LWL | Exploring the Efficacy of Honey as a Natural Moisturizer for Eczema

Abstract 

This paper aims to provide an observational study on the efficacy of honey as a natural moisturizer, by testing out a honey-based moisturizer on various skin types and observing the impact it had on each skin type whilst also getting feedback and reviews based on how successful the participants felt the moisturizer was in alleviating their skin. This study will be done with the help of a dermatologist to understand whether the patient being treated can be prescribed a honey-based moisturizer. This overall will help understand some of the advantages and disadvantages of using a honey moisterizer for eczema rather than other prescribed and artificial moisturizers

Introduction 

In recent years, there has been a growing interest in harnessing the potential of natural substances for skin care. Among these, honey has emerged as a promising candidate due to its myriad of biological properties. 

Honey, a complex mixture of sugars, amino acids, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, has been used for centuries in various traditional medicine systems for its healing and moisturizing properties. Its humectant nature enables it to attract and retain moisture, making it an ideal candidate for topical application to the skin. 

Studies have demonstrated that honey possesses emollient, hydrating, and barrier-restoring properties, which contribute to its ability to soothe, soften, and moisturize the skin. High moisturizing properties have been found in matrices with a glycerin extract of honey. Barrier properties were enhanced by gradual absorption, especially in formulations with both glycerin and aqueous honey extract. Moreover, its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory characteristics may aid in the management of various skin conditions, including dryness, eczema, and dermatitis. 

Honey is a natural moisturizer and a humectant that binds moisture to the skin. It also contains enzymes that allow moisture to penetrate deeply into the skin, bringing much-needed hydration to the deeper layers 

Furthermore, honey exhibits antioxidant activity, protecting the skin from oxidative stress-induced damage and premature ageing. Its pH-balancing properties help maintain the skin's natural acid mantle, promoting overall skin health and resilience. 

Overall, this study highlights the potential of honey as a natural moisturizer and underscores the importance of further research to elucidate its optimal use in skincare formulations.

Method 

A sample of 95 study subjects aged 1-35 years was included in this study from a diverse demographic pool enrolled from a dermatology clinic. The study subjects included 20 individuals with mild eczema who were not receiving any dermatological treatment, 30 individuals with dry skin and 45 individuals with combination skin. All participants were provided with honey-based moisturizer and instructed to apply it twice daily for four weeks. Subjective assessments of skin hydration, smoothness, and overall satisfaction were recorded through validated questionnaires every fortnightly. Adverse reactions and compliance were monitored throughout the study period 

Results 

This cross-sectional study revealed significant improvements in skin hydration among all groups following four weeks of honey-based moisturizer use. Subjective assessments indicated enhanced smoothness and overall satisfaction and notably decreased itchiness and inflammation among participants with mild eczema. Adverse reactions were minimal, and compliance was high among participants with various skin types. 

The study also showcased the differences between moisturizers with honey vs without and how vastly different their components are. Honey in specific is a natural humectant which essentially attracts and retains moisture from the environment allowing the skin to become soft and supplanted. This quality is especially beneficial for individuals who suffer from eczema as their skin barrier is usually compromised and can lead to excessive dryness. Moisturizers without honey don't have a natural humectant and generally use glycerin and urea to achieve similar results. It was also very easy to see that unlike synthetic ingredients found in other moisturizers, honey is an appropriate solution for almost all skin types especially sensitive skin types, making it a delight for all skin types

Conclusion 

This study demonstrates the potential of honey as a moisturizer, particularly in alleviating symptoms of itchiness among individuals with mild eczema. The findings suggest that honey-based moisturizers may offer a holistic approach to managing skin dryness and improving overall skin health, with specific benefits for eczema sufferers. Honey has some concerns that should be considered when using, the lack of standardization being one of the major ones. Unlike various other pharmaceutical-grade ingredients found in honey moisturizers, the composition of honey can vastly differ due to factors such as floral source, processing methods etc. Without a fundamental line, there are concerns regarding consistency and efficacy. Honey is also not an all-size-fits-all situation, different people may have harmful side effects from using honey moisturizer and therefore they should be prescribed by a dermatologist. Further research is warranted to elucidate the underlying mechanisms and long-term effects of honey in skincare, particularly in clinical settings. It is important that all future studies carried out follow international standards for clinical trial reporting

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