Honey is so much more than just sugar, and the wide-reaching benefits of honey prove it. Everything about this golden goop boosts beauty, both internally and externally. We’re not ready to try the bee sting facial just yet (yes, that’s a real thing), but we’re more than ready to use honey – a potent antibacterial and anti-inflammatory – for these three simple beauty ideas to get our skin purified, plumped and glowing!
Honey contributes to a younger, smoother complexion without any additions or additives, and is perfect for every skin type. The beautifying benefits of honey can be experienced by even the most sensitive, delicate, inflamed or acne-prone skin. Be sure to use raw, unprocessed honey and your beauty routine will never be the same…
3 Ways Honey Can Beautify Your Skin
For Acne + Irritation:
Honey is a potent antibiotic and antibacterial that acts both internally and externally. Externally, it works to disinfect as well as heal wounds, burns, eczema, acne and other skin irritations. One of the leading causes of acne is bacteria in the pores, so using a potent yet gentle antibacterial such as honey is incredibly effective in treating sensitive or acne-prone skin.
Manuka Honey Spot Treatment:
A little goes a long way. Simply replace your face wash with honey. Apply about 1 teaspoon of honey to the face and skin and gently massage the in small circular motions. For more pore-penetration, simply allow the honey to remain on skin for a longer period of time before rinsing.
For spot treatment, simply apply honey to inflamed area and let sit for about 20 minutes before rinsing.
For a more potent treatment, use Manuka honey, which contains more antibacterial properties than regular honey, as well as hydrogen peroxide from the Manuka tree or tea tree that the bees feed on.
For Anti-aging:
Honey is full of probiotics, antioxidants, nutrients and enzymes, making it incredibly nourishing and the perfect aid in anti-aging – both internally and externally. Used alone it is an effective way to help plump and hydrate the skin, and prevent free-radical damage. Adding other potent superfoods, like turmeric, compliments and strengthens honey’s anti-aging powers.
Honey Turmeric Anti-Aging Mask:
1 egg white
1 tsp raw honey
1 probiotic capsule, opened
1 turmeric capsule, opened
Combine all ingredients well and massage over the face and neck. Allow to sit for about 20-30 minutes, then rinse.
Hydrate + Exfoliate:
Honey’s naturally occurring probiotics and enzymes make it a wonderful exfoliator without stripping the skin of moisture or its sensitive oil barrier. Honey is a potent humectant- meaning it can both draw out and retain moisture, hydrating and plumping the skin – making it gentle enough to use daily to promote clear, bright skin without drying.
Yogurt Honey Hydrating Scrub:
2 Tbsp of raw honey
1 Tbsp yogurt (optional)
1 Tbsp almond or coconut oil
For the face: 1/4 cup baking soda
For the body: 1/4 cup fine coffee grinds
Combine all ingredients and gently massage over the face and or body, paying particular attention to rough or dry areas and using the appropriate exfoliant. Allow to remain on skin for a few minutes and rinse. Skin should be smooth, soft and hydrated.
Final Note: The type of honey used is equally important. Be sure to source ethically and use raw, unprocessed honey that still has its enzymes intact. Try one of our favorites, Tahi Manuka honey.
