Raw Honey for Skincare: Natural Healing Benefits, Routines & DIY Masks
Looking for a natural glow-up? Raw honey from WA’s Jarrah forests is a skincare superhero. It soothes redness, fights acne-causing bacteria and locks in moisture.
So, you wondering ‘Is raw honey good for skin?’ Absolutely! It’s a gentle, natural healer packed with antibacterial, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant goodness. Sourced from WA and lab-tested at TA30+ potency, our 100% pure raw honey at Swan Valley Honey combines purity and power.
In this guide we’ll cover the science-backed benefits of honey for skin, daily AM/PM routines, DIY honey mask recipes, and safety tips.
Keep reading to discover why raw honey might just be your skin’s new best friend.
Why Raw Honey is Good for Skin?
“Raw” honey means it’s straight from the hive; unheated, unfiltered and rich in enzymes, pollen and bee propolis. Unlike pasteurised honey (which can lose many active nutrients), raw honey retains its natural antibacterial, moisturising and healing compounds.
Practically, raw honey is:
- Antibacterial: Enzymes in raw honey produce hydrogen peroxide and other compounds that kill germs.
- Moisturising (humectant): Draws and locks moisture into skin for lasting softness.
- Anti-inflammatory: Antioxidants and flavonoids reduce redness and soothe irritation.
- Wound-healing: Traditionally used in dressings; speeds repair of cuts, burns and acne spots.
- Antioxidant-rich: Contains phenols and flavonoids that help protect skin from ageing.
Benefits of Raw Honey for Skin and Face
Raw honey is more than a pantry essential. It’s a multitasking skincare assistant. Below we’ve explained the main raw honey skincare benefits so you can see what honey does for your skin, what the science says, and what to expect when you use it on your face.
- Antibacterial Action & Wound Healing
Raw honey has natural antimicrobial activity that helps reduce surface bacteria and keeps minor wounds clean. That’s why medical-grade honey is used in some wound dressings.
What the science says: Honey produces small amounts of hydrogen peroxide and contains other antimicrobial phytochemicals. Many lab studies and some clinical reports back its infection-fighting effects. Manuka and Jarrah are frequently studied for high antibacterial activity (TA or MGO measures).
What to expect: Reduced redness and faster drying of small blemishes in a few days; improved healing of minor cuts or grazes over several days.
- Anti-Inflammatory & Calming Effects
Honey soothes irritation and reduces redness because of its anti-inflammatory compounds.
What the science says: Multiple studies (including lab and animal work) show honey varieties; including some stingless-bee and floral honeys, have measurable anti-inflammatory activity. This explains why people report less swelling and calmer skin after using raw honey.
What to expect: Softer, less-reactive skin after a few applications; noticeable reduction in redness within 1–2 weeks with regular use.
- Hydration & Moisturising (Humectant Action)
Honey is a natural humectant. It attracts and holds moisture in the skin, helping dry or flaky areas recover.
What the science says: Honey’s sugar composition and enzymes bind water and lock it into the stratum corneum (outer skin layer). Raw honey keeps more of these natural constituents than pasteurized honey.
What to expect: Noticeably plumper, softer skin after a few treatments; reduced flakiness and less tightness.
- Glow, Antioxidant Protection & Anti-Ageing Support
Honey gently exfoliates and delivers antioxidants that protect skin from oxidative stress; both useful for a brighter, fresher complexion.
What the science says: Honey contains phenols and flavonoids (plant antioxidants). Some small human studies and older reviews suggest honey can improve skin appearance and help slow some signs of ageing, though most robust data are limited. Recent product studies (e.g., honey serums) report early improvements in texture and spots, sometimes from week 2. But expect gradual change.
What to expect: A subtle honey glow and smoother texture over weeks of consistent use.
- Dark Spots & Mild Pigmentation Improvement
Honey can support mild lightening when combined safely with gentle acids (like lemon or yogurt) by promoting skin turnover and calming inflammation.
What the science says: Evidence is mostly preliminary; honey alone is gentle and won’t erase deep hyperpigmentation. Combining honey with mild exfoliants can help surface marks gradually.
