How to Use Honey in Your Skincare Routine

Raw honey works as a gentle cleanser and hydrating mask when applied to damp skin for 10-20 minutes before rinsing with warm water.

1. Choose the right honey. Use raw, unprocessed honey for skincare — it retains enzymes and antimicrobial properties that processed honey lacks. Manuka honey offers the strongest benefits but any raw variety works for basic hydration and gentle cleansing.
2. Test patch first. Apply a small amount to your inner wrist and wait 24 hours to check for reactions. Honey is generally gentle but individual sensitivities exist, especially with raw varieties that may contain pollen traces.
3. Use as a gentle cleanser. Apply honey to damp skin using circular motions, then rinse with warm water. The natural enzymes dissolve impurities while honey's humectant properties prevent over-drying that traditional cleansers can cause.
4. Apply as a hydrating mask. Spread a thin layer over clean, slightly damp skin and leave for 15-20 minutes. The honey will feel sticky initially but absorbs moisture from the air to plump skin while its natural acids gently exfoliate dead cells.
5. Rinse thoroughly. Use lukewarm water and gentle circular motions to remove all honey residue. Follow with your regular moisturizer while skin is still damp to lock in the hydration boost honey provides.