Description
Nelson Honey’s Royal Nectar skincare range is formulated for a rapid anti-ageing effect. Royal Nectar Moisturising Face Lift includes Manuka Honey, Bee Venom and a soothing blend of natural waxes and oils which makes your skin look amazing.
Bee venom gently stimulates your facial muscles to tighten and firm the skin, reducing the effects of frown and laughter lines.
No bees are harmed in the bee venom collection process, to find out more click here.
Please note
Some variations to packaging have occurred in 2015. You may notice differences in the colour of the label (various shades of blue), changed layout of the brochure, and some products produced early 2015 come with a spatula without Royal Nectar embossed on it.
Directions for use
Apply over cleansed face and neck area. You can put on your daily make-up afterwards.
For best results use Royal Nectar Moisturising Face Lift every morning and combine with Royal Nectar Original Face Mask (either as a night cream or mask).
A test patch application is recommended for first use.
Natural ingredients
We pride ourselves on using natural ingredients where possible so your skin can soak up all the natural goodness. The key ingredients in our Royal Nectar Moisturising Face Lift are;
New Zealand Manuka Honey – Manuka Honey is rich in natural antioxidants and antibacterial activity and helps to moisturise and renew the skin.
Bee Venom – Bee Venom gently stimulates facial muscles for a natural anti-aging effect on fine lines and wrinkles.
Royal Nectar Moisturising Face Lift ingredients are Distilled Water, Nectar Ease (Manuka Honey with Bee Venom), Polawax GP200, Avocado Oil, Tocopherol Oil, Apricot Kernel Oil, Rose Hip Oil, Rose Water, Beeswax, Evening Primrose Oil, Optiphen Plus, Cocoa Butter, Fragrance, Ticaxan, Marshmallow Extract, Manuka Oil, Lavender Essential Oil.
Leave a product review and be in the monthly draw to Win a Nelson Honey Gift Pack valued at $100

Introduction
The science behind Bee Venom is still developing and researchers continue to find new uses for it. We add small quantities of Bee Venom to Manuka Honey to create our hugely successful ‘Aches and Pains’ honey Nectar Ease and this also forms the basis for our Royal Nectar skincare range.
Bee venom composition
Bee Venom composition and strength varies between Honeybee species and small variances are identifiable between bee breeds and locations.
Bee Venom contains a variety of peptides, including melittin, apamin, adolapin, the mast-cell-degranulating (MCD) peptide, enzymes (i.e., phospholipase A(2)), biologically active amines (i.e., histamine and epinephrine), and nonpeptide components which have a variety of pharmaceutical properties.
Bee Venom’s unique composition has multiple effects on the body. The natural components of Bee Venom have been isolated and studied scientifically and one of the most important components has been identified as Melittin. Making up about 50% of the Bee Venom, Melittin is recognised as being a powerful anti-inflammatory.
Bee venom uses
Bee venom has been used as a traditional medicine to treat arthritis, rheumatism, back pain, cancerous tumors, and skin diseases. Studies have proven the effectiveness of bee venom in treating pathological conditions such as arthritis, pain and cancerous tumours.
Bee Venom has been reported to have anti-arthritis effects in several arthritis models. Melittin, a major peptide component of BV, has anti-inflammatory and anti-arthritis properties.
Bee venom as a cosmetic ingredient may be useful as a topical agent for promoting skin regeneration or a treatment of certain epidermal conditions, according to research published in South Korea in 2015. This showed that bee venom serum treatment clinically improved facial wrinkles by decreasing total wrinkle area, total wrinkle count and average wrinkle dept.
The mechanism by which bee-venom serum exerts its anti-wrinkle effects is yet unknown, however, the therapeutic action of bee venom has been studied mostly for skin-related symptoms. When skin bacteria were incubated with bee venom, a bacteriostatic action of bee venom was demonstrated, which was further supported by its anti-inflammatory activity against skin bacteria through suppression of the secretion of pro-inflammatory cytokines. This same research showed that people suffering from acne benefited from treatment with bee venom.
Bee venom extraction
The Bee Venom used in Nectar Ease is extracted exclusively from the Apis Melifera species of Honeybee. Bee Venom is extracted from Honeybees using low voltage electrical stimulation. Bee keepers use a so-called collection frame which has wire electrodes installed that have a low electrical current running through them on a glass base, just like in the picture above. These frames are installed in honey hives and bees that come into contact with the wire electrodes will receive a small electrical shock. This causes bees to sting the glass, releasing the venom without losing their barbed sting (which usually results in bee deaths).