What to expect: Gradual evening of minor dark spots over weeks to months; realistic, modest improvement rather than instant removal.
- Other Emerging Areas (Treatment for Skin Cancer)
Some laboratory and animal studies report that certain honeys can slow cancer cell growth and show antiproliferative, anticancer and antimetastatic activity in vitro. These early results are scientifically interesting and worth further research.
What the science says: the evidence so far is preliminary (mostly lab and animal work). Honey is not a proven treatment for skin cancer and must never replace professional medical care. If you have, or suspect you have, skin cancer, talk to your doctor about safe treatment options and whether any complementary use of honey is appropriate alongside standard therapy.
Important Evidence Note (read this): Many promising studies on honey are in vitro or in animals, and some human studies are small or product-specific. That means results can vary between honey types and individuals.
How to Use Honey in Your Skincare Routine
Adding raw honey is easy and rewarding. Expect sticky fingers, but happier skin! Always start gently.
Patch Test: First apply a dab to your inner arm for over 20 minutes and wait 24–48 hours to check for reactions. Then:
- Morning
Cleanse with a gentle face wash. Pat dry. Apply a thin layer of raw honey to your face (or just on trouble spots) for 5–10 minutes. Rinse off with warm water. Then continue with your usual moisturiser and sunscreen.
Tip: Skip lemon or citrus masks in the AM to avoid sun sensitivity.
- Evening
Double-cleanse if you wore makeup. On dry skin, spread raw honey over your face. You can either rinse it off in 5–15 minutes (as a mask) or mix 1 tsp honey with a few drops of face oil and leave it on overnight (cover pillow). In the morning, wash it off and follow with your regular night cream or oil.
Frequency: Use honey masks 1–3 times per week. Dry/sensitive skin can do mask+cream nightly if tolerated. Oily/acne-prone skin can focus on spot treatments and occasional masks.
DIY Raw Honey Face Mask Recipes
Try these easy at-home honey face mask recipes (with Jarrah honey for best results). Each recipe lists ingredients, steps, frequency and skin type.
Recipe #1: Soothing Hydration Mask (For Dry/Sensitive Skin)
| Ingredients | Steps | Use/Frequency | Why it Works |
| 1 tsp raw Jarrah honey 1 tsp plain yogurt | Mix into a paste. Apply on clean skin and leave 10–15 minutes. Rinse with warm water. | 1–2× weekly | Yogurt’s lactic acid gently exfoliates, while honey soothes and hydrates. Expect plumper, softer skin. |
Recipe #2: Calming Aloe Mask (For Sensitive/Red Skin)
| Ingredients | Steps | Use/Frequency | Why it Works |
| 1 tsp rawJarrah honey 1 tsp pure aloe vera gel | Blend and apply to face. Leave 10–15 minutes. Rinse off gently. | 1–2× weekly | Aloe calms irritation and cools inflamed skin while honey locks in moisture. Ideal after sun exposure. |
Recipe #3: Antibacterial Spot Treatment (For Acne-Prone Skin)
| Ingredients | Steps | Use/Frequency | Why it Works |
| 1 tsp raw Jarrah honey ¼ tsp tea tree oil (or 2–3 drops) | Mix well.Dab onto pimples.Leave 5–10 mins (or overnight). Rinse thoroughly. | As needed (up to daily spot use) | Tea tree boosts honey’s antibacterial power, helping reduce redness and swelling overnight. |
Recipe #4: Brightening Lemon Mask (For Dull/Hyperpigmented Skin)
| Ingredients | Steps | Use/Frequency | Safety & Benefits |
| 1 tsp raw Jarrah honey ½ tsp lemon juice | Mix and apply a thin layer (avoid eyes). Leave 3–5 minutes only, then rinse. | Once a week, at night (patch-test first) | Lemon can sting and increases sun sensitivity. Never use in daytime. Honey calms, lemon gently brightens dark spots over time. |
Recipe #5: Overnight Moisture Mask (For Very Dry Skin)
| Ingredients | Steps | Use/Frequency | Why it Works |
| 1 tsp raw Jarrah honey ½ tsp facial oil (squalane, jojoba, etc.) | Mix honey + oil. Apply thin layer before bed. Sleep on a towel, rinse in the morning. | 1–2× weekly (or nightly if very dry skin) | Deeply nourishes and repairs overnight. Wake up to soft, supple, hydrated skin. |
Side Effects & Safety: What You Need to Know
- Possible Irritation: Using honey alone is usually mild, but adding lemon or essential oils can sting or tingle. If a mask (e.g. honey+lemon) feels too hot, wash it off immediately. Some people feel slight redness after first use; it typically fades quickly.
