The beauty power of honey

When I recently ran out of my usual cleanser I decided to look for an alternative in the kitchen. I have plenty of raw honey in the kitchen so this seemed to be the best choice.

Ordinary facial cleansers and soaps may strip the skin of its protective oils, while honey gently removes dirt leaving the skin moisturised. Raw honey has natural antibacterial properties and enzymes which are good for the skin and prevent it from breaking out. It works well on all skin types by balancing oily skin and moisturising dry skin.

Usage Wet your face with warm water. Place a small amount of honey on your palms, rub your hands together and massage it into your skin. Alternatively, you could apply the honey directly onto your skin as this is less messier. Leave it on for a few minutes before rinsing out with warm water.

Raw honey should sit on your face without dripping off. Unlike oil cleansing, honey does not remove make-up. If you wear make-up, use a different cleansing method at night and the honey cleansing method in the morning.

Benefits This method cleanses naturally without chemicals and can be used as a cleanser, exfoliator, or face mask. It removes dead skin cells and blackheads, while healing and moisturising the skin. Honey cleansing is touted as an excellent cleansing solution for those with acne, however, if your acne is due to internal issues, it may not make much of a difference.

Exfoliation Mix three teaspoons of honey with half a teaspoon of cinnamon. Apply this on the face and leave for ten minutes. Rinse with warm water and moisturise. Cinnamon may occasionally irritate sensitive skin.

Hydration Mix an equal amount of honey, avocado, and plain yoghurt. Spread the mixture on your face and let it sit for 20-30 minutes before washing off. This is a good face mask for those with dry skin.

Sensitive skin Mix two teaspoons of honey with one teaspoon of aloe vera gel. Leave it on the face for ten minutes and wash off. Aloe vera soothes inflammation and calms the skin.

Scarred skin Combine two teaspoons of honey with half a teaspoon of lemon juice and apply to your face. Leave it on for 20-30 minutes before rinsing off. Lemon exfoliates and brightens the skin while fading scars.

Look for raw honey that hasn’t been filtered or heated to high temperatures. Processed honey will not benefit your skin in any way and it could aggravate sensitive skin.

Always do a patch test by applying a small amount of product to your jawline to confirm if you are allergic or sensitive. If rashes appear or you feel itchy, then avoid the product.