What it is
Mel is the cosmetic name for honey, the sweet substance produced by honeybees from flower nectar, composed largely of fructose, glucose, and water along with trace enzymes and other constituents. As a sugar-rich material it draws and holds moisture, giving it humectant and conditioning properties that leave skin feeling soft and supple. In sunscreens it is used at low levels as a moisturizing, soothing botanical-style ingredient.
Safety & warnings
Honey is generally well tolerated topically. People with known bee-product or pollen sensitivities should be aware it is bee-derived, and it is not a vegan ingredient. As a sugar-rich humectant it is not associated with clogging pores at typical use levels.
Origin & sourcing
Natural; produced by honeybees from floral nectar.
History
Honey has been used on skin and in cosmetics across many cultures for thousands of years, valued for its conditioning and soothing qualities long before its INCI designation as Mel.
Questions everyone asks
Is Mel just honey?
Yes. Mel is the standardized cosmetic ingredient name for honey produced by bees.
Is honey suitable for vegans?
No. Honey is a bee-derived animal product and is not considered vegan.