How to Use Raw Honey as a Face Mask: Tips and Recipes
Honey, especially raw honey, offers several skincare benefits due to its natural antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. It can be used to hydrate, exfoliate, and nourish your skin. This guide explores various ways to use raw honey as a face mask, tailored to different skin types and concerns.
Hydrating Masks for Dry Skin
For dry skin, raw honey is an excellent choice as it deeply moisturizes and soothes the skin.
Method 1: Almond Oil Honey Mask
Combine 1 tablespoon of raw honey with 1 tablespoon of sweet almond oil in a small dish. Apply the mixture to your face, avoiding the eye area, and leave it on for 30 to 40 minutes. Rinse with warm water using a washcloth.
Almond oil helps to lock in moisture and does not clog pores, making it suitable for dry skin types. You can replace almond oil with another light oil if needed.
Method 2: Yogurt Honey Mask
Add 2 tablespoons of plain whole-fat yogurt to the mix. Apply the mask, leave it on for 15 to 20 minutes, then rinse. For extra hydration, use 1/2 of a ripe mashed avocado instead of yogurt.
Exfoliating and Brightening Masks
For an effective exfoliant or to brighten dull skin, incorporate raw honey into different recipes.
Method 3: Honey, Avocado, and Ground Almonds Mask
Mix 2 tablespoons of raw honey, 2 tablespoons of finely-ground almonds, and 1/4 of a mashed avocado. Apply this mask for 15 to 20 minutes, and gently massage with circular motions when rinsing.
Method 4: Honey and Lemon Mask
Combine 1 tablespoon of raw honey with 2 to 3 drops of pure lemon essential oil. Apply the mask on your face for 15 to 20 minutes. Remove with a damp warm washcloth.
Note: This mask is not suitable for sensitive skin and can cause sun sensitivity. Avoid direct sunlight for 24 hours after application or use a 30 SPF sunscreen.
Masks for Acne-Prone and Oily Skin
For skin prone to acne or excess oil, use honey combined with other ingredients to fight bacteria and reduce shine.
Method 5: Honey and Cinnamon Mask
Mix 3 teaspoons of raw honey with 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon. Apply the mask for 10 to 30 minutes, avoid the eye area, and rinse with warm water.
Note: Cinnamon can be harsh on sensitive skin. Test on the back of your hand first and use ground nutmeg if necessary.
Method 6: Honey, Lemon, and Baking Soda Mask
Combine 1 tablespoon of raw honey, 1 teaspoon of lemon juice, and 1 teaspoon of baking soda. Apply the mask, wait 15 minutes, then rinse with warm water followed by cool water to close pores.
Note: Do not use baking powder, and this mask may not be suitable for sensitive skin. Lemon juice can increase sun sensitivity, so avoid direct sunlight or use 30 SPF sunscreen.
Method 7: Honey and Turmeric Powder Mask
Mix 2 tablespoons of raw honey with 1/2 tablespoon of turmeric powder. Apply the mask over your face for 20 minutes, then rinse with warm water. Ideal for 2 to 3 times a week, turmeric can help treat acne and lighten skin discoloration.
Masks for Sensitive Skin
For those with sensitive skin, gentler alternatives are key to avoid irritation.
Method 8: Simple Honey Mask
Apply 1 to 2 tablespoons of raw honey as a face mask, avoiding the eye area. Leave it on for 15 to 20 minutes and rinse with a washcloth. Perfect for all skin types, it can be used daily.
Method 9: Honey and Aloe Vera Mask
Mix 2 teaspoons of raw honey and 1 teaspoon of aloe vera gel. Apply the mixture for 10 to 20 minutes before rinsing off. Suitable for daily use and can treat rashes or eczema.
Method 10: Honey, Green Tea, and Almond Oil Mask
Blend 1 tablespoon of raw honey with 1 teaspoon of matcha powder and 1 teaspoon of sweet almond oil (use jojoba oil if unavailable). Apply the mask for 15 minutes, then rinse with warm water. Good for sensitive skin!
Method 11: Honey and Cooked Oatmeal Mask
Cook 2 tablespoons of oatmeal, stir in 1 tablespoon of raw honey, let it cool, and then apply the mask. Wait for 15 to 20 minutes before rinsing with a washcloth. For exfoliation, use 1 tablespoon of finely-ground uncooked oatmeal.