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Not just great for slathering on toast or drizzling over yogurt, honey has boundless benefits for your skin.
Honey’s superpower is its antimicrobial properties. Have you ever noticed how honey never grows mould or goes off, even if it’s forgotten for years at the back of a cupboard? This is a side-effect of its slightly acidic, antimicrobial properties. The enzymes in honey release the natural acne-bacteria-blasters: flavonoids, hydrogen peroxide and phenolic acid, which makes it great for acne-prone skin.
However, it is not just acne-prone skin that can feel the benefits; honey is suitable for all skin types. Alongside its antimicrobial properties, it offers up a hefty serving of antioxidants that accelerate healing of the skin. Honey supports skin’s natural immunity, reinforces the skin barrier, and helps protect skin from damage and environmental factors.
There are several different types and causes of acne. Cystic acne occurs when pores in your skin are clogged with sebum, dirt, and dead skin cells. This creates a perfect opportunity for the growth of bacteria, which can cause an infection. The infection can grow deeper into the skin, leading to inflammation and redness, causing raised acne bumps (AKA cysts) with pus that can be tender to the touch.
Benzoyl peroxide is a topical agent for fighting bacteria and can be good for some type of cystic acne. Jojoba oil and rosehip oil are also good for reducing inflammation, fighting bacteria, and keeping in moisture for healthier skin. Ingredients that help exfoliate dead skin cells and increase new skin cell production, such as Vitamin A/Retinol, glycolic acid, and salicylic acid, are good for treating cystic acne as well.
The secret to winning the battle against cystic acne is having the right regimen for your skin. Products that are too strong can be irritating and drying, causing your skin to overproduce oil, which leads to more acne. Picking the wrong active ingredients may have no effect. Using the right regimen for your acne type and skin tolerance can effectively clear acne while keeping your skin healthy and balanced.
honey may be effective for cystic acne, but there are many other factors that may affect whether this ingredient would work on your skin or if there are better ingredients that may work for you. Take this skin quiz to find the best ingredients for your skin and build your skincare routine.
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