioning ingredient.

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Masks that contain Honey Extract