You might think of turmeric as the flavorful ingredient in your favorite curry, but did you know it can also do wonders for your skin? When applied topically, turmeric has many cosmetic benefits, including supporting a more youthful appearance, helping skin heal naturally, and reducing inflammation. It can even help you get rid of unwanted body hair!
What Does Turmeric Do for Skin?
Turmeric has anti-inflammatory properties. This may help enhance your skin’s natural glow and provide a more youthful appearance. Because it decreases inflammation, it also helps in the wound healing process and can help you control acne or psoriasis flare-ups.
Turmeric may support collagen production. This protein is responsible for your skin’s elasticity and “youthful” volume. By encouraging collagen production, turmeric can help skin appear healthy.
Here are a few ways to incorporate turmeric into your skincare routine:
Turmeric Face Mask
A homemade turmeric mask is an easy and affordable way to experience turmeric’s benefits for your skin. Try this turmeric and honey mask for glowing skin.
Ingredients
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 2 tablespoons flour (regular, rice or oat will work)
- 3 tablespoons milk or yogurt
- 1 teaspoon of honey (use manuka for added acne-fighting power)
Method
- Mix flour, turmeric, honey, and milk or yogurt
- Apply a thin layer to your face and let it dry for 20 minutes.
- Rinse off with warm water, scrubbing gently to remove.
- Apply your favorite moisturizer to lock in benefits.
Turmeric Oil
Purchasing a turmeric facial oil is another excellent way to experience the cosmetic benefits of turmeric. These oils contain concentrated amounts of turmeric and sometimes other moisturizing and anti-aging ingredients to support healthy skin and reduce inflammation.
For the best results, these oils should be applied before bed. Leave them on your face overnight and then wash off the next morning with face soap and warm water. Use three to four times a week for optimal results.
Turmeric Paste to Slow Hair Growth
Turmeric can also be used to slow body hair growth. However, effectiveness will depend on your hair’s texture, and results will be less dramatic than waxing products, shaving, or chemical hair removal creams. If you’re looking to remove unwanted facial hair, try this DIY turmeric paste recipe.
Ingredients
- ½ cup cold milk
- ½ cup flour
- 2 tablespoons turmeric powder
- 1 tablespoon sea salt
Method
- Combine all ingredients and mix until a sticky paste forms
- Apply to the skin area where unwanted hair is growing
- Leave for 15 minutes until dry
- Rinse off with warm water and pat dry with a soft cloth
If your skin stains yellow, use witch hazel or apple cider vinegar to reduce coloration.
Can I Apply Turmeric to My Face Every Day?
While there are many turmeric benefits, it’s important to be mindful of the dosage and how the type of product you are using might react to any other medications you are taking.
Turmeric’s low bioavailability means your body does not absorb much - so avoid taking too much at once and wait to see how your body will react before taking more.
Turmeric can also stain your skin yellow - this is temporary. However, more severe reactions, like irritation, redness, and swelling, can occur if you are allergic to spices, so it’s best to apply a very small amount to your arm and wait a day to confirm you won’t have any adverse reactions.
Takeaway
Turmeric is not only a delicious spice, but it also offers many health benefits and can help improve the appearance of your skin. Applying skin topically can reduce inflammation and help with a variety of skin conditions.
