Honey for Acne

According to the Clinical Infectious Diseases journal, Chicago, 2008, honey comprises certain properties which are able to fight even the drug-resistant strains of bacteria. It disinfects the skin by releasing low levels of hydrogen peroxide.

Therefore, applying honey to a pimple can stop the growth of bacterial infection in the pores. Also, its anti-inflammatory properties help prevent the swelling and redness of the acne. It also helps moisturize the skin, and therefore it is beneficial for dry skin.

Manuka honey, which is produced from the nectar of the manuka bush, is the best variety for treating acne. Studies have shown that this honey has more antibacterial properties from the rest of the varieties. If this honey is not available, then use raw honey, which is unfiltered, opaque, and thick compared to the regular one.

The best results are obtained when natural, raw, unprocessed, and unheated honey with no added ingredients is used for the treatment. This is due to the fact that heated or honey mixed with water loses its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. You can prepare various honey masks to treat acne. Before applying the mask for the first time, do a patch test to ensure that you are not allergic to it.

Simply apply the raw honey onto the affected skin with your hands. If it feels too thick, then keep it on your palm for sometime so that it melts due to body heat. Do not heat the honey as it will render it useless. After you have worked upon the area, let it stay there for 15 minutes before you rinse it off with lukewarm water. Continue this treatment daily for better results.

Make a paste by mixing 1 tbsp. of almond oil with 2 tbsp. of raw, natural honey. Massage this paste on your face in a circular motion and allow it to sit for about half an hour. You can also add a few drops of fresh lemon juice into this solution if you have oily skin. Rinse your face with lukewarm water and pat dry your skin. Remember, this treatment takes some days to yield the desired results. Therefore, follow it regularly.

An alternative method to treat acne is to use honey-based creams and soaps.

The aforementioned remedies take time to show results. Therefore, they must be practiced regularly. Although they could be less effective than medications, they treat the problem naturally without causing any side effects.

Disclaimer: This story is for informative purposes only, and should not be used as a replacement for expert medical advice.