Nature's zit zapper
On my –what feels like a– lifelong quest to finding an overnight cure for blemishes, I have tried literally everything. From toothpaste *lol* to over-the-counter, and prescribed, spot treatments. But, after years of trial and error, I can confidently say that nothing works as well as Manuka honey and cinnamon does.
These baby girls contain powerful properties that are known to successfully diminish the size and appearance of blemishes. Distinctive from plain ole honey, Manuka honey has much stronger antibacterial properties; leaving less bacteria to contaminate pores [which causes acne]. This is because it contains Methylglyoxal, or MG, which is a unique enzyme only produced by bees who pollinate the flower Leptospermum scoparium, grown on the Manuka tree, which is remotely found throughout rugged New Zealand terrain. *Yes, it is as legit as it sounds* Manuka honey also has a low pH, which will not only speed up the healing process of acne, but in return will balance your skins pH level and help shed away excess dead cell debris. This keeps your overall complexion A1. Manuka honey is also famous for its moisturizing properties, as its high sugar concentration is responsible for keeping a wound secure and moist, accelerating the healing process even more so. Basically, while the honey cleans all the gunk out, it’s also healing and protecting that pimp hunni from more harm. With all that being said, regular honey is still effective. Dendy Engelman, M.D., a New York City-based dermatologic surgeon, says that, "Honey has natural anti-septic, anti-bacterial, and anti-inflammatory properties,” according to Women’s Health Magazine.
So, when does the cinnamon come in?
Well, she actually shares a lot of the same properties as honey; making the combination one fabulous fuckin’ duo.
Benefits of cinnamon include:
Packed with powerful antioxidants, like polyphenols
Contains anti-inflammatory properties, which helps your body fight infections and repairs tissue damage
Helps fight against bacteria and infections, due to cinnamaldehyde, one of the main active components of cinnamon
Reduces redness and irritation, by restoring moisture
When and how should I use the paste?
I simply take a pea-sized amount of the honey, dab it on the pimple, then with a spoon scoop out a tiny bit of cinnamon and sprinkle it over the honey; it will stick right away. (We use a spoon so that we don’t contaminate what’s in the bottle by dipping a finger in… ew. But, I’m sure any tool would suffice). And, the best time to use the mix is before bed, allowing your skin to really absorb those benefits during its primal hours! According to New York-based dermatologist Dennis Gross, MD, between 11 and midnight is, “when cell mitosis—cell division that renews and repairs skin—is at its peak, whether you’re asleep or not…this is when cells need nutrients the most, and when their anti-aging benefits have maximum impact.” However, if I wake up with a ~fresh zit~ and have the time to be at home for a bit, even leaving the paste on for a few hours WILL have a dramatic effect, decreasing the size and redness [speaking from personal experience]. One tip I have is to not jump in the shower with the paste on–I’d take off the paste with a wipe, or while you wash your face in the sink– when I did this I experienced redness and burning, not sure if it was the harsh shower pressure, high temp, or steam; but I advise against it.
Before you go off and ~heal~ that one sucker you’ve had your mind on, everyone’s skin is different. No matter how natural a product may be, or how prominent the credentials of the person doing the recommending is; always trust yourself first! Cinnamon is still an allergen, ya’ll! You never know if you’re allergic!
The safest way to ensure a treatment or product will work for you, without putting your face at risk first, is to do a spot test. This is literally just putting a pea-sized amount on your forearm or hand and noting any possible irritations, burning, or discomfort that arise. Happy zit zapping!
The Manuka honey I use:
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001O0BL9E/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o03_s01?ie=UTF8&th=1
Trusted Honey:
