Since ancient times, honey has been consumed for its nutritional and medicinal benefits. It was also widely used as a natural remedy for treating wounds because of its healing properties owing largely to its anti-bacterial activity. Just recently, I read a historical novel set in the Medieval times (yes, I read such books). For the first time, I learned about the use of honey in treating burns and fending off infection. Also, there was an article I read recently of the use of honey (combined with flour) in removing lipomas naturally and safely.

Honey is mostly composed of sugars, water, acids, proteins, amino acids, and minerals. Because of its complex composition, honey exhibits many interesting properties. These same properties are now being fully utilized in skin and hair care applications.

Honey is a natural moisturizer and softener. When applied to the skin, it imparts softness and smoothness with a refreshing feel. The same moisturizing and softening properties also find their use in hair conditioners, imparting silkiness to hair and in hair treatments as these help prevent hair fall and strengthen hair follicles.

As mentioned above, honey also possesses antimicrobial as well as wound-healing properties. In skin care applications, these promote the skin’s ability to rejuvenate and replenish damaged or depleted skin, leaving it feeling silky soft and supple. In hair care, this anti-bacterial property works to prevent scalp infections, promoting healthy hair growth.

Because of its high viscosity, honey is a great vehicle for facial and body scrubs. It is easily rinsed off with water without leaving a greasy feel. Honey should be a staple in spa products.

Applications:

• Skin care: anti-aging, sun care, facial and body scrubs
• Hair care: shampoos, conditioners, hair treatments, tonics, leave-on conditioners

References:

1. Honey: its medicinal property and antibacterial activity; PMC, US National Library of Medicine, National Institutes of Health

2. Honey Composition and Properties by By J. W. White, Jr. and Landis W. Doner; Bee Source

3. Favorite Tips on Natural Skin Care With Honey; Benefits of Honey

4. 6 Amazing Benefits Of Honey For Hair Growth; Stylecraze