We all want to look and feel our best, and as time goes by, we might notice a few changes – maybe a fine line here or a little less glow there. Could something as simple as honey, that sweet treat we often drizzle on toast, actually help reduce these signs of ageing?
We asked Dr. Sanjeev Gulati, a skin expert from Sharda Hospital in Noida, for his insights. Here is everything he shared with us and you need to know!
Dr. Gulati explains that honey isn't just sugar. It's packed with natural goodies that can be great for our skin. "Honey contains antioxidants," he says. "These are like tiny warriors that fight against harmful things called free radicals. Free radicals can damage our skin cells and speed up the ageing process."
Think of it like this: imagine rust forming on metal. Free radicals are like that rust for your skin. Antioxidants in honey can help protect against this damage.
How Honey Might Help Your Skin Look Younger
So, how exactly can honey contribute to a more youthful appearance? Dr. Gulati points to a few key ways:
- Moisturising Power: Honey is a natural humectant, which means it attracts and holds onto moisture. Well-hydrated skin looks plumper and smoother, making fine lines and wrinkles less noticeable.
- Gentle Exfoliation: Honey contains mild acids that can gently help to remove dead skin cells. This can reveal brighter, fresher skin underneath, giving you a more radiant look.
- Soothing Inflammation: Redness and inflammation can make skin look older. Honey has natural anti-inflammatory properties that can help calm irritated skin.
- Boosting Healing: While not directly related to ageing signs, honey's ability to promote healing can help with things like acne scars, which can sometimes affect the overall appearance of the skin.
Expert Advice: How to Use Honey
Dr. Gulati suggests a few ways to incorporate honey into your skincare routine:
- Honey Mask: Apply a thin layer of raw, unprocessed honey to clean, dry skin. Leave it on for about 15-20 minutes and then rinse off with lukewarm water.
- Spot Treatment: For blemishes or dry patches, a dab of honey can help soothe and heal.
- DIY Scrubs: Mix honey with a gentle exfoliant like finely ground oats or sugar for a homemade scrub.
Important Note: Dr. Gulati emphasizes that while honey has many benefits, it's not a magic bullet for reversing all signs of ageing. "A healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet, sun protection, and a good skincare routine, is still crucial," he advises. "Honey can be a wonderful addition to this, but it works best as part of a holistic approach."
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Beyond Skin: Other Benefits of Honey
The goodness of honey doesn't stop at the skin. Dr. Gulati also mentions some other well-known benefits:
- Soothes Sore Throats: Honey has been used for centuries to help relieve coughs and sore throats.
- Provides Energy: Its natural sugars can give you a quick energy boost.
- May Aid Digestion: Some studies suggest honey can have a positive impact on gut health.
Bottomline
While honey might not completely turn back the clock, Dr. Sanjeev Gulati's insights suggest that its natural properties can indeed contribute to healthier, more radiant skin, potentially reducing the visible signs of ageing. So, the next time you reach for that jar of honey, remember it's not just a treat for your taste buds – it could be a treat for your skin too! Just remember to use it as part of a well-rounded approach to health and wellness.