Quick Answers
Yes, you can use pure, raw, unprocessed honey on your face. Honey has natural antibacterial, antimicrobial, and hydrating properties that can benefit skin. Using honey masks or spot treatments can help cleanse pores, reduce acne, moisturize skin, and brighten complexion. Make sure to use clean hands and equipment to avoid contaminating honey. Perform a patch test first to check for allergic reaction. Honey is generally safe for most skin types, but those with sensitive skin should exercise caution.
Is it Safe to Put Honey on Your Face?
Pure, raw honey that has not been heat-treated or pasteurized is generally considered safe to apply to the face. Honey is naturally antimicrobial, containing enzymes like glucose oxidase that break down the cell walls of bacteria and fungi. It also has anti-inflammatory properties and antioxidants that can benefit skin health and appearance.
Honey from reputable sources is unlikely to cause adverse reactions for most people. However, some individuals may be allergic or sensitive to the pollens or other compounds in honey. Perform a patch test on a small area of skin before applying honey masks or treatments to your entire face.
To use honey safely, make sure hands and application tools are clean to avoid contaminating the honey. Store honey in a sealed container away from moisture and heat. Dilute with water if applying pure honey causes stickiness or irritation. Avoid putting honey near eyes or open wounds. Monitor for signs of allergic reaction like redness, swelling, or itching.
What Are the Benefits of Using Honey on Your Face?
There are many skin benefits associated with using raw honey topically:
Antibacterial Properties
Honey contains enzymes and compounds that have antimicrobial effects against common bacteria implicated in acne like Propionibacterium and Staphylococcus. Applying raw honey can destroy bacteria on the skin’s surface and within pores to reduce breakouts.
Hydration
Honey is humectant, meaning it attracts and retains moisture. Using honey masks or spot treatments helps skin stay hydrated, plump, and youthful looking. The sugars and vitamins in honey nourish the skin.
Reduces Inflammation
Compounds like flavonoids make honey a natural anti-inflammatory. It can decrease swelling, redness, and irritation associated with acne, rosacea, eczema, and dermatitis.
Wound Healing
Applying medical-grade honey to minor cuts, burns, or scabs may speed up the wound healing process and prevent infections. The antibacterial properties keep the area clean while the viscosity provides a protective barrier.
Exfoliation
The gritty texture of raw honey can provide gentle exfoliation to slough off dead skin cells clogging pores. Pair it with ingredients like lemon juice or sugar to boost exfoliating effects.
Brightening Skin
Honey contains enzymes like glucose oxidase that may brighten and even out skin tone. Antioxidants help protect against UV damage that can cause hyperpigmentation. Regular use can fade spots and scars over time.
How to Use Honey on Your Face
Here are some ways to incorporate raw honey into your skincare routine:
Honey Face Mask
Mix 1 tablespoon honey with a pinch of cinnamon or lemon juice. Apply a thin layer all over a clean face. Leave on for 10-15 minutes then rinse with warm water. Use 1-2 times per week.
Spot Treatment for Acne
Dab a small amount of honey directly onto blemishes using a cotton swab. Let sit for at least 30 minutes before rinsing. The antimicrobial properties help clear pores and reduce inflammation.
Lip Exfoliant and Moisturizer
Stir 1 teaspoon honey with a pinch of brown sugar. Gently rub on lips in circular motions. Rinse then apply a light layer of honey to hydrate.
Under Eye Treatment
Honey’s skin conditioning properties helps reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles around the delicate eye area. Apply a thin coating under eyes. Leave on for 20-30 minutes then rinse.
Facial Cleanser
Wet face with warm water. Massage in a teaspoon of honey using circular motions. Rinse thoroughly with warm water. Follow with toner and moisturizer. Use a few times per week.
Healing Mask for Irritated Skin
Combine 1 tablespoon honey with 1 teaspoon aloe vera gel. Apply to face for 15-20 minutes then rinse. Soothes redness and inflammation.
Honey Varieties for Skin
Some honeys have particular properties that make them well-suited for skincare:
Manuka Honey
Manuka honey from New Zealand has a high concentration of methylglyoxal that increases its antibacterial effects. Look for medical grade 10+ UMF ratings.
Raw Honey
Raw, unprocessed honey maintains the widest spectrum of antioxidants, enzymes, vitamins and other beneficial compounds from the hive.
Local Honey
Using honey produced in your geographic area may help reduce seasonal allergies. Pick up at farmer’s markets.
Clover Honey
This monofloral honey has a pleasant mild flavor. It blends smoothly and rinses cleanly.
Wildflower Honey
Honey made from a variety of wildflower pollens provides diverse antioxidants and nutrients. Great all-purpose choice.
Precautions for Using Honey
Keep these safety tips in mind when using honey on your skin:
- Perform a patch test before applying honey masks or treatments to your entire face. Wait 24 hours to check for reaction.
- Dilute with water if pure honey feels excessively sticky or causes sensitivity on your skin.
- Avoid putting honey near your eyes or other mucus membranes.
- Rinse thoroughly after use to prevent stickiness.
- Store honey in an airtight container away from direct sunlight and heat.
- Do not apply expired honey as it may contain toxins.
- Use clean applicators like cotton swabs or spoons. Do not contaminate the honey jar.
- See a dermatologist if you experience persistent irritation, rash, or swelling after using honey.
Who Should Not Use Honey?
Honey is not recommended for certain individuals:
- Babies under 1 year old due to risk of Clostridium botulinum infection.
- Those allergic to pollen or bee products like bee venom, royal jelly, or propolis.
- People with wounds or broken skin where applying honey may delay healing or cause infection.
- Individuals taking Roaccutane or topical retinoids as honey may increase skin irritation.
Can I Leave Honey on My Face Overnight?
It is generally safe to leave raw honey on the face overnight unless it causes irritation. Honey is naturally moisturizing, so it prevents the skin from drying out. Its humectant properties help skin stay hydrated and supple.
Overnight honey masks allow more time for the antioxidants and antimicrobial compounds to work on the skin. Rinsing in the morning reveals smoother, more radiant skin. Always patch test honey for an allergic reaction before applying all over the face and leaving it on for extended periods.
Here are some overnight honey mask recipes to try:
- 1 tablespoon honey + 1 teaspoon plain yogurt
- 1 tablespoon honey + 1 teaspoon rice flour
- 1 tablespoon honey + 2 teaspoons aloe vera gel
Conclusion
Raw honey can be an effective ingredient in a facial skincare regimen. It provides antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties that cleanse pores, treat acne, increase moisture retention, and brighten complexion. Honey from quality sources is well-tolerated by most skin types. Perform a patch test before wider application. Store honey properly, use clean tools, and take care to avoid the eyes. With responsible use, honey can become a regular part of your skincare routine for better skin health and appearance.