Manuka Honey Benefits for Hair & How to Use It 2023

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Did you know that manuka honey benefits for hair are creating quite the buzz lately? You might have already heard about the impressive benefits of manuka honey for skin and hair, but wait until you discover how this sweet treat can work wonders on your locks.

In this article, we'll dive into the world of manuka honey, covering everything from what it is to how it promotes hair growth and the best ways to use it for your hair. So, is manuka honey good for hair? You bet it is! Keep reading to find out how to make the most of this golden gift from nature.

What Is Manuka Honey?

Now, you might be wondering, "What's so special about manuka honey, and how is it different from regular honey?" Manuka honey comes from the nectar of the manuka tree (Leptospermum scoparium), which is native to New Zealand and Australia. This honey isn't your average grocery store variety; it's a unique and potent type of honey prized for its health and beauty benefits.

What sets manuka honey apart from its counterparts is its high concentration of methylglyoxal (MGO)(1), a naturally occurring compound found in most types of honey but in much lower amounts.

MGO is responsible for manuka honey's potent antibacterial, antiviral, and anti-inflammatory properties, which contribute to its remarkable effects on hair and skin. So, when you're searching for a natural way to pamper your tresses, look no further than manuka honey!

6 Impressive Benefits of Manuka Honey for Hair

Now that you know what manuka honey is, let's delve into the sweet benefits it offers for your hair. Here are some of the top reasons why you should consider adding this golden nectar to your hair care routine:

Promote Hair Growth

Dreaming of long, luscious locks? Manuka honey could be your new best friend! Its rich blend of essential nutrients, vitamins, and antioxidants(2) works wonders in nourishing and strengthening hair follicles, providing a healthy environment for them to grow.

The high concentration of MGO found in manuka honey also aids in improving scalp health by reducing inflammation and fighting off hair growth-hindering bacteria. Get ready to flaunt those long tresses and enjoy the benefits of manuka honey for hair growth!

Moisturize and Condition

Dry, frizzy hair? No problem! Manuka honey works like a charm to moisturize and condition your hair. Its natural humectant properties lock in hydration and provide essential nutrients to maintain your hair's moisture balance.

The amino acids present in manuka honey help strengthen the hair shaft and smooth the hair cuticle, further enhancing its ability to keep your hair hydrated and frizz-free. The result? Soft, smooth, and manageable hair that's full of life.

Fight Dandruff and Scalp Issues

Bid adieu to dandruff and itchy scalp(3) with manuka honey! Its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties help eliminate dandruff-causing bacteria and fungi, soothe irritation, and reduce redness on the scalp.

Moreover, the natural enzymes in manuka honey help balance the scalp's pH levels, maintaining a healthy environment that discourages dandruff and other scalp problems from recurring. By incorporating manuka honey into your hair care routine, you can enjoy a healthier, itch-free scalp and keep those pesky flakes at bay.

Repair Damaged Hair

Manuka honey is like a superhero for damaged hair! Its high content of vitamins, minerals, and amino acids works wonders in repairing and strengthening hair strands, preventing breakage and split ends.

Plus, the antioxidants it contains help counteract the damage caused by heat styling, chemical treatments, and other external factors. So, give your hair the TLC it deserves with manuka honey and restore the health and vitality of your tresses.

Boosts Shine and Volume

Want shiny, voluminous hair? Manuka honey has got you covered! Its hydrating properties help smoothen the hair cuticles, resulting in a glossy, light-reflecting surface.

Additionally, the nutrients and amino acids present in manuka honey nourish the hair shaft, improving its overall health and contributing to increased volume. By incorporating manuka honey into your hair care routine, you can enjoy bouncy, shiny hair that turns heads wherever you go.

Protects Hair From Environmental Damage

Don't let pollution or UV rays ruin your hair game! Manuka honey's potent antioxidants protect your tresses from environmental factors that can cause damage. These antioxidants help neutralize free radicals generated by pollution, UV rays, and other external stressors, preventing oxidative stress that can weaken your hair and lead to breakage.

Moreover, the nutrients in manuka honey create a protective barrier around the hair shaft, further shielding it from potential harm. By using manuka honey as part of your hair care regimen, you can rest assured that your locks are well-protected and resilient against the elements.

With all these amazing benefits, it's no wonder that manuka honey is becoming a popular choice for hair care enthusiasts seeking a natural and effective solution to common hair woes!

Best Ways to Use Manuka Honey for Hair

So, you're ready to harness the power of manuka honey for your hair? Here are some of the best ways to use manuka honey for your hair:

Manuka Honey Hair Mask

Mix 2-3 tablespoons of manuka honey with 1-2 tablespoons of your favorite carrier oil (coconut, olive, or jojoba oil work well).
Apply the mixture to damp hair, focusing on the mid-lengths and ends. If your scalp is not oily, you can apply it there too.
Leave the mask on for 20-30 minutes, allowing the nutrients to penetrate and nourish your hair.
Rinse thoroughly with warm water and follow up with your regular shampoo and conditioner.

This hair mask helps moisturize, strengthen, and repair your hair, leaving it soft, shiny, and more manageable. It's perfect for treating damaged, dry, or frizzy hair. This hair mask will help moisturize, strengthen, and repair your hair, leaving it soft and shiny so why not give your hair a spa day?

