Rosh HaShanah, the first day of Tishrei, coincides with the sixth day of Creation and marks the anniversary of mankind, when Hashem created Adam and Chavah. It’s also the beginning of the new lunar calendar year, which begins this Monday evening at sundown.
On this Day of Judgment, we embark on the serious task of examining our lives and doing teshuvah for any wrongs we have committed. It is a time to make amends and strive to be better in the coming year. Nevertheless, Rosh HaShanah is filled with hope, because Hashem, the Almighty, is compassionate, forgiving, and willing to accept our prayers and repentance.
At the beginning of the Rosh HaShanah meal, we dip our apples (representing Gan Eden) in honey—quintessential symbols of a sweet new year. Apples, sweet fruits known for their healing properties, and honey, which signifies our hope that the year will be sweet, combine for a double dose of sweetness. We beseech Hashem: “May it be Your will to inscribe us for a good and sweet new year.”
Honey contains beneficial components that help keep you healthy. It is rich in vitamins, enzymes, and minerals. Besides being a delicious and nutritious sweetener, it can work wonders for your skin, as it has antibacterial, antiseptic, and anti-inflammatory properties. In addition, it can also hydrate your skin. Read on to discover ten skin benefits you can enjoy with leftover honey after Rosh HaShanah.
Acne – To fight acne and reduce redness, combine 1 Tbsp honey (anti-inflammatory) with ½ tsp cinnamon (antibacterial). Apply wherever you have acne and wash off after 10 minutes.
Hydrating Hair Mask – Because of its moisturizing properties, honey helps restore moisture to dry, damaged hair. Mix 2 parts honey with 2 parts olive oil. Apply to damp hair, wrap into a bun, then shampoo out after 30 minutes for smooth, conditioned shine.
Dry Lips – Honey is a great humectant that moisturizes and heals dry, chapped lips. Dab directly onto lips to hydrate and restore lost moisture.
Facial Cleanser/Exfoliant – The enzymes in honey cleanse and rejuvenate skin. Mix 1 Tbsp honey with 1 Tbsp ground oatmeal (a gentle cleanser/exfoliant). After removing makeup, massage onto skin for a few minutes, then rinse for a healthy glow.
Face Mask – For a simple, effective mask, use plain honey. It’s loaded with nutrients and enzymes that clarify skin, retain moisture, promote healing, and can lighten the look of acne marks—leaving a beautiful glow. Let sit for 20 minutes, then rinse.
Smooth Cracked Cuticles – Thanks to honey’s humectant properties, it attracts and seals in moisture to help hydrate and soften rough cuticles.
Soften Rough Patches – To smooth dry knees and elbows, mix 1 cup brown sugar, ½ cup olive oil, and 3 Tbsp honey. Gently scrub, then rinse off; skin will feel noticeably softer.
Healthy Skin From Within – Enjoy a spoonful of honey a day. It tastes great and contains antioxidants, minerals, and B vitamins that support healthy-looking skin.
Hair Removal (Sugaring) – This time-tested waxing method is safe, natural, and often less painful than traditional waxing. Bring to a boil: 1 Tbsp honey, 3 Tbsp brown sugar, and 1 Tbsp lemon juice. Once it boils, it becomes sugar wax. Cool about 20 minutes (always test temperature first). Spread on hair, then use a cotton strip to pull in the opposite direction of growth.
Calm Eczema – During a flare-up, apply raw honey to the area for 10–15 minutes, then rinse. Sit somewhere you won’t stick to surfaces. Honey can help soothe and calm irritated skin.
Wishing everyone a Shanah Tovah U’Mesukah—a very sweet and happy new year—filled with besuros tovos.
Risselle Naimark is a Professional Freelance Makeup Artist and Skincare Consultant. She carries an extensive line of personalized skincare, cosmetics, and anti-aging products. Risselle is also available for weddings, Bar Mitzvahs, makeup lessons, and all of your beauty needs. She can be reached at 718 263-5517.
