Sweet and ever-enduring honey is a buzzworthy superfood that never gets spoilt. Kelly Dobos, cosmetic chemist and professor at the University of Cincinnati, says, “Its high sugar concentration and low moisture levels make it inhospitable to bacteria and other microbes, staving off spoilage with ease.”
This is just one of the many beneficial properties of honey that has made it a highly sought-after ingredient for its medicinal properties. Over the centuries, it has been praised for its ability to treat a variety of ailments. Ranging from sore throats to wounds.
Interestingly, honey is also emerging as a powerful ingredient in skincare. A 2017 study by Saeed Samarghandian, associate professor and researcher at Neyshabur University of Medical Sciences in Iran, revealed that honey holds therapeutic potential in the treatment of various health conditions due to its rich phytochemical content, anti-inflammatory effects, antimicrobial properties, and antioxidant abilities.
From Cleopatra to your vanity
A 2013 study published in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology by Dr Bruno Burlando, professor and researcher at the University of Genova, Italy, examined the oldest usage of honey in skincare. Archaeological evidence from Egypt’s predynastic period reveals that nomadic tribes of the Tasian culture utilised honey as an eye cosmetic around 4500 BC. Additionally, various cultural texts such as the Bible, Koran, and Torah also mention the use of honey in cosmetics. In East Asia, Japanese women kept their hands wrinkle-free through the daily use of honey.
Properties of honey in dermatology
Antimicrobial properties of honey: Dr Alpana Mohta, dual board-certified dermatologist and senior resident at Sardar Patel Medical College, Rajasthan says, “Its antimicrobial properties are due to the enzymatic glucose oxidation reaction. It is effective against many types of bacteria and fungi.” Guna Kakulapati, co-founder and CEO of CureSkin, Chennai, says, “It can help reduce the number of acne-causing bacteria on the skin.”
Dr Mohta says, “Manuka honey, has been found to have the highest level of non-peroxide activity which amounts to its antibacterial activity.”
Antioxidant properties of honey: “Honey is rich in phenolic compounds (natural chemicals that are found in certain plants, like fruits and vegetables) which give it its antioxidant properties. These properties make it act as a powerful dietary antioxidant,” says Dr Mohta. Antioxidants protect the skin from harmful free radicals in the environment, which can cause premature ageing and other skin problems.
Anti-inflammatory properties of honey: A 2014 study by Omotayo O Erejuwa provides substantial evidence of honey’s anti-inflammatory abilities. Thus, it is considered as a possible treatment option for several types of cancer, such as breast, liver, and colorectal cancer cell lines. “Honey induces apoptosis in cancer cells, making it a potential treatment option for cancers related to oxidative stress,” adds Dr Mohta.
Skin savvy benefits of honey
Dr Mohta and Kakulapati list out the many benefits and uses of honey:
- Honey is an effective solution for the treatment of burns and wounds. It prevents infections and promote the growth of new tissue, thereby hastening the healing process.
- Its moisturising properties also play a role in keeping the skin hydrated and preventing irritation and dryness.
- When applied on acne scars it helps reduce irritation, sensitivity, and redness. It also promotes recovery and rejuvenation.
- Honey also acts as a gentle exfoliant, removing dead skin cells and revealing a brighter, more radiant complexion.
Can honey work as a natural remedy for acne and other skin conditions?
Dr Mohta, Kakulapati and Dobos say that it can be a natural remedy for acne and other skin conditions. However, they emphasise on considering the severity of the condition and seeking additional treatments if needed. While it is often an ingredient in natural skincare products, it may not be effective for everyone. One should consult a dermatologist for severe acne or other skin conditions. When it comes to treating conditions like acne, it is important to choose properly formulated cosmetics cosmetics. Consider professional help if over-the-counter treatments are not enough.
Consider these factors before use
A 2018 study by researcher Xiaoteng Zhou showed that honey is the third most adulterated food globally. Honey purchased from grocery stores can be diluted with corn syrup or other sugars. Over time it crystallises, altering its properties. Dobos cautions that raw, unprocessed honey may contain unpleasant elements like bee parts and mold fragments. Dr Mohta and Kakulapati stress the importance of using high-quality, pure, raw honey for topical applications. They say, “To avoid potential irritation or allergic reactions, it is essential to look for pure honey that is free from artificial additives and preservatives.”
- Remember to do a patch test before applying it as a facemask to ensure there is no adverse reaction.
- Consider the source and opt for raw and organic one for maximum benefits.
- Keep in mind that different varieties of honey have different properties.
- Store it away from direct sunlight and at room temperature, to retain its beneficial properties.
