Turmeric is not only good for spicing up food. Aside from being a hero ingredient in curry, it also has multiple skincare benefits. Turmeric has long been used in Eastern medicine. As dermatologist Dr. Mona Gohara tells Instyle, the spice has antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. Dr. Gohara adds that studies have shown that turmeric helps in fighting some forms of cancer. She goes on to say that in a 2005 medical study, it has been found that curcumin in turmeric has anti-cancer properties that suppresses melanoma cells and triggers the death of tumor cells.
In skin care, the anti-inflammatory properties of turmeric help with psoriasis, eczema and everyone's number one enemy, acne. In addition, its antioxidants help halt signs of skin aging, prevent sun damage and even out skin tone. Dermatologist Dr. Rachel Nazarian also tells Allure that when taken orally, it can reduce collagen breakdown, hair loss and cardiovascular diseases. Dermatologist Dr. Kavita Mariwalla agrees and shares that she takes a 500-milligram turmeric supplement daily. You can try Jane Iredale Skin Antioxidant Capsules.
DIY Turmeric and Honey Mask
According to Marie Claire, this turmeric and honey mask keeps popping up on skincare threads of Reddit. Like turmeric, Dr. Joshua Zeichner confirms that honey has natural anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. Mixing turmeric and honey is an ideal treatment for anyone dealing with acne, inflammation, and dark spots.
Here are some recipes to try at home.
For normal, non-reactive skin:
Mix half a teaspoon of turmeric to a tablespoon of honey. Double the amount if you need more. Just make sure the mixture will cover your entire face.
Layer the mixture evenly on your clean and dry face.
Keep the mask on for 10 to 20 minutes then rinse off. You can double cleanse using a cleansing oil then a foaming cleanser if you notice a yellow tinge on your skin.
Also read: Azelaic Acid is the Gentler Alternative to Salicylic Acid and Benzoyl Peroxide for Treating Acne
For sensitive or acne-prone skin:
Use the same proportions of turmeric and honey.
Add half a teaspoon of aloe vera gel to calm redness.
Add one tablespoon of almond oil or squalene to avoid skin irritation.
You can also add 1 teaspoon of rosewater to soothe inflammation and for extra hydration.
For exfoliation:
Combine half a teaspoon of organic turmeric, one teaspoon of honey and two tablespoons of organic plain yogurt. Mix well then add one tablespoon of ground oats to the mixture.
Apply evenly on your face. The coarse texture of the oats will gently exfoliate away dirt and excess oil. Rinse well after 10 to 20 minutes and apply moisturizer.
If you have never used any of these ingredients on your face, it's best to do a patch test before spreading it all over.
Turmeric-infused Skincare Products
Aside from DIY recipes, there are already some skincare products in the market that feature turmeric. Dr. Gohara loves Sunday Riley CEO Glow Vitamin C and Turmeric Face Oil, while Allure also recommends the following:
Andalou Naturals Turmeric Enlighten Serum
Clarins Double Serum
Cocokind Turmeric Spot Treatment
Crop Natural Purifying Turmeric Mask
First Aid Beauty Hello FAB Ginger & Turmeric Vitamin C Jelly Mask
Kiehl's Turmeric & Cranberry Seed Energizing Radiance Mask
Kora Organics Turmeric 2-in-1 Brightening & Exfoliating Mask
Verso Antioxidant Turmeric Booster Serum
Volition Turmeric Brightening Polish for Face and Body
YLLO Turmeric Facial Scrub
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