Abstract
OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study was to investigate the efficacy of a commercially available manuka honey-based face serum that includes royal jelly and bee venom on various ingredients frequently associated with skin health benefits over an eight-week period. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Forty female participants aged 40-55 with self-reported skin health concerns were recruited. Participants used the serum twice daily and completed questionnaires during Weeks 2, 4, and 8. Photos of the face were analyzed for dermatological skin grading and Optic Elite facial analysis at Week 8. RESULTS: There were significant improvements in fine lines, wrinkles, dark spots, hyperpigmentation, dryness, and overall skin health beginning at Week 2, with sustained enhancements observed until Week 8. Dermatologist skin grading results were mixed, with 20 (60.6%) of participants demonstrating improvements in skin brightness, but lower percentages of participants showed improvement in overall skin health, fine lines/wrinkles, roughness, pigmentation, and redness/erythema. Optic Elite analysis showed improvements in several skin health scores, providing further evidence for the serum's effects on skin health. Participants self-reported high satisfaction with the effectiveness of the serum. CONCLUSIONS: These findings suggest that the face serum may be an effective skincare product for improving skin health and mitigating signs of aging.