As I was researching the homemade dry shampoo mix last month I stumbled upon a long list of frugal, easy-to-make homemade beauty recipes. I bookmarked several of the simplest ones with the idea that I'd revisit them and try them one by one. Last week I told you how I've learned to ditch shampoo and have healthier hair. For the past two weeks I've been testing out a honey based face wash, and I've totally fallen in love! Why Honey? As I've read up on why so many people use either plain honey or honey mixed with a couple of other ingredients, I've learned a lot about the health properties of honey. It seems that this often overlooked pantry staple has a whole lot going on under the hood. Honey has been a beauty trick of some of the most beautiful women in history, including Cleopatra. Here's what honey does for the skin:  

• Honey is rich in glycolic acids. These are the natural acids used in expensive face creams and treatments to remove past sun damage and scarring. 
• Honey is naturally antibacterial, making it an excellent treatment for those who are acne-prone. 
• Honey is a natural humectant, meaning it attracts and retains moisture on the face. 
• Honey is gentle, so it is good even for those with sensitive skin. (Like me!)
• Honey tightens pores in the skin.
• Honey brightens up skin, giving it a youthful appearance.

 How is it Used?There are three main methods to using honey as a face wash, and I've tested all of them.   

1. The simplest method is the one I use most often--simply slather a tablespoon or two of raw, organic honey onto your face. Let it sit for 60 seconds or so, then wipe off gently with a warm wet cloth. It isn't nearly as sticky as it sounds. Surprisingly enough with hands that are only slightly damp, the honey slathers easily and feels like a thick cream, not like the sticky, gooey mess that I'd expected it to be. 
2. For a gentle exfoliation, use this mixture: mix 1 tsp baking soda with 2 tablespoons of honey. Spread on your face and rub gently, then wipe off gently with a warm, wet cloth. I've found that if you let the baking soda and honey mixture sit for a few minutes in a bowl before you use it that it will foam up ever so slightly and feels really nice on your face. I use this method once a week to exfoliate. As winter approaches, make sure to get your lips too--get that dead skin off!
3. For heavier acne or more damaged skin, try this mask: wash your face as usual to make sure it is clean. Then take a warm wet cloth and lay it over your face for a few seconds to open up your pores. Then spread a few tablespoons of honey onto your face in a thin layer. Let sit for 10-15 minutes. Rinse with a warm wet cloth. Your skin will feel smooth, look brighter and your pores should appear smaller. The honey will also work on any acne or scars, working to cause them to fade quicker.