Since as early as the Ancient Egypt era, even the ruler Cleopatra herself had been said to use this luscious golden liquid as her secret to achieving everlasting youthful skin. It is no wonder, though, it’s not for no reason that honey is the only food that never goes bad in your cupboard. The same antimicrobial properties, when applied to your skin, will create an invisible shield to fight all the acne-causing bacteria, damage, environmental factors and anything the world has to throw at you. It tackles many skin issues, and even if you don’t have any major ones, you would still feel in bliss while using honey-based skincare products due to its calming and moisturizing superpower.
Sweet (literally) news, don’t worry if you still don’t know where to start. In this article, we are going to cover the benefits of using honey as a part of your skincare regime and also recommend 3 products suitable for different needs. Your love life might be dry, but never let your skin be! We got you!
Skincare Benefits
- nourishing
- treat your acne
- anti-inflammatory
- anti-aging
Nourishing
Nourishing, hydrating and moisturizing – all these words are common when you read up about honey’s benefits for the skin. It’s not an exaggeration to say that honey gives you all that because the enzymes present in honey enable it to easily seep into the skin while conditioning it and softening it from deep within. On top of that, honey is a natural humectant, which means that it draws moisture from the air into your skin. Therefore it keeps your skin hydrated, fresh and supple at all times!
Acne Treatment
Chronic skin conditions can be treated with honey-based skincare products. However, an important thing to note about using honey to treat these conditions is to use unpasteurized honey, such as manuka honey and buckwheat honey, especially if it’s infused with propolis.
It’s vital that the honey you use still contains its healthy bacteria so that it can activate your immune system and help with inflammation, redness, and heal blemishes. Moreover, because honey keeps the skin well-hydrated and balanced, it helps control the production of oil which prevents acne. Before applying, make sure to do a patch test of the honey and any other ingredients to ensure you won’t have an allergic reaction.
Anti-Inflammatory
For people battling eczema day to day, choosing the right skincare products can be a nightmare. Luckily, the antioxidants in honey had been well-known to accelerate the healing of the skin cells. Manuka honey, in particular, supports skin’s natural immunity by reinforcing the skin barrier. While this is beneficial regardless of skin type, those who suffer from sensitivity or skin conditions such as eczema may see a particular improvement. In fact, Manuka honey is so effective at healing wounds quickly that it’s now used by doctors in clinical settings.
Anti-Aging
We all want to age like a fine wine – and we should never forget that we are still beautiful despite our outer shell. But if fine lines and wrinkles have been causing your insecurities lately, try applying honey-based products on your face! The natural antioxidants help control wrinkles and fine lines. Honey will increase your skin’s elasticity, thus making it look youthful and glowing. You can even steal Cleopatra’s simple recipe from the comfort of your home by mixing honey with milk or curd to ease out fine lines and wrinkles. Keep this paste on your face for 15 minutes and rinse it off with lukewarm water, and voilà – instantly soft and plump skin is achieved!
Skin Types
- dry skin with acne
- dry and dehydrated skin
- aging skin
- sensitive skin
Honey Skincare Products
FARMACY Honey Potion Renewing Antioxidant Hydration Mask (Check Price on Amazon)
Although it is on the pricier side, it is undeniably one of the best products recommended by many. It is the perfect mask for when you just had a long tiring work week and you feel like treating yourself like a princess. Combining honey and amino-rich royal jelly, this restorative face mask will give your skin the glow it deserves. Furthermore, for some people who hate using raw honey because of its annoying sticky and thick texture, using FARMACY Honey Potion is a relief because it has a marmalade-like consistency.
How to use: Massage into skin until it warms up and transforms into a rich cream. Leave on for 10-15 minutes and rinse off.
The Body Shop Almond Milk & Honey Body Butter (Check Price on Amazon)
Despite its relatively more affordable price compared to the other top high-end similar products, The Body Shop Almond Milk & Honey Body Butter is made with organic almond milk from Spain and community trade honey from Ethiopia. Not only equipped with hypoallergenic fragrance and dermatologically tested, but this heavenly rich body butter also boasts its 48 hours-long intense moisture. Say goodbye to your irritating skin, because this body butter has been specially formulated to soothe, restore and protect dry and sensitive skin!
How to use: After a relaxing soak in the bath, rub a generous helping of body butter into the skin to lock in moisture.
Eczema Honey Original Skin-Soothing Cream
This daily-use cream is everything a person with eczema needs – it is safe, non-toxic, and definitely very gentle to the skin. It is made with the best anti-inflammatory, non-irritating ingredients including all-organic beeswax, pure honey, almond oil, and sunflower oil.
How to use: As a treatment cream: Rub a dime-sized amount into the skin’s affected area 1-3 times a day. Add water or aloe-based lotion on top if desired.
As general skincare: Gently massage into dry areas of the skin until only a thin protective layer forms without too much excess product.
As a facemask: Apply a thicker layer for a 20-minute mask, wash with a clean and warm towelette for a moisturized and smooth finish.
