Overview

Honey has been used for centuries for its healing properties. The ancient Egyptians used it as an embalming agent, the Greeks used it for skin disorders, the Romans used it as a wound cleaner and, even today, people all over the world are using it to treat, disinfect and heal burns, cuts, open wounds and skin ailments. So to use honey on acne, which is a skin infection, is a natural solution.

What is Acne?

Acne is caused when follicles in the skin become blocked, according to Acne.org. When pores in the skin are not able to breathe and sebum--the skin's natural oil--can't get out, it forms a bump. Bacteria will start to grow and an infection is born. These infections can get severe, causing inflammation, redness and irritation.

Benefits of Honey

Honey has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. Honey has the ability to destroy the bacteria that acne causes and, at the same time, sooth, calm and nourish the skin to promote healing and new growth of uninfected skin, according to acnetalks.com. It can also help reduce scarring.

Types of Honey

To get the full benefits of using honey on acne, it is important to use the right kind. The website, World of Honey, advises to stay clear of store-bought honey that has been processed because it loses its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial qualities. The best honey to use is unprocessed, organic, raw honey. This honey should come right from the hives, if at all possible, and should not have been chemically altered in any way.

Application

The best way to use honey on acne is in a mask form. This can be done by mixing equal parts of honey and lemon juice. Apply all over the face, not just to the blemish, and let it set for 20 minutes before washing it off. If there is a specific pimple that might need extra attention, honey, in its purest form, can also be applied directly to the blemish. Let it sit for 15 minutes or cover it with a bandage and keep it on overnight.

Warning

Many people have allergies to honey. If you are allergic, do not use honey on your skin because it could make the condition worse. It is also important to note that this treatment does not work on all skin types.