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Maybe you’ve heard of a honey mask, and you’ve probably done a yogurt mask at some point. But let me introduce you to a turmeric face mask. Rich in antioxidants this mask helps reduce inflammation, tame acne, and improve skin tone.
Turmeric has many uses, but it’s most famous for its ability to reduce inflammation in the body. I like whipping up some turmeric golden milk or a turmeric cinnamon latte. Sometimes I’ll even brush my teeth with it to help remove stains (yes, really!).
We can also use turmeric for skincare. Word of caution here though. Turmeric will stain skin, fabric, and certain surfaces, so proceed with caution. And no, we’re not going to look like Oompa Loompas after this, but be careful not to go overboard with the turmeric.
Much like how turmeric fights inflammation in the body, it also helps reduce inflammation on the skin. 2019 research in the journal Nutrients looked at curcumin, the main active ingredient in turmeric, for different skin complaints. Researchers found curcumin helped with psoriasis, eczema, and other inflammatory skin conditions.
Turmeric has a long history of use in India and other countries, both for cooking and skincare. It’s traditionally used to brighten skin tone. A 2012 article in Phytotherapy Research points to turmeric’s ability to improve dark spots. Turmeric works by reducing the darker shade of melanin that gives skin its pigment. This is ironic since high amounts of turmeric can also stain skin. Scientists are even exploring its use in skin bronzers!
Because it’s anti-inflammatory and antioxidant, there’s evidence curcumin can help fight sun damage. Turmeric has a protective effect in reducing inflammation damage on skin. Over a dozen studies have found curcumin has a powerful effect against cancerous skin cells. This doesn’t mean rubbing turmeric paste on our skin will cure skin cancer. However, turmeric can help give our skin more of the tools it needs to protect against sun damage.