Honey for Acne: How to Get Rid of Acne and its Scars Naturally with Honey

What’s more painful having acne on your face or dealing with the scars that stay rent-free for days? In extreme cases, these visible marks can take months to fully disappear. But don’t worry, we’re here with more than just the problem. We’ve got some simple homemade remedies that aren’t just easy to find but can work wonders for acne and its scars.

Here, we’re talking about the amazing benefits of honey for acne and how this everyday kitchen ingredient can help you get clearer, healthier skin. 

How Honey Helps Reduce Acne and Scars?

Wondering, is honey good for acne? Honey has been used and valued for its medicinal benefits for ancient times. It is used to treat conditions like dandruff, psoriasis, burns, and fungal infections. Today, it remains a popular ingredient in many skincare products.

One of the most effective skincare combinations is honey and cinnamon for acne treatment. These ingredients are known to fight the bacteria that contribute to blocked, inflamed pores.

Acne often arises from the Propionibacterium acnes (P. acnes) bacteria, which grow on sebum, a waxy substance that can clog pores and lead to breakouts.

Honey has several properties that help tackle acne such as: 

• It has a high sugar content, which draws moisture from bacterial cells, preventing them from multiplying.
• Its natural acidity creates an environment where bacteria struggle to survive.
• It contains propolis, an antimicrobial compound bees use to protect their hives.

Cinnamon, too, brings powerful benefits. Research shows it can combat harmful bacteria like E. coli, Staphylococcus, and Candida albicans. Cinnamon also has astringent properties that help tighten pores and enhance skin texture, making it appear smoother and more even.

Together, honey and cinnamon form a natural, effective duo to combat acne and enhance skin health.

10 Benefits of Honey for Face Acne

Honey is known for its natural healing abilities, and it’s quite helpful for acne-prone skin. Its antibacterial, soothing, and hydrating properties can support clearer, healthier skin in multiple ways. 

Here are 10 detailed benefits of using honey for acne:

1. Fights acne-causing bacteria

Raw honey contains natural enzymes and antibacterial compounds that can reduce acne-triggering bacteria on the skin. This also lowers the chances of breakouts.

2. Calms irritation and swelling

Its anti-inflammatory properties help soothe the skin, ease redness and puffiness often seen with acne.

3. Keeps skin hydrated

Honey acts as a humectant by drawing moisture into the skin and helping it stay soft without clogging pores.

4. Reduces acne-related redness

Its gentle soothing effect can visibly reduce the redness that often accompanies pimples and inflamed skin.

5. Supports skin healing

Honey encourages tissue regeneration, which may help acne spots fade faster and improve overall skin texture.

6. Cleans pores naturally

Using honey as a face mask helps remove dirt, oil, and impurities from pores. Also reduce the risk of future breakouts.

7. Minimizes the look of enlarged pores

With regular use, honey can help refine skin texture, making pores appear smaller and less noticeable.

8. Lightens dark spots and marks

Honey with its mild bleaching effect and antioxidant content can gradually fade post-acne pigmentation and scars.

9. Offers gentle exfoliation

The natural enzymes in honey provide light exfoliation and contribute to remove dead skin and reveal a smoother surface.

10. Balances oil production

By maintaining moisture and supporting a healthy skin barrier, honey can help regulate excess sebum and keep skin more balanced.

How to Use Honey for Acne: 6 DIY Remedies to Try at Home

Honey with its natural antibacterial properties can be considered one of the most powerful remedies to heal acne, reduce redness, and soothe irritated skin. 

Here are the best ways to use honey for acne at home with simple ingredients.

1. Simple honey spot treatment

Using honey directly on acne helps reduce inflammation and fight bacteria. This way you can achieve quicker healing.

Ingredients

• Raw honey

How to use it:

• Wash your face with a gentle cleanser
• Put a few drops of honey on your fingertip
• Dab it directly on pimples
• Wait for 30 minutes and then rinse with cold or lukewarm water as per your preference

2. Honey + Lemon Oil Control Mask

Lemon helps balance oil production, while honey soothes and hydrates the skin, making it perfect for oily acne-prone skin.

Ingredients:

• Juice from 1 lemon
• 1 tbsp honey

How to use it:

• Mix lemon juice and honey in a bowl.
• Apply to acne areas.
• Leave it for 20–30 minutes.
• Rinse with warm water.

3. Honey + Yogurt Cooling Face Pack

The probiotics in yogurt calm irritation, and honey moisturizes, making this mask perfect for sensitive skin that’s prone to breakouts.

Ingredients:

• ½ cup plain yogurt
• 2 tbsp honey

How to use it:

• Mix yogurt and honey together.
• Apply all over your face (avoid eyes).
• Let it dry and then rinse with cool water.

4. Honey + Aloe Vera Calming Mask

Aloe vera provides a soothing effect, while honey helps reduce redness and prevents further breakouts.

