When was the last time you slowed down and took a few minutes to just breathe? If you are like me, taking an hour to pause from life and pamper yourself does not happen all that frequently. Relax? Rest? Spa day? What is that?! The reality is that we need rest. We need relaxation. We were not made to always go, go, go. And when we try going without stopping we often end up in a full-blown immune system crash. So take a seat, grab a cup of tea and get ready to read about one way that you can relax and rest, while also nourishing and healing your face at the same time.

This recipe is super simple. Like three ingredients only simple. And yet it is packed full of amazing things. Honey is the foundation of this recipe. Studies show that honey is a powerful aid for healing acute and chronic wounds. (1) It is full of nutrients, antioxidants, and so very soothing to dry skin. Honey makes for great acne spot treatment as well, due to its antibacterial nature. (2) When used on the face, it can help unclog pores, smooth complexion, and slow down signs of aging. In my experience, it’s honey that gives the face that radiant glow.

Have you noticed that there are multiple types of honey? There is pasteurized or heated honey, raw and unfiltered honey, and Manuka honey. So which one is best? Well, for starters, I do not recommended heated or pasteurized honey. When honey is processed, it looses all the nutrients that make your face shine. Raw and unfiltered honey is wonderful, and very easy to obtain. It will give your face just the spa treatment you are seeking, and is less expensive, making it an affordable option for everyday or regular use.

Manuka honey, on the other hand, is a bit more expensive but well worth the investment if you are looking for some serious skin rejuvenation. Manuka honey is produced in New Zealand by bees that pollinate the native manuka bush. It is used to treat conditions as critical as cancer and diabetes. (3) Studies also show that manuka honey is strong enough to kill bacteria such as: Helicobacter pylori; Staphylococcus aureus; Escherichia coli (i.e. E. Coli); and Streptococcus pyogenes (i.e. strep throat). (4) (5) Of course not all manuka honey is created equal. The strength, or bioactivity of the honey is rated at a level between 5-25, and the higher you can get the better. Anything above a level of 16 is optimum. Here at Radiant Life, we are pleased to offer just that! If you’ve struggled with acne or other inflammatory skin conditions, using manuka honey in this recipe may be of great benefit for you.

To complete this honey facemask recipe, the honey is combined with coconut oil and several drops of essential oil. Coconut oil is amazing for skin, and it enhances the facemask by providing a soothing creamy texture. Studies show coconut oil is great for calming inflammation, as well as healing wounds and moisturizing skin. (6) Again, raw, unrefined coconut oil is the best.

You can use just about any essential oils that you would like, but some of my favorites for the honey facemask are tea tree, lavender, and lemon.

Ingredients:

2 Tbs. Honey (preferably Manuka)

2 Tbs. Coconut oil

3-4 drops essential oil of your choice (optional)

Directions:

• Measure out honey and coconut oil in a small glass container, and mix well with a spoon or fork
• Add in drops of essential oil to your liking
• Stir well
• Apply a thin layer all over face
• Leave mask on for approximately 30 minutes
• Rinse with warm water and pat face dry

Store the reminder of your mask ingredients in an airtight glass container such as one of these!