- Allergy Warning: Raw honey contains bee pollen and propolis. If you have allergies to bee products, pollen or hive stings, use extreme caution. Stop use at the first sign of itching, hives or swelling. Seek medical help if a rash or breathing trouble occurs.
- Photosensitivity: Citrus masks (honey + lemon) make skin very sensitive to UV. Use them only at night and always apply sunscreen the next day.
Other Precautions:
- Avoid getting honey in your eyes.
- Remove honey masks before sleeping on exposed skin (dust and debris can stick).
- Always do a patch test on your forearm or behind your ear and wait 1–2 days before full facial use.
- If you experience severe redness, burning, or rash that doesn’t go away, discontinue use and consult a doctor.
Final Verdict: Should You Add Raw Honey to Your Skincare Routine?
For most skin types, yes. Raw honey is a gentle, effective addition. Dry and sensitive skin will love the hydration and calming effects. Acne-prone skin can benefit from honey’s antibacterial spot treatments. If you have bee or pollen allergies, or if your skin reacts badly, skip honey or use only under advice.
Overall, many find sweeter results from fewer chemicals and more honey. Start slow (once a week), observe your skin, and adjust frequency. Remember: consistency + SPF is key.
Looking for a natural solution to stubborn skin issues?
Try Raw Honey for Skin | Get a Healthy, Natural Glow Today
Swan Valley Honey’s pure Raw Jarrah Honey TA30+ is sourced from pristine WA forests and lab-tested for potency. Add this premium honey into your routine (as a mask, spot treatment or hydrating serum) and see the difference.
Let’s start your journey to calmer, glowing skin.
Shop Pure Raw Honey for Skin Now
FAQs
Q1. Is raw honey good for acne?
Yes. Its natural antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties can help clear pimples. Dab a bit of raw honey on breakouts for 5–15 minutes, then rinse. Always patch-test first and use sparingly on active acne.
Q2. How long should you leave honey on your face?
It depends on the treatment. Quick spot treatments or masks need only 5–15 minutes. For a deep hydrating pack, you can leave a thin layer on overnight (especially mixed with oil). Never exceed 20 minutes with citrus masks, and always rinse thoroughly when done.
Q3. Can honey remove dark spots?
Honey alone is gentle and may slightly lighten discolouration over time through mild exfoliation. It won’t erase deep spots quickly. For best results, combine weekly honey masks with SPF and occasional lemon or yogurt (AHAs) masks. Be patient. Any fading of dark marks will be gradual.
Q4. Is Jarrah better than Manuka for skin?
Both are potent. Manuka’s strength comes from methylglyoxal (MGO), while Jarrah’s comes from natural hydrogen peroxide (TA rating). Australian Jarrah TA30+ has been shown to match or exceed high-grade Manuka in antimicrobial power. Using local Jarrah also ensures maximum freshness and quality.
Q5. Can diabetics use honey on skin?
Topical honey is generally safe for diabetics. It won’t raise blood sugar. However, if you have wounds (especially diabetic ulcers), talk to a doctor before applying honey medically.
Q6. How often should I use a raw honey face mask?
For most skin types, 1–3 times per week is ideal. Start with once weekly, then increase to every other day if your skin tolerates it. Oily or sensitive skin may prefer less frequent use. Overdoing masks can cause irritation, so listen to your skin’s response.
Q7. Can I mix honey with lemon for my face?
Yes, but carefully. Honey+lemon is a classic brightening mask, but lemon juice is very acidic. Always patch-test, use only a few drops of lemon, and leave the mask on just 3–5 minutes. Do this at night, and always wear sunscreen next day.