The benefits of honey as a skin treatment have been recognized for thousands of years. Long used as a wound dressing by traditional healers, honey also enriched the deluxe face creams and soaps prized by aristocratic beauties in Ancient Egypt, Imperial China and Rome, and 18th-century France. Nature’s Prescription for Depleted Skin Today, the effectiveness of honey as a cleansing, moisturizing, and anti-aging agent is supported by scientific studies. According to researchers, honey promotes healing and cell renewal by simultaneously playing five vital roles: 1. Humectant By binding water to cells, honey helps keep skin soft and resilient. 2. Antioxidant Honey contains a mix of antioxidant B vitamins that help repair and prevent free radical damage. 3. Antibiotic In addition to releasing the antiseptic hydrogen peroxide, honey contains other antibacterial and anti-fungal agents that help heal acne, bedsores, burns, and diabetes-related infections. 4. Exfoliant By gently sloughing off dead surface cells, honey brightens dull skin and encourages healthy collagen and elastin production. 5. Anti-inflammatory Honey’s natural anti-inflammatory properties reduce swelling, redness, and irritation. For a Radiant, Dewy Complexion, Add a Taste of Honey This remarkable combination of qualities makes honey the perfect antidote to the many diverse ills that  environmental and age-related stresses can inflict on our complexions. To refresh a winter-weary complexion with a thorough "spring cleaning," try adding a honey-enhanced facial exfoliation mask to your weekly skin-care regimen. Whether you've got dry, sensitive, acne-prone, or combination skin, this soothing, nourishing food will restore balanced functioning and a natural glow. Image: Tom Curtis / FreeDigitalPhotos.net Image: Christian Meyn / FreeDigitalPhotos.net