Natural Actives: Manuka Oil

Nature's Powerful Remedy

In the landscape of natural skincare and wellness, few ingredients are as prominent as Manuka oil. Celebrated for its potent antibacterial, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties, Manuka oil has become a cornerstone for achieving healthy, radiant skin.

Photography by Carisse Enderwick
INSIDE SIORA

What Is Manuka Oil?

The Manuka tree, often referred to as the New Zealand tea tree, has been utilized for centuries by the indigenous Maori people. They harnessed the plant’s medicinal properties to treat wounds, infections, and various ailments. It wasn’t until the 20th century, however, that modern science began to recognize and validate the remarkable properties of Manuka oil.

Nowadays, Manuka oil is steam distilled from the leaves and small branches of the Manuka tree (Leptospermum scoparium). What sets Manuka oil apart from other essential oils is its unique chemical composition. It contains over 50 different active compounds, such as triketones, leptospermone, flavesone, and isoleptospermone, which contribute to its potent antibacterial, antifungal, and anti-inflammatory properties. These compounds make Manuka oil a powerful natural remedy for various skin conditions, including eczema, blemishes, flare-ups, and acne.

It's worth mentioning that Manuka honey and Manuka oil both derive from the Manuka tree and share several beneficial properties, although they differ in their specific applications and compositions. Manuka honey is often ingested for its health benefits and used topically for its soothing and healing properties, whereas Manuka oil is typically applied topically and used in various skincare and therapeutic products.

How does SIORA use manuka oil in its products?

With our shared commitment to sustainability and eco-conscious production methods, we have partnered with suppliers like Manuka Bioscience, a B Corp Certified Company, to ensure our Manuka Oil embodies the highest standards of quality and efficacy.

Combining tradition with modern sustainability practices, Manuka Bioscience supplies premium quality Manuka oil sourced exclusively from the East Cape region of New Zealand, renowned for its unique chemical composition and exceptional purity.

This appeals to discerning consumers who prioritise both effectiveness and ethical integrity in their skincare routines.

SIORA has masterfully infused the potent properties of Manuka oil into our innovative Night Serum. This luxurious treatment is crafted with sustainably sourced Manuka oil, skilfully combined with probiotics to fortify the skin's natural barrier and promote a healthy microbiome and skin renewal.

This unique formulation, enriched with Bakuchiol, Manuka Honey, Kawakawa, and Lactic Acid, deeply hydrates and soothes irritated skin. It enhances skin texture, promotes skin regeneration, and reduces the appearance of fine lines and blemishes.

This synergistic blend elevates the serum's effectiveness, delivering visible results and superior skin health benefits.

How Does Manuka Oil Benefit the Skin?

  • Antibacterial Properties: Manuka oil effectively kills harmful pathogens, making it ideal for treating infections, acne, and eczema.

  • Antioxidant Protection: Rich in antioxidants, Manuka oil neutralizes free radicals, protecting skin from oxidative stress and premature aging, while promoting a youthful, radiant complexion.

  • Promotes Collagen Production: Manuka oil contains compounds that stimulate collagen synthesis, thereby contributing to overall collagen production in the skin and helping maintain skin firmness and elasticity.

  • Anti-inflammatory & Anti-wrinkle Effects: By calming the skin and promoting cell regeneration, Manuka oil can minimise the appearance of wrinkles and promote a smoother, more youthful complexion.

  • Moisturises and Hydrates: Manuka oil is a potent moisturiser that helps replenish lost moisture and lock it into the skin. This hydration helps plump up the skin, reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

  • Improves Skin Tone and Texture: Regular use of Manuka oil can help improve overall skin tone and texture by promoting cell turnover and exfoliation. This can result in a brighter, more even complexion with reduced pigmentation and age spots.

  • Protects Against Environmental Damage: Manuka oil's antioxidant and antimicrobial properties help protect the skin from environmental aggressors, accelerate wound healing, prevent premature ageing and maintain skin health.

Is Manuka oil suitable for all skin types?

Manuka oil is a versatile and potent natural remedy suitable for a wide range of skin types. Its antibacterial, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties make it particularly effective for oily, acne-prone, and sensitive skin, while its moisturising and anti-aging benefits are well-suited for dry and mature skin types. 

Manuka oil offers multiple benefits, including antioxidant protection, collagen stimulation, wrinkle reduction, hydration, improved skin tone and texture, and protection against environmental damage. Incorporating Manuka oil into your skincare routine can help promote a youthful, radiant complexion and support overall skin health as you age.