Once the collection process has finished, the Bee Venom dries on the glass, then the whole frame is transported to a laboratory to collect the venom.
Further reading
The National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI) offers a great source of published research about Bee Venom. Below are links to several interesting articles.
The beneficial effects of honeybee-venom serum on facial wrinkles in humans. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/26491274
Therapeutic application of anti-arthritis, pain-releasing, and anti-cancer effects of bee venom and its constituent compounds. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/17555825
Anti-cancer effect of bee venom on colon cancer cell growth by activation of death receptors and inhibition of nuclear factor kappa B. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/26561202
The Food and Agricultural Organisation of the United Nations has also published research on value-added products from beekeeping including Bee Venom. http://www.fao.org/docrep/w0076e/w0076e18.htm
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Science of Honey
The composition of a honey batch depends on the floral source(s) available to the bees that produced the honey. The carbohydrates comprise mainly Fructose (about 38%) and Glucose (about 31%). Water is the next highest category, varying around 17%. Other carbohydrates include Maltose (7%), and Sucrose and other complex carbohydrates (7%). Trace amounts of Vitamins, Minerals, Chrysin, Pinobanksin, catalase and Pinocembrin are also present. Research published in 2011 shows the most abundant minerals found in New Zealand mono-floral honeys (Clover, Honeydew, Kamahi, Manuka, Nodding Thistle, Rata, Rewarewa, Tawari, Thyme and Viper’s Bugloss honey) are potassium, phosphorus and calcium. Heavy metal contents (Cd, Pb and Zn) were very low.
Healing properties
The healing properties of honey are due to the fact it offers antibacterial activity, maintains a moist wound condition and its high viscosity helps to provide a protective barrier to prevent infections. The antimicrobial activity in most honeys is due to hydrogen peroxide, however, Manuka Honey displays significant antibacterial effects even when hydrogen peroxide is blocked, which is why we used to refer to the non-peroxide activity of Manuka Honey before research demonstrated this was the result of the presence of Methylglyoxal. Read more about honey, medicinal property and antibacterial care here.
Manuka Honey
Manuka Honey is unique to New Zealand and its healing properties have been a traditional part of folklore throughout New Zealand’s settled history. Ongoing laboratory and medical evidence using Manuka Honey supports the worth of this valuable resource.
Manuka Honey testing and labelling
We support the release of the Interim Labelling Guidelines for Manuka Honey released by the New Zealand Government in 2014 as it provides greater assurance for consumers looking for genuine New Zealand Manuka Honey.
The Ministry of Primary Industries has identified Methylglyoxal (MG) as an ingredient that can be identified in labelling and marketing Manuka honey, expressed as a minimum number of mg/kg. Scientific evidence has confirmed Methylglyoxal as being a key compound that occurs naturally in Manuka honey. We test all our Manuka Honey according to these standards. Visit our Batch Track page to obtain a copy of test results for your jar of Manuka Honey.
For more information download a copy of the new guidelines click here.
Honeydew Honey
While Manuka Honey is extremely well-known for its healing properties, our Honeydew Honey may also offer some excellent health benefits. It contains much higher levels of complex sugars called Oligosaccharides than nectar (or floral) honey.
Research shows that the human digestive system has a hard time breaking down Oligosaccharides. Almost 90% escapes digestion in the small intestine and reaches the colon where it performs a different function; that of a prebiotic. Prebiotics support the growth of certain kinds of bacteria in the colon. These bacteria produce many beneficial substances including short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) and certain B-vitamins. There is also evidence they may promote further absorption of minerals that have escaped the small intestine like calcium and magnesium. Research into SCFAs is quite new but shows possible benefits include protecting colon tissue from damage including colon cancer and ulcerative colitis, lower cholesterol, lower triglycerides, and improved immune system function.
Honeydew Honey also contains higher levels of antioxidants and minerals compared to other floral honeys.
A study published in 2014 shows that people with chronic leg ulcers who were treated with Honeydew honey experience a significant decrease of the average wound area and nearly three quarters of patients reported a decrease in pain levels. Based on the findings of this research, honeydew honey has the potential to be one of the medical-grade honeys.
