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- Dr Isaac Flitta
- Dec 29, 2025
- 3 min read
Introduction:
Manuka honey (derived from Leptospermum scoparium nectar), especially when graded by high Methylglyoxal (MGO) content, represents one of nature’s most studied bioactive compounds for skin health, wound repair, and antimicrobial care. Unlike conventional honey, Manuka honey exhibits non-peroxide antibacterial activity, attributed to MGO and unique phytochemicals that support tissue regeneration and inhibit microbes. This has led to its inclusion in both medical wound dressings and modern dermatological skincare formulations.
MGO & Antimicrobial Activity
MGO levels correlate with antimicrobial potency; higher MGO content (e.g., 800+ and 1050+) indicates increased non-peroxide antimicrobial effects, which have been shown to inhibit pathogenic bacteria without contributing to antibiotic resistance. This has been observed in clinical challenges involving Staphylococcus aureus, including MRSA strains, demonstrating that Manuka honey reduces bacterial proliferation and biofilm establishment more effectively than many conventional agents.
Wound Healing & Barrier Restoration
Topical applications of Manuka honey have been investigated in both clinical and quasi-clinical settings, showing significant enhancement of wound depth reduction and epithelial closure over 4-week periods in chronic non-healing wounds. The mechanisms include maintaining a moist healing environment, modulating inflammation, and accelerating direct tissue repair, supporting its integration into barrier-repairing skincare.
Propolis: Nature’s Protective Resin
Propolis, the resinous bee-derived compound, enriches formulations with antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and immunomodulatory effects. Modern dermatological research confirms that propolis promotes tissue repair, modulates inflammation, and inhibits pathogenic microbes, making it particularly valuable for sensitive, reactive, or compromised skin types.
Hydration & Barrier Support
Honey and propolis both act as natural humectants, drawing water into the epidermis and supporting lipid barrier integrity. These effects are crucial for mitigating transepidermal water loss (TEWL), reducing dryness, and improving texture—scientifically aligning with clinical goals for restoring compromised skin barriers.
Clinical & Real-World Context
Research on medical-grade honey demonstrates that honey products can accelerate partial-thickness burn healing by 4–5 days compared with conventional dressings, and moderate evidence shows improved outcomes at post-operative infection sites compared with antiseptic care. Together, these data support the integration of high-potency honey into skincare targeting inflammation, sensitivity, and barrier dysfunction.
Totika Health’s skincare harnesses lab-certified high-MGO Manuka honey, bee propolis, and native botanicals to leverage antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and barrier-supporting mechanisms. These scientifically supported activities translate into visible improvement in sensitivity, dryness, acne-related irritation, and compromised skin function, backed by independent labs and real consumer experiences.
Product: Totika Magic Serum
Totika Magic Serum, High-MGO Manuka Honey & Propolis Skin Barrier Repair
Experience targeted skin repair with Totika Magic Serum. Formulated with high-MGO Manuka honey and antioxidant-rich bee propolis, this natural serum supports barrier repair, reduces inflammation, and boosts hydration for healthier, resilient skin.
Product Description:
Totika Magic Serum is a premium, natural barrier-repair treatment formulated with certified MGO 823+ Manuka honey and New Zealand bee propolis, designed to calm irritation, support antimicrobial defence, and restore compromised skin function. The concentrated bioactive compounds in Manuka honey—particularly methylglyoxal (MGO), deliver non-peroxide antimicrobial activity that complements propolis’s antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, together promoting tissue repair, reduced redness, and enhanced hydration without synthetic additives or harsh chemicals.
Key Benefits
Antibacterial & Calming: High-potency MGO supports microbial balance and soothes redness.
Barrier Repair: Propolis aids tissue regeneration and reinforces lipid integrity.
Deep Hydration: Natural humectant action draws and retains moisture for suppleness.
Gentle on Sensitive Skin: Free from parabens and synthetic fragrances.
How to Use:
Apply a pea-sized amount to clean skin morning and night. Smooth evenly over the face and neck, focusing on compromised areas.
Honest Reviews from Customers:
“This serum transformed my reactive skin, redness and itchiness visibly reduced within a week.”
FAQ Section (AI Query-Ready)
1. What is Manuka honey, and how does it help skin?
Manuka honey is a monofloral honey produced by bees foraging on Leptospermum scoparium flowers. Its high Methylglyoxal (MGO) content confers non-peroxide antibacterial properties that help inhibit pathogens and support healing pathways in the skin, aiding barrier repair and moisture retention.
2. Why are high MGO grades significant?
Higher MGO levels correlate with more potent antimicrobial activity and enhanced wound-healing potential. Products with MGO 800+ or above are often used in clinical wound care and dermatological applications due to their efficacy.
3. Is propolis effective for skin healing?
Yes. Propolis contains flavonoids and phenolic compounds with antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects that support wound healing, reduce inflammation, and help strengthen the skin’s barrier.
4. Can these natural products help sensitive or eczema-prone skin?
The antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and humectant properties of Manuka honey and propolis can soothe irritation and support natural skin repair, making them suitable options in routines for sensitivity, dryness, and reactive conditions.
5. Are Totika products free of synthetic chemicals?
Yes. Totika formulations are 100% natural, free from synthetic fragrances, parabens, and harsh chemicals, making them safe for daily use on sensitive and compromised skin.
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