In India, turmeric has been an age-old remedy for a number of dermatological conditions with records of the South Asian root found in Ancient Indian medical scriptures. Recent scientific studies have found evidence of possible therapeutic skin and health benefits of turmeric.
A primary constituent of turmeric is curcumin, a bio-active component, which is largely known for its anti-inflammatory and anti-microbial properties making it a beneficial herb for the skin.
Acne and Turmeric
While there are several factors that lead to acne, one of its main causes is bacteria. Certain conditions cause skin cells to block the sebaceous or oil glands leading to an oil buildup underneath the skin. The buildup activates the bacteria, Propionibacterium acne, which is the most abundant bacteria found on the human skin. The bacteria, when activated, multiply resulting in acne and inflammation of the surrounding skin tissues.
Turmeric with its main component of curcumin is an anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory herb. A recent study suggested that curcumin’s anti-bacterial property can help constrain a number of bacteria including Propionibacterium acnes.
Moreover, turmeric has also been proven to decrease inflammation and manage oxidative stress in human skin. It also helps in the treatment of acne scarring and hyperpigmentation.
Treating Acne with Turmeric
Treating acne and pimples with turmeric has been a go-to remedy in almost every Indian household. Turmeric can be used topically in DIY home remedies or with over-the-counter skin products and can be taken as oral supplications.
Yogurt and Turmeric
Yogurt is a natural exfoliator and moisturiser. A face pack of turmeric and yogurt can help fight acne-producing bacteria, reduce inflammation and give you well-moisturised skin.
Ingredients:
Yogurt – 2 tbsp
Turmeric – 1 tbsp
Preparation Method:
- Add Yoghurt to turmeric powder
- Mix well to form a smooth paste
Apply the paste evenly on your face or the target area and rinse after 15 minutes with lukewarm water. Do this twice a week.
Honey and Turmeric
Honey is naturally antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory. It also speeds up the healing process of the skin and has moisturising properties resulting in soft and supple skin. A face pack of turmeric and honey can help reduce the acne-producing bacteria and speed up the healing process.
Ingredients:
Turmeric – 2 tbsp
Honey – 1 tbsp
Water – 2 tbsp
Preparation Method:
- Add the three ingredients to make get a thick mixture
Apply the mixture evenly on your face or the target area. Rinse it off after 10-15 minutes with lukewarm water. Do this thrice a week.
Aloe Vera and Turmeric
Similar to turmeric, owing to its natural healing properties, aloe vera has been used in traditional medicine for centuries. Aloe vera has anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant, anti-microbial, hydrating and anti-aging properties. A combination of turmeric and aloe vera can help combat acne and pimple conditions.
Ingredients:
Aloe vera gel (either sourced directly from a plant or over-the-counter) - 2 tbsp
Turmeric - ½ tbsp
Preparation Method:
- Mix the two ingredients well to get a thick paste
The mixture can be applied to the affected area or evenly on the face.
Wash after 20 minutes.Do this thrice a week.
Sandalwood and Turmeric
Sandalwood helps nourish the skin and is known for its antiseptic and healing properties. A mixture of turmeric and sandalwood can help reduce the inflammation of the skin and fight against acne-producing bacteria. It can also help lighten the acne and pimple scars.
Ingredients:
Sandalwood powder - 2 tbsp
Turmeric - ½ tbsp
Water - as required
Preparation Method:
- Mix the three ingredients to get a thick paste
Apply the paste evenly on your face or problem areas and leave for 20 minutes.
Rinse with lukewarm water. Do this twice a week.
Skincare Products with Turmeric
The hectic days of our everyday lives often leave us with no time for these DIY home remedies and in such times easy, non-messy skin care products come as our knight in shining armour. Due to its anti-inflammation and antioxidant properties, turmeric extract can be found in a number of skin products.
Here are a few of SkinQ’s products with active ingredient turmeric extract and their benefits.
Hydrate Facial Kit is formulated for dry and dehydrated skin. If you’re struggling with dull, itchy and sensitive skin then your search for the right product ends here. With active ingredients like Hyaluronic Acid, Turmeric extracts, Shea Butter, Niacinamide and Rose Hip Oil, the 5 step facial will leave you with instantly hydrated, smooth and bright skin.
Uneven skin tone, tanned, blotchy and pigmented skin can take a toll on our self-esteem. Treating these skin troubles has never been as easier as it is with our Detan Facial Kit.
Dermatologists at SkinQ have formulated the detanning kit with active ingredients like Licorice, Niacinamide, Aloe Vera, Glycolic Acid and Turmeric Extract.
Dealing with acne and acne scars is often a tough battle when choosing the suitable product for our skin becomes a task in itself. This is why dermatologists at SkinQ have created Acne Control Wonder Mask, especially for Indian skin. Formulated with Salicylic Acid, Niacinamide, Colloidal Sulfur, Zinc PCA. and Turmeric extracts, our acne control wonder mask developed for acne-prone skin unclogs pores, reduces acne and reduces spots & marks.
Oral Supplications
To combat skin conditions of acne and pimples among others, turmeric can also be taken orally.
Turmeric Milk or Golden Milk:
Turmeric milk is again an age-old recipe known for its several benefits including its anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties.
Preparation Method:
- Add one teaspoon to a cup of milk and bring it to a boil
Drink before bed when still warm.
Turmeric Tea:
Turmeric can also be taken orally in the form of tea to attain its dermatological benefits.
Preparation Method:
- Add 1/2 teaspoon of turmeric to a cup of water and bring it to a boil
- Simmer for 2 minutes
- Honey or lemon can be added for taste
Drink while still warm.
Oral supplications should be taken after a consultation with your doctor. If you are pregnant or trying to conceive, oral consumption should be avoided.
On a Final Note
Turmeric has been a part of the Indian medicine heritage for years. It has proven to help in a number of skin conditions and is available to us at the tip of our skin whether in the form of home remedies or over-the-counter skin products.
However, it is good to remember that every skin is different and may react differently to products and thus, it's advised to have a patch-up test before trying out new skin treatments. If you’re still having a difficult time understanding your skin, your dermatologist can help you understand the needs and requirements of your skin or your could understand your Skin Quotient better by ask the SkinQ Mirror.