As skin ages it looses the ability to retain water and stay hydrated, and as it looses suppleness and elasticity, so the wrinkles encroach. Honey is a humectant, which means it attracts and retains water, and this makes it the perfect ingredient for a variety of moisturizing products including cleansers, creams, shampoos and conditioners. Because honey is also an anti-irritant, it is suitable for sensitive skin and baby care products.

Bee pollen helps to improve skin tone and smooth away shallow wrinkles. Research in Sweden suggests that it works by delivering more blood to skin cells, stimulating the growth of new skin tissues.

Cleansing Scrub
To make
1 Tablespoon of honey
3 Tablespoons oatmeal
1/2 teaspoon lemon juice or rosewater

To use
Rub gently onto face
Rinse off with warm water.

Firming Face Mask
To make
1 Tablespoon honey
1 egg white
1 teaspoon glycerine
Flour or oatmeal to form a paste (approximately 1/4 cup)

To use
Whisk together and smooth over face and throat
Leave on 10 minutes
Rinse off with warm water

Smoothing Skin Lotion
To make
1 teaspoon honey
1 teaspoon vegetable oil
1/4 teaspoon lemon juice

To use
Mix together and rub into hands, elbows, heels and anywhere that feels dry
Leave on 10 minutes
Rinse off with water

Skin Softening Bath
To make and use
Add 1/4 cup honey to bath water for a fragrant, silky bath.

Hair Shine
To make
Stir 1 teaspoon honey into 4 cups (1 quart) warm water.
Blondes may wish to add a squeeze of lemon

To use
After shampooing, pour mixture through hair
Do not rinse out
Dry as normal