Honey has well-known antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties and has been used as a treatment for wounds and other skin problems throughout history. In fact, the Clinical Infectious Diseases Journal reported that honey has even been shown to kill certain drug-resistant strains of bacteria. Some countries, like Australia, have officially approved honey for medical use.
Honey is effective at healing acne because it attacks two of the main issues associated with this condition: bacteria and swelling. The antibacterial qualities of the honey kill the bacteria that start breakouts. The anti-inflammatory properties of the honey then reduce redness and swelling, making your skin look and feel better.
To use honey for acne treatment, it is important to use the right kind of honey. You want to ensure you buy organic honey that has not been processed. Processed honeys have lost much of their antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties and will not help. Manuka honey, for example, is a popular option used by many natural remedy seekers. Many claim that this type of honey has significant antibacterial and wound-healing properties, and it is promoted for use as an acne treatment. Check your local farmer’s market or health food store for organic and preferably local honey options.
How to Use Honey to Treat Acne
Using honey to treat acne is simple. All you need to do is gently rub the honey onto troublesome areas. The heat of your hands will help soften the honey while you gently rub it into your skin. Do not heat the honey before using, as heating can affect the natural healing properties. Leave the honey on your skin for about 15 minutes, then gently rinse off. Apply daily to troublesome areas. Many users start to see results in about a week.Before using honey, it is important to know that some people can be allergic to certain components found in honey. Therefore, test the honey on a small portion of skin around the neck area to ensure you are not allergic. If you experience any type of allergic reaction, stop using the honey.
Honey is just one of the many natural home remedies for acne and clear skin. However, it is one of the most popular and well-studied remedies that has thousands of years of backing. If you are looking for a good natural product to add to your skincare routine, consider the wonderful antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties of natural honey for acne treatment.
Let's first start with what acne is: Acne can be caused by bacteria that lives on your skin. It clogs your sebaceous glands. These are glands that produce sebum, which is an oil that is necessary for the lubrication and pH level of your skin.
Honey is a natural antibacterial and anti-septic. This means, when it is applied topically to your skin, it can help cure acne. The antibacterial properties in honey help rid your skin from harmful acne causing bacteria. This in turn prevents your pores from clogging and pus (bacteria) from forming. IT will also help reduce redness and swelling.
Cinnamon is a spice that is found in everyday foods such as curry in the East, and sweet foods (sweet rolls). It is a versatile spice and can be used in cooking salty foods or sweet foods. Cinnamon has microbial properties that can help stop the growth of bacteria and fungi on your skin.
This combined with the power of honey helps make cinnamon and honey clear acne.
Please make sure you're not allergic to any of these ingredients before trying them.
Ingredients:
- 2 tbsp of honey (This is one of the best kind you can use: Manuka Honey Active UMF 18+ Certified East Cape New Zealand) Read more about why Manuka Honey is good for you.
- 1 tsp of cinnamon
Mix the honey and the cinnamon together so it blends well. Before applying this mask make sure your face is clear of any makeup etc. If you do have some on, rinse your face with warm water and pat dry.
Apply this mask to your face using your fingertips. Take this opportunity to massage your face and help increase circulation. This mask is sticky so keep some napkins close by. Keep it on your face for about 10-15 minutes. If it starts to burn or itch take it off. Please test an area first to make sure that you aren't allergic to the honey or cinnamon on your face.
Rinse off and pat dry. Remember to use a toner. If you don't have one, you can use lemon juice as a toner.
