There are some things that you almost can’t go wrong with when trying DIY skincare. And honey is definitely topping the list. This kitchen staple ingredient has been used in medicine and food since times immemorial. Here’s why your skin likes it, too.
Honey(1) is a natural antibacterial agent, which helps to fight off acne. Rich in antioxidants, honey fights dangerous free radicals that harm your skin. It is a natural humectant that absorbs moisture from the air, making your skin smooth and moist.
And it can help break up excess oil (sebum) that might be clogging up your pores, which leads to those annoying pimples.
You’ll get the most benefits using unfiltered, raw honey. And if you’re willing to spend, you can’t beat Manuka honey. This honey is an antibacterial superfood with tons of wound care, and the immune system benefits from the Manuka trees in Australia and New Zealand.
With a jar around and dab the honey on chapped lips, acne, burns, and minor cuts. And if you’re feeling sick and especially if you’re coughing, it helps to take a spoonful or two.
[Also Read: Benefits of Manuka Honey]
Raw honey is just honey that hasn’t been pasteurized. Due to the lack of heating (pasteurization), raw honey is naturally rich in probiotics and antibacterial properties. Honey is also gentle for sensitive skin, but tough enough to remove other impurities and dirt.
Here are some masks that are great to try for an in-home facial. Begin with clean skin and, before applying the mask, lay a wet, warm, washcloth on your face to open up those pores. After rinsing off the mask, clean your face with lukewarm water, or use a toner to close the pores. Then apply good face oil.
Dermatologists love baking soda because it’s both antibacterial and anti-inflammatory. Combine it with soothing honey and exfoliating lemon juice, and you have an effective but gentle mask to help control acne.
[Also Read: Benefits of Honey for Acne]
Although lemon has brightening and lightening qualities, it can also make the skin photosensitive. Rinse your face thoroughly and apply a zinc oxide SPF 30+ sunscreen if you’ll be out in the sun immediately.
Clay masks are fantastic for managing oily skin. Honey helps break up excess oil, and incredibly absorbent clay removes it while gently exfoliating. Moroccan Red and Bentonite are two of the best clay options for balancing the natural oils. And they both have antibacterial properties to combat acne-prone skin.
Directions:
Combine honey, clay, and ACV (apple cider vinegar) in a small nonreactive bowl (do not use metal when using clay). Stir together and gently apply to the neck and face. After 20 minutes, remove the mask first with lukewarm water, then with cool water.
Honey and green tea are two ingredients that each work anti-inflammatory magic on inflammation and skin redness. This soothing combination is gentle enough for sensitive skin (do a patch test if you’re concerned). Both ingredients are potent antioxidants that repair damaged skin and fight free radicals.
Avocado and honey are the perfect combinations of hydrating ingredients for dry skin. Ground almonds gently exfoliate, and their healthful fats leave your skin feeling super soft. If you want to make it even more moisturizing, add one tbsp of oil to the combo.
Directions:
[Also Read: Benefits of Honey for Skin]
Turmeric masks are generally used to reduce the appearance of fine lines and scars or dark spots and even out skin tone. Honey adds a slight bleaching effect while yogurt and lemon juice gently exfoliate to encourage new cell growth and eliminate dead skin.
For more DIY honey skincare ideas, try cinnamon and honey and for brighter skin or honey with cream and cocoa to exfoliate.
We all spend money on skincare products, but sometimes it is okay to skip those expensive serums and spend on pure honey. You can use it to cleanse your face, making a scrub, or treating your skin to a weekly in-house honey mask. Honey is an excellent complement to any skincare routine.