Ingredients:

• 2 tbsp aloe vera gel
• 1 tbsp honey

How to use it:

• Mix both ingredients.
• Apply to acne-prone areas.
• Leave on for 20 minutes.
• Rinse gently.

5. Honey + Banana Soft Skin Mask

Banana helps moisturize and smooth skin, while honey’s antibacterial properties keep acne under control.

Ingredients:

• 1 ripe banana
• 1 tbsp honey

How to use it:

• Mash the banana with honey and make a sticky paste out of it. Apply to your face and leave for 10 minutes before rinsing off.

6. Honey + Cinnamon Warm Mask

This mask blends cinnamon’s antibacterial properties with honey’s soothing effects, helping to fight acne-causing bacteria.

Ingredients:

• 3 tbsp honey
• 1 tbsp cinnamon powder

How to use it:

• Mix and warm in the microwave for 30 seconds and let it cool slightly.
• Apply to your face, wait 10 minutes and then rinse off.

How Effective Honey for Acne Scars?

Honey has several potential advantages for those looking to improve their acne scars. Here’s a closer look at how honey may help with skin recovery.

How honey works for acne scars

• Moisturizes and Heals: Honey is a natural humectant, which means it helps retain moisture in the skin. This keeps the skin hydrated and supports the healing process of acne scars. Hydrated skin is more likely to recover smoothly and prevent excessive dryness or peeling that can make scars more noticeable.
• Antibacterial Properties: Honey contains antibacterial compounds that can help maintain a clean environment on the skin. By reducing the number of bacteria on the skin’s surface, honey may reduce the chances of further breakouts or infections that can worsen acne scars.
• Soothes Irritated Skin: Honey has a mild, calming effect on the skin, which can reduce redness and irritation around the affected areas. When applied, it can help soothe inflamed or sensitive skin which is easier for the skin to heal without aggravating the existing scarring.

Potential Side Effects of Using Honey for Acne

While honey is a natural and gentle ingredient, it’s important to be aware of possible side effects when applying it to your skin. Understanding these risks can help you use honey safely and effectively in your skincare routine.

Allergic reactions:

Some individuals may be allergic to bee products, leading to redness, itching, or swelling. Always patch tests before full application.

Skin irritation:

Honey can cause stinging or burning sensations, especially for those with sensitive skin. If irritation occurs, rinse immediately and use a soothing moisturizer.

Pore clogging:

Honey’s sticky texture can leave residue on the skin, potentially clogging pores and leading to breakouts. Make sure to wash your face thoroughly after use.

Infection risk:

Raw honey may contain natural bacteria, which could introduce infections if applied to broken or inflamed skin. Use with caution on irritated areas.

Staining:

Honey can stain clothing or bedding, so be careful when using it, particularly overnight. Rinse any excess honey off immediately to avoid stains.

By being aware of these potential side effects, you can decide how best to incorporate honey into your skincare routine while minimizing any risks. Always listen to your skin and adjust your use of honey accordingly.

Conclusion 

Incorporating honey for acne into your skincare routine can be a simple yet effective way to address both acne and its scars. With its antibacterial, soothing, and moisturizing properties, honey helps promote clearer skin and supports healing. 

However, it’s important to use honey carefully and be mindful of potential side effects, such as allergies or skin irritation. By patch testing and following proper application methods, honey for acne can become a natural, healing addition to your daily routine for acne management and scar reduction.

FAQs 

How to get rid of acne scars naturally with honey? 

Apply raw honey directly to acne scars and leave it on for 15-20 minutes before rinsing off. Honey’s healing properties can help fade scars over time.

Can honey cause acne? 

Honey is generally non-comedogenic and used for acne as a remedy but some people with sensitive skin or allergies may experience reactions. Always do a patch test before using it on your face.

How to use honey on face for acne scars? 

Apply raw honey to acne scars and leave it on for 15-20 minutes. Rinse off with warm water, and repeat daily for best results.

Does honey cause acne itching? 

Honey is unlikely to cause itching, but it may irritate sensitive skin or trigger allergic reactions in some people. Always do a patch test before applying it to your face.

Does honey get rid of acne overnight? 

Honey can help reduce acne over time due to its antibacterial properties, but it won’t eliminate acne overnight. Consistent use can show improvement after a few days.

Is honey good for pimples?

Yes, honey has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce pimples. It also soothes the skin and promotes healing.

How long to put honey on acne?

Leave honey on acne for 15 to 20 minutes before rinsing with warm water. For spot treatment, you can leave it overnight.

Is honey good for oily skin?

Yes, honey helps balance oil production and keeps the skin hydrated without making it greasy. Its antibacterial properties also prevent breakouts on oily skin.

How long does it take for honey to fade acne scars?

Fading acne scars with honey can take a few weeks to a few months with regular use. Results vary based on skin type and how deep the scars are.

Does honey cause skin irritation if left on the face for too long?

Honey is generally safe, but leaving it on too long might cause irritation for sensitive skin. Always patch tests before using it for extended periods.