There are several benefits of applying honey on your face.

1. The perfect cleanser

It might be time to change your daily face wash. Honey will open your pores and get rid of those pesky blackheads while keeping your skin hydrated all day long. Wet your face with warm water, use about 1/2 teaspoon of honey and massage it on to your face in a circular motion. Wash it off.

2. Natural exfoliator

Say goodbye to irritated and itchy skin by using a honey face mask that will gently exfoliate. You can also combine other ingredients (avocado, lemon or apple cider vinegar). Spread a thin layer of honey over your skin and leave it on for 8 to 10 minutes before washing with warm water and patting your face dry .

3. Great for treating acne

The anti-inflammatory qualities of honey will help remove excess oil from the surface and if applied every day, will balance the bacteria on your skin. Use it as a spot treatment to calm stubborn breakouts.

4. A hydrating moisturiser

If you are prone to dry or itchy skin, applying honey can have a soothing effect. Honey fights damage from free radicals and pollution with its antioxidant properties and it’s really great for hydrating the skin.

5. Anti-ageing solution

The probiotic and enzymes in honey work together to nourish and plump the skin. Honey retains and rebuilds moisture without making it oily or creating any irritation. While it doesn’t completely eliminate wrinkles it does reduce their appearance.

Is honey good for all kinds of skin?

Honey contains vitamin B, potassium and iron, and helps both oily and dry skin.

What kind of honey works best ?

The darker the honey the more antioxidants it has. So unpasteurised, raw honey is recommended.

The columnist manages Ishrat’s Hair & Skin Studio, Lord Sinha Road, Calcutta. Contact @ishratansar