The Natural Moisturizing Qualities of Honey
by the National Honey Board
Throughout
the centuries, legendary beauties have used honey as part of their
skin and hair care treatments. Cleopatra was famous for her milk
and honey baths, and Poppea, wife of Roman Emperor Nero, used
a honey and milk lotion on her face to keep her looking youthful.
By the time cosmetics were beginning to be mass produced in the
late 1800s, honey was a popular ingredient. Today, manufacturers
are increasingly using honey in skin moisturizers, facial masks,
hair conditioners and shower gels in response to consumer demand
for more natural formulations.
Did you know!
All-natural honey is an effective treatment for minor
abrasions and burns. A recent review of medical research documents
its effectiveness as an antimicrobial agent.
A Natural Moisturizer
The skin’s ability to stay hydrated is an important factor
in its ability to maintain softness, suppleness and elasticity.
As skin ages, or as it is exposed to environmental stresses and
chemical agents, it loses this ability to retain water, becomes
dry and appears wrinkled. Honey is a humectant, which means it
attracts and retains water. So honey is a natural fit for a variety
of moisturizing products including cleansers, creams, shampoos
and conditioners. Because honey is also an anti-irritant, it is
suitable for sensitive skin and baby care products.
Skin Softening Bath
Add ¼ cup honey to bath water for a fragrant, silky bath.
Hair
Shine
Stir 1 teaspoon honey into 4 cups (1 quart) warm water.
Blondes may wish to add a squeeze of lemon. After shampooing,
pour mixture through hair. Do not rinse out. Dry as normal.
Alpha Hydroxy Acids
Research is currently underway to develop a process using
honey to create alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs). AHAs are an important
ingredient in many skin creams and moisturizers because they help
exfoliate the skin. Increased exfoliation, or renewal of the skin
cells, gives skin a younger, more vibrant look. Exfoliation can
also cause skin irritation so honey’s natural moisturizing ability
makes it a perfect fit for AHA products.
Moisture Mask
Mix 2 tablespoons honey with 2 teaspoons milk. Smooth over face
and throat. Leave on for 10 minutes. Rinse off with warm water.
Smoothing Skin Lotion
Mix 1 teaspoon honey with 1 teaspoon vegetable oil and ¼ teaspoon
lemon. Rub into hands, elbows, heels and anywhere that feels dry.
Leave on for 10 minutes. Rinse off with water.
Antioxidants
Preliminary studies have also revealed that honey has
significant natural antioxidant properties. Antioxidants play
a role in protecting the skin from the damage of UV rays and in
aiding in skin rejuvenation. Prolonged exposure to the sun’s UV
radiation can cause skin damage, premature aging and even skin
cancer. Because chemical and physical barrier sunscreens can cause
skin irritation, companies are researching the use of antioxidants,
anti-irritants and moisturizers in their sun care products. The
natural properties of honey make it ideal for these products.
Look for honey to appear in the ingredient statements of more
and more cosmetics, sunscreens and skin care products.
Firming
Face Mask
Whisk together 1 tablespoon honey, 1 egg white, 1 teaspoon glycerin
and enough flour to form a paste. (Approximately ¼ cup). Smooth
over face and throat. Leave on for 10 minutes. Rinse off with
warm water.
