Local bees collect pollen from local plants. Raw honey has anti-viral, anti-bacterial, and anti-fungal properties that promote digestive and skin health. Raw, local honey has all the same properties. However, since local bees collect pollen from local plants, it’s believed to have the added bonus of strengthening your immunity and reducing pollen allergy symptoms. That means less itching and fewer seasonal rashes. Here are four ways to use your raw, local honey for beautiful skin.  

No chemical burden to your body

If you’ve ever thought about using honey in your skincare routine, consider this. Your skin is the largest organ on your body, and 60 percent of what you put on it can pass into your organs, cells, and bloodstream relatively fast — in less than one minute. In fact, studies from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) suggest that chemicals can pass through your skin virtually unnoticed. Actually, what you may not know is that your skin is one of the most important pathways for chemical exposure. That’s where honey comes in. Raw, local honey is a safe, natural food-grade product that doesn’t place a chemical burden on your body. Here’s why you may want to consider adding it to your skincare routine.  

It makes a gentle yet effective skin cleanser

Slathering sticky honey on your face might seem counterproductive, but in reality, it’s not. It rinses clean and leaves your skin fresh and vibrant. In fact, there are many benefits to washing your face daily with raw, local honey, such as:   

• It’s perfect for healing acne-prone skin thanks to its antiseptic and anti-bacterial properties. It also pulls dirt and bacteria away from clogged pores, which helps prevent acne.
• Raw honey is teeming with antioxidants that boost collagen production, which not only promotes glowing skin but also helps prevent the signs of aging.
• Being a humectant, raw honey is very moisturizing and can soothe and hydrate even severly dry skin. One study found that honey is ideal for soothing the skin and drawing in moisture.
• Raw honey contains enzymes that work to gently exfoliate dead skin cells, leaving skin beautifully radiant.

Here’s how to wash your face with honey

1. Begin by removing your makeup. If possible, use natural oil.
2. Rinse your face with warm water.
3. Use about a 1/2 tsp of honey and rub it into the palms of your hand.
4. Massage the honey onto your face and neck gently. Keep in mind; raw honey should not go into your eyes.
5. Rinse with warm water to remove the honey.
6. Follow with your favorite natural moisturizer.

Moisturizing facial mask

Apply your raw honey directly onto your skin and leave it on for about 20 minutes. Rinse it off well with warm water. Not only will it gently exfoliate and soften your skin, but it will also help prevent breakouts by clearing your pores.

Ideal for soothing sunburn, minor cuts, and scrapes

Historically, honey has always been recognized around the globe for its healing properties, with records of its therapeutic use dating back to 2000 B.C. Actually, the ancient Egyptians and Greeks used local raw honey to treat their burns and skin wounds by applying it topically — and for a good reason. Studies suggest that honey can regulate the skin’s immune system. In fact, clinical research shows that honey promotes the healing of sunburns, minor cuts, and scrapes.

Try this remedy for sunburn and burns using local raw honey

Raw honey contains three powerful parts for healing burnt skin:

1. Sugar, a natural humectant that soothes the skin
2. Propolis, a sealant that kills bacteria.
3. Glucose oxidase, an enzyme that breaks down and produces hydrogen peroxide, acting as a disinfectant.

Simply mix together a half-cup of local raw honey and one cup of milk. Rub the mixture on sunburnt or burnt skin and leave on for as long as possible. Reapply as needed to ease pain and promote healing. For minor cuts and scrapes, apply it topically. As the honey dries, it will form a natural bandage.  

Fades scars, discoloration, and stretch marks

Raw honey’s ability to naturally heal and nurture damaged skin helps fade scars, discoloration, and stretch marks. Keep a jar of raw honey in your shower, and use it daily. Simply massage it directly onto the scarred or affected area, in a circular motion, for about one to two minutes. Then, rinse it off.

Raw honey warnings

While honey allergy is extremely rare, it can pose a serious health risk for some according to research. Anaphylaxis is a severe allergic reaction to honey. If you or someone else experiences the following symptoms from raw honey exposure, seek medical attention asap: Trouble breathing or shortness of breath, wheezing, throat, mouth or face swelling, rash, cramping, vomiting, or nausea, dizziness, or fainting.  

-The UpWellness Team