Honey may be most commonly enjoyed as a sweet addition to tea and toast. But did you know that it has been used topically for centuries to address a wide range of skin issues, thanks to its anti-inflammatory and medicinal properties? Rich in antioxidants, anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory benefits, honey is one of nature’s purest and most healing salves. Read on to find out what honey does for your skin and how this golden nectar can sweeten up your skin care routine.

Different Types Of Honey

There are over 300 varieties of honey, each with its own unique properties, and health and nutritional benefits — many of which are determined by the geographical area where the bees live and the type of flowers involved in the process. Much of the honey you see on grocery store shelves has been pasteurized, meaning it has been exposed to high temperatures with the goal of extending shelf life and removing impurities and air bubbles. Pasteurized honey will therefore contain fewer antioxidants, amino acids, vitamins, minerals and healthy enzymes than honey in its raw and unpasteurized state. Raw honey offers more powerful health benefits, both when ingested as food and when used topically for beauty or medicinal purposes. It is also readily available at grocery stores — just read the labels and look for “raw” or “unpasteurized” options. 

Healing And Medicinal Properties Of Honey 

Honey has been used in medicine for thousands of years. You have probably tried it yourself to soothe a sore throat or calm a cough. It is also commonly used topically for skin issues including eczema, psoriasis and even wound healing. According to Healthline, “Medical grade honey applied to the skin has been shown to help people with chronic and non-healing wounds because honey speeds up your skin cells’ healing processes.” Medical honey has anti-bacterial, anti-inflammatory and even anti-odor properties that make it a safe and gentle way to heal the skin. 

Who Should Avoid Honey?

While honey is commonly used in kitchens all over the world, those with allergies to honey, bees and/or pollen should refrain from using or ingesting honey. Raw or unpasteurized honey should not be given to children under a year old.  

 So Is Honey Good For Your Skin?

The answer is yes! Honey’s benefits for the skin are numerous. Here are some of the ways to use honey in your skin care routine: 

As A Moisturizer

Honey’s natural humectant properties make it an effective moisturizer. The enzyme activity in honey enables it to penetrate deeply into the skin and bring hydration to the underlying layers. This results in plumper, softer skin with a natural, radiant glow. Eminence Organic Skin Care uses honey as a moisturizing and nourishing ingredient in spa treatments like the Menthol Rosehip Treatment, the Paprika Herbal Treatment and the Herbal Cellulite Treatment.

To Add A Youthful Glow To The Face 

Honey draws moisture from the air and binds it to the skin. This added hydration gives the skin a fresh, youthful glow and suppleness, making fine lines and wrinkles less noticeable. Honey also contains natural antioxidants that fight free radicals, one of the leading causes of premature aging.

NUVO Magazine describes our honey-enhanced Birch Water Purifying Essence as “a touch of nature on your face.” The lightweight essence also contains mushroom extracts and botanical collagen to help hydrate the skin and reduce the look of fine lines.

To Cleanse Pores And Gently Exfoliate

Honey is naturally antibacterial and exfoliating, making it an effective natural pore cleanser for removing dirt and debris that may clog the pores and contribute to skin issues.

To Help Fade The Appearance Of Scars 

Honey contains a tiny amount of hydrogen peroxide. This gives it mild fading properties, which can help to reduce acne scars and even hyperpigmentation over time. These same properties also make honey an effective choice for brightening a dull complexion.

To Help Fight Acne And Breakouts

Honey’s anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory properties can help control acne and breakouts by reducing the bacteria that cause pimples, blackheads and whiteheads. These “anti” heroes also help to treat the redness and inflammation associated with breakouts.

To Soothe A Sunburn

While avoiding a sunburn should always be the goal, if you find yourself a little red from a day at the beach, honey makes a great natural remedy. When applied in a thin layer to a sunburn on your face or body, honey can help pain, swelling and inflammation subside within about 15-30 minutes. Sweet relief!

Have you found that honey is good for your skin? Share your stories about how honey benefits your skin with us on social media.