Further reading
The National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI) offers a great source of published research about honey. Below are links to several interesting articles.
Identification and Quantitation of 2-Acetyl-1-pyrroline in Manuka Honey (Leptospermum scoparium). http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/26365614
Studies on the formation of methylglyoxal from dihydroxyacetone in Manuka (Leptospermum scoparium) Honey. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22960208
The origin of methylglyoxal in New Zealand Manuka (Leptospermum scoparium) Honey. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19368902
Honey in dermatology and skin care: a review. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/24305429
The Medicine of the Manuka: an investigation of the usages and methods for utilization of honey derived from the pollen of Leptospermum scoparium in holistic nursing practice. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23535120
Treatment of non-healing leg ulcers with Honeydew Honey. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25187187
Mineral analysis of mono-floral New Zealand honey. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25214355
Average Nutritional Value per 100 g
|
Energy |
1,340 kJ (320 kcal) |
Carbohydrates |
79.6 g |
Fats |
0 g |
Protein |
0.4 g |
Water |
17.10 g |
Riboflavin (vit. B2) |
0.038 mg |
Niacin (vit. B3) |
0.121 mg |
Pantothenic acid (B5) |
0.068 mg |
Vitamin B6 |
0.024 mg |
Folate (Vit. B9) |
2 μg |
Vitamin C |
0.5 mg |
Calcium |
6 mg |
Iron |
0.42 mg |
Magnesium |
2 mg |
Phosphorus |
4 mg |
Potassium |
52 mg |
Sodium |
12 mg |
Zinc |
0.22 mg |
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Helen Lee (verified owner) –
I thought I was being smart and went without my Nelson Honey moisturiser for 3 months thinking others would suffice. Oh! How wrong I was. This product is truly amazing. My skin improved 100% when I went back to it. It is smooth and glowing, and you only need to use a tad, I will never use another.
Kath (verified owner) –
I was first given this by someone from Neilson when I said I was considering Botox – I haven’t had Botox now!
This product works wonders on my skin – managing fine lines and helping reduce inflammation / breakouts due to pregnancy hormones.
The jar lasts 2-3mths & I apply every morning – a little goes a long way with this product! Plus my skin feels great & never oily as a result of using this. I don’t see myself ever stopping using this moisturiser!
Pan (verified owner) –
I am from Australia and was recommended Moisturising Facelift by a friend. After trying it and finding it to be highly effective on my dry skin, I purchased a pot of Original Face mask which I use as a night cream. I find I only need a small quantity of both creams. It goes a long way so is quite economical. My skin always feels good after I have used it – never greasy or oily. I am in my 60s and it has certainly improved the appearance of my saggy old wrinkles! Thanks Nelson Honey
Lynn (verified owner) –
I have been using the full skincare range for several months now and i absolutely love it!!!
I am 52 years old and my skin has never looked better. It has a real glow to it and just looks and feels tighter/firmer. I have tried many skincare ranges but this is by far the best and such a great price!!! Thank you so much for creating this wonderful skincare range. I will not use anything else.
Lynn
michelle afoa (verified owner) –
Ive been using bee products for a couple of years and been quite satisfied with the results. But when I was gifted a jar of Royal Nectar Bee Venom eye cream, I was amazed. After looking through the website, I became eager to try the Moisturising Face Lift. Im in my mid 50s, post menopause and struggling with coming to terms with dry, sagging skin. Ive been using this product day and night for 2 weeks and notice improvement in my skin tone, fine lines do appear to be filled out. A couple of my children have commented on how my skin is looking good. In fact, my whole face looks and feels conditioned, and skin looks plumper, (for want of a better word). Am very keen to try the Bee Venom face mask now. Hopefully next pay day.
Merrill (verified owner) –
I have recently lost a lot of weight which resulted in the skin on my face looking very saggy, I purchased Royal Nectar Moisturising face lift and are astounded at the difference this product has made in a matter of weeks!! I have had lots of comments on how good my skin is looking and how quickly it has firmed up, Highly recommend.
Alison Woolley (verified owner) –
I love this under my make up. Totally non greasy and makeup applies perfectly.
Reg (verified owner) –
It’s a great product. My face feels much better and not as dry as before. Like it.
