Ingredient 101

THE BEES’ KNEES

How honey can help hydrate and plump your complexion this winter By Lora Grady

HONEY IS NO STRANGER TO THE

SKINCARE WORLD—in fact, it was used as a natural healing remedy in some of the world’s earliest civilizations. The ancient Sumerians used it in healing ointments around 2000 B.C., Cleopatra added it to her milk baths, and it was used to clear up blemishes in Ming dynasty-era China. Today, honey is back in the spotlight as beauty brands continue to prioritize natural ingredients. Not only does it feel amazing on skin— honey could also help you achieve a softer, more hydrated complexion this winter.

“Studies show that honey ofers many skincare benefits, including antimicrobial and antioxidant properties. It’s also a potent emollient and humectant,” says Dr. Geeta Yadav, a Toronto-based dermatologist and founder of Facet Dermatology. In the short term, she says, adding honey into your skincare routine will help plump up parched skin by drawing in hydration and sealing in moisture. “Over time, you may see a subtle improvement in the appearance of signs of aging, as honey’s antioxidant benefits protect skin from free radical damage,” says Dr. Yadav. She adds that sustainability is a huge priority for brands right now, and as long as beekeepers properly care for their hives, harvesting ingredients like honey, propolis and royal jelly is a sustainable practice.

Guerlain has prioritized honey as a key ingredient over the last decade with its Abeille Royale line of skincare. “As nature’s great alchemists, bees produce some of the most efective skin-healing substances,” says Maxime Poulin, North America education and event director for Guerlain. The honey used in the Abeille Royale range is sourced from sustainable farms in France that are protected UNESCO biospheres. “We harvest in the traditional method with complete respect to nature,” Poulin adds. The brand plans to continue researching and using honey in its hero products.

“Since it’s best known for its moisturizing properties, I recommend using honey in a mask or intensive nourishing treatment,” says Dr. Yadav. Honey can also help treat psoriasis, dermatitis and other conditions characterized by dryness. It’s not a cure-all though, Dr. Yadav points out, so consult with your dermatologist before using anything new.

HONEY WAGON

Get a more radiant complexion with this oil, which is made from 95% naturally-derived ingredients—including black bee honey from France and three other types of honey.

GUERLAIN Abeille Royale Advanced Youth Watery Oil, $132 for 30ml, at Shoppers Drug Mart, Holt Renfrew, Hudson’s Bay, Sephora and Guerlain.com.

Made with Manuka honey, this non-sticky gel formula moisturizes and reduces puffness around the eyes. (Bonus: It has a soothing rollerball applicator.)

L’OREAL PARIS Age Perfect Hydra-Nutrition Honey Eye Gel, $23, at Shoppers Drug Mart.

Activated charcoal, gold foil and Manuka honey make this nourishing mask a great option for hydrating, balancing and calming skin for a healthy glow.

KEYS SOULCARE Harmony Mask, $48, at Sephora.