A single-blind randomised controlled trial of topical Kanuka honey for the treatment of Acne

A recent pilot study using a Kanuka honey product for Acne showed that over 80% of participants self reported improvement, therefore this study treatment has the potential to be an effective treatment for Acne symptoms. In this study 138 adults with Acne will either wash their face with Protex Soap Fresh Antibacterial alone twice daily, or apply topical Kanuka honey to areas of Acne on their face for 30-60 minutes twice a day prior to washing with Protex Soap Fresh Antibacterial for 12 weeks. At baseline and after 4 weeks and 12 weeks the patient's Acne will be assessed to look at changes in severity. Participants will complete a diary for 12 weeks to record their daily treatment applications and weekly severity assessment. Subjects will complete a Dermatology Quality of Life questionnaire at all visits, to note any changes in quality of life. A visual analogue scale will be completed to note any improvement or worsening of a patient's Acne at Visits 2 and 3. This study will investigate the effectiveness of Kanuka honey in treating Acne, potentially improving the health outcomes of those with the condition, and will contribute to the knowledge base around the use of honey for the treatment of skin conditions.