Reg (verified owner) –
Great product and is working well. The moisturiser makes my face feel good, definetly not as dry as before.
Toni Keegan (verified owner) –
I have found this a wonderful moisturiser. Will purchase again
Pat Stevenson (verified owner) –
Hello,
I have just purchased the Royal Nectar Moisturising Face Lift and the Royal Nectar bee venom eye cream two weeks ago.
I normally use a german face product which is made from Organic Roses, but will have to say that I like the way my skin has improved and looks less lined round the eye and mouth area with the Royal Nectar products.
I cannot wait till next month so I can purchase the Royal Nectar face mask, to try out and wait for even more great results with this newly discovered skincare. I am 62 years old.
Annette –
I was recently in Auckland from Australia and was thrilled to purchase some of your products. I will definitely continue to buy and recommend your products to others. Love the texture of Royal Nectar face lift. Just wish I had bought some more as I won’t be back for a few months and hope I don’t run out. Thanks for producing quality products. Always love to try new things especially natural creams.
Gemma (verified owner) –
Absolutely love your moisturising face lift cream and bee venom eye cream – and the sample size night cream you included – it’ll definitely be my next purchase!
Nicky –
Love this product! I received a sample from the mums meet mums event and glad I did! I will be using from now on as my moisturiser. I have been using it every morning along with the cleanser and my face feels softer and smoother. I love that it’s all natural and wouldn’t go back to supermarket brands. Thanks Nelson honey for a great product.
Regards, Nicky
Heather Henderson –
to Nelson Honey
thanks for inventing the Royal Nectar Face Lift – it is a superb product. I cant recall where I first heard of it, maybe in a celeb story – not that I read those too often – but to read about a New Zealand product made from natural products and producing what seemed to be fantastic results I thought I have to try this. So I did, a number of years ago now, and have never regretted it.
The pot lasts me 12 months which I consider very good value for money and it does what it says on the can, my skin feels tight and nourished and I like to think my skin of 63 years looks as good as it could be and I have influenced a couple of friends to invest in it too.
So again, thank you.
Heather
Featherston
Amy –
I received a sample of the moisturizing face lift at the Mums Meet Mums event and although I’ve only been using it for a week, am loving it, my skin feels soft, moisturized and looks fresh. Now I’m keen to try the bee venom face mask.
Michelle hodges –
The royal nectar moisturising face lift has been part of my regular routine for 4 months now and I have noticed a marked improvement in my skin texture and reduction in the brown age related spots this is a must for me now FANTASTIC PRODUCT!
Barbara Gibson (verified owner) –
Brilliant product. So well priced and gives consistently good results. Very impressed with the service also. I can order the product on one day and generally receive it within a couple of days. Shall continue to make this one of my basic must have products. With my last purchase I received some samples of other products in your range. Looking forward to trying those. With thanks.
simon (verified owner) –
I have received the items. Very good, i will buy it again soon.
Marta – truthinaging.com –
I was very excited to track down (actually it was Faye) the original source of bee venom all the way to a family-owned beekeeping business in New Zealand. The Royal Nectar Face Mask turned out to be a dead ringer for the one made in the UK – and apparently beloved by Camilla Duchess of Cornwall – but slightly nicer (see my video comparison) and less expensive. I love the mask as a once a week complexion refresher and the past month or so I’ve been trying out the moisturizer, the Royal Nectar Moisturizing Face Lift.
Read the full review
Leonie –
I have just started using Royal Nectar Original Face Mask and Royal Nectar Moisturising Face Lift and I am thrilled with the immediate results! Thank you so much for developing a natural product that allows my skin to be the best it can be.
I love the way it has softened my face lines in a natural way. I am really very impressed and will be recommending your products to everyone I know.
Leonie
Emma – Pukekohe, NZ –
Hi there at Nelson Honey
I am writing in regard to your Royal Nectar Products. Fabulous, brilliant and wonderful. Moisturising, nourishing and effective. I am finding that my skin looks really good!!! I absolutely love the fact that it is all natural, my skin feels lovely and tight after application. My skin looks smoother and has a freshness and brightness to it. I say well done!!!!!
I am an avid user and cannot understand why women are spending their money on products that are chemical based and cost the earth (literally) I am positive those products are highly damaging on the skin. Thank you for creating such a superb product.
Kind Regards, Emma
Pukekohe, New Zealand