Beauty news: Mānuka Health enters the world of beauty supplements

They say what you put on your skin is only half the story, and ingestible beauty products are huge right now. Part of that is due to the endless flogging of them on Instagram by Women In Stretchy Pants, and part is due to the fact that for some people, they really do work.

In 2014 Elle Macpherson launched The Super Elixir, a supplement produced by WelleCo, the wellness company she co-founded. Taking two teaspoonfuls a day of the green powder is supposed to increase vitality, aid digestion, and ostensibly, give you Macpherson's bod, all thanks to the fact that it keeps your body running at an alkaline level. Alkalinity basically means that everything is working optimally, so in theory, you should expect better skin as an added bonus. Many I know have applauded its ability to control bloating, but at $169 for a 300g caddy it’s somewhat of an investment. 

Since the growth in the beauty supplement industry has really taken hold, some local brands have created their own solutions with some solid results – and an attractive price point. Mānuka Health – which was founded way back in 2006 – is the latest name to join the category, developing a whole new category of dietary supplements that leverages the benefits of New Zealand Bee Propolis and Royal Jelly. Combined with other researched natural ingredients, they work hard to support some common modern health concerns. These include the perils of blue light damage from over exposure to digital devices, healthy skin aging, and year round immune support. 

The new range utilises the magic of the aforementioned Propolis, which is a product made by bees using plant resin that is used to protect the hive. New Zealand’s unique environment produces plants rich in bioactive compounds, making New Zealand Propolis one of the most potent in the world. It’s full on antioxidants and is a bit of a hero ingredient in many Mānuka Health products. 

Mānuka Health Vision Shield is one of the key new releases, and has been developed to provide essential nutrients to support the eyes from damage and strain associated with screen use and blue light exposure. Vision Shield has been formulated with scientifically researched FloraGlo® Lutein which is backed by more than 20 years of research and is hailed as the most trusted lutein brand globally. FloraGlo® Lutein paired with Zeaxanthin, provides the essential antioxidants needed in the eyes to support protection against light damage.  This powerful ingredient is then complemented by the natural protector, New Zealand Propolis. 

Mānuka Health Beauty Enhancer is the pick for those of you keen to support the health of your skin round the clock, and aims to promote skin radiance and plumpness. It lends support for ageing skin and can address the likes of pigmentation and skin elasticity, as well as providing protection from damaging free radicals. It has been developed with an advanced form of hydrolysed collagen that is more bioavailable and bioactive than other forms of collagen, making it easily absorbed. It also helps the skin’s own collagen metabolism, increasing moisture in the skin (bonus!) over time and delaying the formation of lines and wrinkles (love it). The combination of this beauty powerhouse, with the magic of Royal Jelly, results in a high performing addition to your beauty regime. Also included in this powerful blend is Evening Primrose Oil, Grape Seed extract, Biotin, Vitamin C and Zinc. 

Vision Shield has an RRP of $49.99 for 60 capsules, while Beauty Enhancer costs $65.99 for 120.

To find out more visit www.manukahealth.co.nz.