Honey is one of the best natural acne fighting ingredients. Unlike many over-the-counter and prescription acne remedies that can dry and irritate the skin, honey is soothing and can be conveniently applied topically and taken internally.
The antiseptic and antibacterial properties of honey make it a very useful product in the treatment of acne. It is known to kill the bacterium that causes acne. You can apply pure honey to your problem acne after thoroughly cleansing your skin. It is advised to use raw-wild honey (that can be purchased at a natural food organic store) because it is said to be more effective than the commercial ones.
Honey enzymes rejuvenate the skin and act as an antimicrobial. The various reasons that explain the antimicrobial action of honey include its high sugar content, which limits the amount of water available to bacteria for growth; its relatively high acidity (low pH); and its low protein content, which deprives bacteria of nitrogen needed for growth. The presence of hydrogen peroxide and the antioxidants in honey also inhibit bacterial growth.
Honey is also a humectant i.e. it draws and locks in moisture. Using honey treatments for acne will help the skin stay hydrated which promotes softness, elasticity, suppleness and reduces the development of dry skin.
How to use honey for acne treatment?
To make acne disappear forever, mix 3 tablespoons of honey with 1 teaspoon of cinnamon. Apply the paste as a spot treatment wherever you have acne just before bed. Leave it on overnight and rinse it off in the morning. Repeat this procedure for two weeks for great results.
It is ideal to make a honey and almond oil cleansing mask to combat acne and prevent further outbreaks. Mix well 1 tbsp. of almond oil with two spoonfuls of natural honey. Apply a light layer of the cleanser to the affected area, massaging gently in a circular motion. Allow the cleanser to sit for a half an hour and rinse with warm water and a soft cloth. Add a few drops of lemon juice to the cleanser for greasy skin. Start with a small amount and increase depending on the oiliness of the skin.
Another acne remedy involves 1/2 a cup of warm water and a 1/4 teaspoon of salt. It’s best to use a cotton ball to apply directly to the affected area. In order to soften the spot, keep pressure on it for several minutes. Then using a cotton bud, apply the honey on the problem area and leave it on the skin for around 10 minutes. After this time, rinse it off and pat your skin dry.
Another honey facial mask can be made by whisking 1 tablespoon of honey, 1 egg white, 1 teaspoon glycerine and some flour making it into a paste. When this is made smooth over face, don’t forget throat, and leave on for 10 minutes. Then wash off with warm water and pat dry.
A combination of grated apples and a splash of honey, 4 tablespoons to be exact, make a facial mask that can be worn for 10 minutes. The apple should be grated into a fine pulp before adding the honey. It is an ideal remedy for acne.
