Honey for Skin

Since early times, honey has always been a favorite ingredient in most skin care and beauty products. Honey is a rich source of fructose, glucose and also minerals like magnesium, iron, copper, sulphur and vitamins B1, B5 etc. Honey for skin care is highly effective in its pure and natural form as it has the ability to attract and retain water and hence helps in deeply nourishing the skin. Hence honey is sometimes applied directly on the skin on account of its rejuvenating property. Honey is also known for its anti fungal and anti bacterial property hence it acts as a natural antiseptic and aid sin killing bacteria immediately. Therefore honey is sued on mild cuts and abrasions as it helps the wound heal quickly. Bees while making honey tend to add an enzyme called glucose oxidase which produces hydrogen peroxide that is the main anti bacterial agent in honey. Honey is also used to treat minor sunburns as it fights against the damage caused by the UV radiation of the sun. On account of its moisture retaining property honey is an essential ingredient in most sunscreen lotions, moisturizers and other beauty products. Honey for skin is also beneficial if mixed with equal parts of milk and applied all over the body. This mixture if washed off after 20 minutes is known to give the skin a healthy glow. On account of its anti oxidant properties, honey are also protects against skin ageing, wrinkles and skin damage. Since honey contains certain amino acids and enzymes, honey is used commonly for treating skin problems like acne, skin conditions and eczema. Honey is also known to prevent skin discoloration and even brightens dull skin. One of the important factors for the skin to maintain its suppleness, softness and elasticity is its ability to remain hydrated.

As the skin ages, it is subjected to various chemical agents and environmental stresses and thus loses its ability to retain water which in turn makes it develop wrinkles and even becomes dry. In such cases, honey being a humectant attracts and even retains water thereby keeping the skin looking youthful. Honey should not be used on infants who are less than one year old as it may lead to a rare but severe case of food poisoning which may adversely affect the child’s health. Those suffering from the problem of dry skin can also make use of a natural treatment using honey that includes adding ¼ cup of honey to the bath water.