Is Honey Good for Acne?

Is Honey Good for Acne?
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Acne is an embarrassing and distressing problem that can lead to permanent scarring. Home treatments, such as washing twice daily, keeping your hair off your face, and avoiding skin irritants, will help you lessen the effects of acne, according to the Mayo Clinic The application of antibacterial substances will help kill bacteria and lessen the chance of acne. Honey, which has natural antibacterial properties, has been used for thousands of years to treat skin ailments. Consult a doctor for more information.

What Causes Acne?

Acne develops when your pores becoming blocked by dirt or a build up of dead skin cells. The oil your body naturally produces cannot escape through blocked pores and it builds up beneath the skin, creating acne. The risk of acne is increased by excess bacteria buildup on the skin and increased oil production from hormone fluctuations, says the Mayo Clinic.

How Can Honey Help?

Honey has antibacterial properties that can help cleanse your face and lessen the risk of acne. If applied regularly, alongside a regular skin-cleansing routine, honey might help lessen or prevent acne, according to Maryanne Lurker, author of "Homemade Acne Treatments." For best results, purchase a quality honey that has not undergone excess processing that could reduce its beneficial properties.

Honey Skin Mask

To make a basic honey skin mask, you will need approximately 3 tbsp. of organic honey that has been warmed up in a microwave set to high for 10 seconds. Dip your fingers into the honey and gently rub it over your skin, covering the entire affected area. Allow the honey to rest on your skin for 10 minutes and rinse it away with lukewarm water. Ensure you wash away all the honey; it will collect dirt and bacteria on your skin if allowed to remain.

How Often To Use Honey

Apply the honey skin mask three to five times a week for best results. Follow a regular routine and within three to four weeks, you should see less acne, says Lurker. If you would like to apply the skin mask more often, you will not harm anything by doing so. The honey skin mask is safe to apply up to twice daily if you desire. However, an effective cleansing routine should make this frequency of application unnecessary.

References

Article reviewed by Molly Solanki Last updated on: Jul 22, 2011

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