Manuka Honey Scalp Treatment

Itchy, flaky scalp? No problem! Gently massage a tablespoon of manuka honey directly onto your scalp for a soothing, antibacterial treatment.

Take 1 tablespoon of manuka honey (you can mix it with a carrier oil like coconut or olive oil for easier application).
Gently massage the honey (or honey-oil mixture) directly onto your damp scalp, using your fingertips to ensure even distribution.
Allow the treatment to sit for 15-20 minutes, letting the honey work its antibacterial and soothing magic.
Rinse thoroughly with warm water, then shampoo and condition as usual.

This treatment will help alleviate dandruff and other scalp issues, promoting a healthy scalp environment.

Manuka Honey Shampoo Boost

Measure out a teaspoon of manuka honey.
Add the honey to your regular shampoo, mixing it well.
Lather up your hair with the honey-enhanced shampoo, then rinse and condition as usual.

Want an easy way to incorporate manuka honey into your hair care routine? This simple addition to your shampoo can provide your hair with extra nourishment and hydration, allowing you to enjoy the benefits of manuka honey without any added steps in your routine.

Manuka Honey Conditioner Enhancer

Mix a teaspoon of honey into your regular conditioner.
Apply the honey-infused conditioner to your hair as you normally would, focusing on the mid-lengths and ends.
Leave the conditioner on for a few minutes to let the honey work its magic.
Rinse thoroughly with water.

By enhancing your conditioner with manuka honey, your hair will receive an extra dose of hydration, shine, and strength, leaving it looking and feeling healthier.

Manuka Honey Hair Rinse

Combine 1-2 tablespoons of manuka honey with 1 cup of warm water, stirring until the honey is completely dissolved.
After shampooing, pour the honey-infused water evenly over your hair, making sure to cover all areas.
Gently massage the solution into your hair and scalp for a few moments.
Rinse your hair with cool water to seal the hair cuticles and enhance shine.

This gentle hair rinse can help cleanse and nourish your hair, leaving it soft, shiny, and refreshed without stripping away natural oils.

Manuka Honey Pre-Shampoo Treatment

To provide your hair with extra nourishment and protection, apply manuka honey to your hair before shampooing.

Dampen your hair and divide it into sections for easier application.
Apply manuka honey to your hair, focusing on the lengths and ends (you can also apply it to your scalp if it's not too oily).
Allow the honey to sit for about 20 minutes, letting it nourish and protect your hair.
Wash your hair with your regular shampoo and follow up with a conditioner.

This pre-shampoo treatment helps to moisturize and protect the hair, preventing it from getting stripped of natural oils during the shampoo process.

With these easy-to-follow methods, you can now enjoy all the amazing benefits of manuka honey for your hair. So, why wait? Start incorporating manuka honey into your hair care routine and let your hair shine like never before!

Final Thought: Is Manuka Honey Good for Hair?

Manuka honey isn't just a sweet treat; it's also a powerful ally in your quest for gorgeous hair. With its incredible benefits for hair growth, moisture, scalp health, and more, it's no wonder that manuka honey is becoming a popular addition to hair care routines. Plus, with the various ways to use it – from hair masks and scalp treatments to shampoo and conditioner enhancements – there's something for everyone.

So, why not give it a try? Start incorporating manuka honey into your hair care routine today and watch your hair transform into the luscious, healthy locks you've always dreamed of. And hey, maybe even share your newfound secret with your friends – after all, good hair days are meant to be celebrated!

Frequently Asked Questions

What does manuka honey do for hair?

Manuka honey moisturizes, strengthens, and promotes hair growth. It also soothes the scalp, fights dandruff, and adds shine. Rich in nutrients, manuka honey nourishes the hair and scalp, leading to healthier hair.

Does Manuka honey help hair growth?

Yes, manuka honey promotes hair growth. It contains vitamins, minerals, and amino acids that improve scalp health, creating an ideal environment for hair to grow strong and healthy.

Can you put Manuka honey on your scalp?

Yes, you can apply manuka honey to your scalp. It has antibacterial properties, soothing irritation, and combating dandruff, promoting a healthy scalp environment.

Is manuka honey good for low porosity hair?

Manuka honey can benefit low porosity hair by providing hydration and nutrients. It helps to moisturize and nourish the hair shaft, making it more manageable and less prone to breakage.

References

1. Carter, D.A., Blair, S.E., Cokcetin, N.N., Bouzo, D., Brooks, P., Schothauer, R. and Harry, E.J. (2016). Therapeutic Manuka Honey: No Longer So Alternative. Frontiers in Microbiology, {online} 7. doi:https://doi.org/10.3389/fmicb.2016.00569.

‌‌2. Yaghoobi, R., Kazerouni, A. and kazerouni, O. (2013). Evidence for Clinical Use of Honey in Wound Healing as an Anti-bacterial, Anti-inflammatory Anti-oxidant and Anti-viral Agent: A Review. Jundishapur Journal of Natural Pharmaceutical Products, {online} 8(3), pp.100–104. doi:https://doi.org/10.17795/jjnpp-9487.

3. Al-Waili NS (2022). Therapeutic and prophylactic effects of crude honey on chronic seborrheic dermatitis and dandruff. European journal of medical research, {online} 6(7). Available at: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11485891/.