The humble spice turmeric has come a long way from an ingredient in daily cooking to a skincare regime, and the latest in golden milk latte recipe. Known for its anti-inflammatory, anti-microbial and antioxidant properties, there is not a single bodily issue that cannot be healed by this multipurpose spice. Touted as a superfood, turmeric may support health in many ways- as an antidepressant, in preventing diabetes; even cancer, fighting various viruses and easing joint pain. As a healing agent, Turmeric finds its place in many ayurvedic and traditional Chinese medicine, and as skincare ingredient, it provides glow and lustre to the skin.
Why Turmeric works?
Turmeric powder has the active ingredient curcumin that helps to treat conditions that involve skin inflammation. It is the presence of curcumin only which gives turmeric a typical yellow colour.
Turmeric powder is also an antioxidant and has antimicrobial properties.
How I use it in my skincare regime:
As face cleanser: Mix 1 tablespoon of gram flour (besan) and 1 teaspoon of turmeric. Add little yoghurt or raw milk to make a smooth paste.
Apply a thin layer on the face for 10-15 minutes and wash it off with lukewarm water. Besan cleanses and exfoliates the skin. The lactic acid in milk polish off the dead skin cells and rejuvenate the complexion.
As a face mask: Turmeric is high in antioxidants that slow down cell damage. though there are many DIY face masks one can make with turmeric, my favourite ones are these:
Make a mask by mixing a pinch or two of turmeric with rice flour or ground oats along with raw milk for glowing skin, and to soothe facial skin you can mix turmeric with Aloe Vera gel and apply it on the face for 15 minutes before washing it off.
To make a DIY anti-ageing mask, make a paste of little milk, honey and a pinch or two of turmeric. Apply on the face for 10-15 minutes and wash with water.
Spot treatment for acne: Because of its antiseptic and antibacterial properties, turmeric can be used to fight pimples and breakouts. One can make a little paste with turmeric and water and apply it topically on acne. To treat pigmentation on the skin, mix turmeric with little cucumber juice or lemon and dab a little on the mark for 10-15 minutes before washing it off.
Reduce Under-eye circles: Turmeric can rescue you from dark circles and puffiness under the eyes. All you have to do is mix a pinch or two in a tablespoon of curd and a few drops of lemon juice, apply a thin layer of the paste under the eyes and wash it off with lukewarm water after 10 minutes.
For hair: Turmeric can be used to treat dandruff. Mix turmeric and Olive oil and apply it to the scalp. Leave it for 10-15 minutes and then shampoo your hair.
Read about Aloe Vera DIY skincare here
Things to remember while using turmeric: Turmeric is harmless when used topically but don’t leave it on the skin for a longer duration as it leaves a yellow tinge. Milk can be used to remove the yellow tint from the skin.
Always moisturize the face after you remove the mask.
When used in oral supplements, it might cause upset stomach or cramps.
THE TAKEAWAY: Turmeric revives the skin by bringing out its natural glow. This sunset–yellow spice helps ease the issue related to skin inflammation.
This post is a part of Blogchatter Half Marathon.’
Turmeric, is really great for skin, i really liked the way you have mentioned the procedure…
The goodness of Turmeric is really amazing. In our culture, it plays an important role as an antiseptic and is an integral part of the cuisine. Its use in skincare too is time-tested. Sandy N Vyjay
for us south Indians Turmeric is a super ingredient for the skin. I swear by honey, turmeric, besan and curd face pack . it is the best . I never knew it works wonder for the under eye as well
I have just begun to explore the idea of home made diy type of things for my skin and hair and self care. this is a helpful article with really easy ways to take care of skin. i will try this out.