If you have oily skin you know the struggle to select the best skincare products is real! People with oily skin easily develop acne, clogged pores, blackheads, and greasy skin. When the skin generates too much sebum, it attracts dirt and bacteria, leading to additional skin problems. One natural ingredient that can work for you is honey! Packed with antioxidants and antibacterial properties, honey can regulate oil production, reduce acne, and improve overall skin health. If you have not tried it already, you should try honey for oily skin and get rid of all the problems.

What is honey?

Honey is a natural sweetener produced by bees from the nectar of flowers. This process transforms the nectar into honey which has paved its way to many skincare products. Honey has a golden colour and a slightly floral aroma, although its exact flavour can vary, depending on the types of flowers used to make it. This viscous, golden liquid is rich in antibacterial, antifungal, and moisturising properties, found a study published in the Pharmacognosy Research. It also contains various compounds like glucose, fructose, and amino acids, making it a versatile ingredient for food and skincare.

Honey can work wonders for your skin. Image courtesy: Freepik

Honey for oily skin: How does it help?

Honey is beneficial for oily skin due to its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, as found in a study published in the Asian Pacific Journal of Tropical Biomedicine. “It helps to regulate oil production by killing harmful bacteria that contribute to acne breakouts. Additionally, honey also contains humectant qualities that attract moisture to the skin, preventing it from drying out and overcompensating by producing more oil. This balanced approach helps to reduce excess oiliness and improve the overall texture of oily skin,” says dermatologist Dr DM Mahajan.

How to use honey for oily skin?

Here is a complete guide on how to use honey for oily skin, as suggested by the expert.

1. Honey and oatmeal face mask

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon of honey
• 1/4 cup oatmeal (ground or rolled)
• 1 tablespoon warm water

Method:

• In a small bowl, mix the honey, oatmeal, and warm water until a smooth paste forms.
• Gently apply the mask to your clean, damp face, avoiding the eye area.
• Massage the mask into your skin in circular motions for a few minutes.
• Leave the mask on for 10-15 minutes, or until it dries completely.
• Rinse the mask off with warm water, gently massaging your skin as you rinse.
• Pat your face dry with a clean towel.
• Apply a moisturiser to your face to lock in the moisture.

This mask helps to soothe and exfoliate your skin.

2. Honey and lemon juice toner

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon of honey
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

Method:

• In a small bowl, mix the honey and lemon juice together until well combined.
• Using your fingertips or a cotton pad, gently apply the mixture to your freshly cleansed face, avoiding the eye area.
• Massage the toner into your skin in circular motions for a few minutes.
• Rinse your face with lukewarm water.
• Gently pat your face dry with a clean towel.

This mask helps to balance pH and reduces oil.

3. Honey and cinnamon face pack

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon of honey
• 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon powder.

Method:

• In a small bowl, mix the honey and cinnamon together until well combined.
• Apply the mixture evenly to your cleansed face, avoiding the eye area.
• Let the mask sit for 15-20 minutes, or until it feels dry.
• Rinse your face thoroughly with lukewarm water.
• Gently pat your face dry with a clean towel.

This mask helps to reduce acne and inflammation.

4. Honey and yoghurt face mask

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon of honey
• 2 tablespoons of plain yoghurt

Method:

• In a small bowl, mix the honey and yoghurt together until well combined.
• Apply the mixture evenly to your cleansed face, avoiding the eye area.
• Let the mask sit for 15-20 minutes, or until it feels dry.
• Rinse your face thoroughly with lukewarm water.
• Gently pat your face dry with a clean towel.

This mask helps to cool and hydrate the skin.

5. Honey and green tea toner

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup of brewed green tea, cooled
• 1 tablespoon of honey

Method:

• In a small bowl, mix the cooled green tea and honey together until well combined.
• Using a cotton pad, apply the toner to your freshly cleansed face, avoiding the eye area.
• Gently massage the toner into your skin in circular motions.
• Allow the toner to dry on your skin for a few minutes.
• Rinse your face with lukewarm water.
• Gently pat your face dry with a clean towel.

Rich in antioxidant and astringent properties helps to tighten and tone your pores.

6. Honey and sugar scrub

Ingredients:

• 1/4 cup of granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons of honey
• 1 tablespoon of olive oil (or another carrier oil)

Method:

• In a small bowl, mix the sugar, honey, and olive oil together until well combined.
• Apply the scrub to your wet skin, focusing on areas that need exfoliation (like your face, neck, and hands).
• Gently massage the scrub into your skin in circular motions for a few minutes.
• Rinse your skin thoroughly with lukewarm water.
• Gently pat your skin dry with a clean towel.

This mask helps to exfoliate and moisturise the skin.

7. Honey and aloe vera gel mask

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon of honey
• 2 tablespoons of aloe vera gel

Method:

• In a small bowl, mix the honey and aloe vera gel together until well combined.
• Apply the mixture evenly to your cleansed face, avoiding the eye area.
• Let the mask sit for 15-20 minutes, or until it feels dry.
• Rinse your face thoroughly with lukewarm water.
• Gently pat your face dry with a clean towel.
• This mask helps to soothe and hydrate your skin.

Use honey mask to get rid oily skin problems. Image courtesy: Adobe Stock

Who should avoid honey for oily skin?

Honey is generally safe for Individuals with oily skin. However, certain people should avoid honey due to the following reasons.

• Severe allergies to bee products or honey.
• Sensitive skin that reacts to natural ingredients.
• Open wounds or cuts on the skin.
• Rosacea or eczema may exacerbate conditions.

Note: Remember to patch tests and start with small amounts to ensure honey suits your skin. Also, consult with your doctor before using honey for oily skin.

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