Turmeric, often dubbed the golden spice, is revered across medical disciplines for its vibrant hue, distinct flavour, and potent medicinal properties. It has always been a favourite among Indian households – a trusted remedy for those who grew up with it. Feeling sick? Have some haldi doodh. Stomach feeling funny? Brew some turmeric tea. Its soothing properties aren’t lost on anyone, which naturally makes it a top choice for skincare too.
I’ll delve into the numerous health benefits of turmeric, debunk some myths and share a few quick and easy do-it-yourself face mask recipes for supple, glowing skin.
Turmeric health benefits
Anti-inflammatory antioxidant properties: Turmeric has many anti-inflammatory properties. It helps alleviate redness, swelling, and discomfort. According to Mary-Eve Brown, an oncology clinical dietitian/nutritionist at Johns Hopkins Medicine, turmeric has a natural compound (polyphenol) known as curcumin, which has both antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
Antioxidants neutralise free radicals, the unstable molecules responsible for oxidative stress and premature ageing. By scavenging free radicals, turmeric protects skin cells from damage, thus helping to prevent wrinkles, fine lines, and other signs of ageing.
Brightens skin tone: Turmeric is also known for its exfoliating properties, which can help restore balance and radiance to your skin. It gently buffs away dead skin cells, helping with sun damage, age spots, and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.
However, this brightening effect is temporary, and people with generally sensitive skin or pre-existing conditions shouldn’t scrub themselves too much with turmeric. Excessive scrubbing can lead to the deepening and spreading of hyperpigmentation and acne.
Shields from environmental damage: Exposure to the sun, pollution, and other external aggressors can lead to the formation of free radicals. Thankfully, the phytonutrients in turmeric can neutralise them, mitigating the potential impact of environmental damage on the skin.
Don’t fall for myths
If used in limited quantity and after mandatory patch testing, turmeric can yield several benefits for your skin. However, for maximum results, it’s also important to steer clear of some myths.
Turmeric from your local stores is good enough: When opting for a food item for its health benefits, making a wise choice is paramount. Random store-bought turmeric powders won’t do. It is essential to identify the plant species and how it was sourced and cultivated, along with the processes it underwent. Watch out for additives, and check the powder’s potency.
Turmeric is the be-all and end-all cure: Despite its numerous health advantages, turmeric is not a one-size-fits-all solution. It should not be considered a replacement for medical treatment.
Turmeric is completely risk-free: Contrary to popular belief, excessive intake of turmeric can lead to adverse effects. Supplements with elevated levels of TMC (turmeric-derived compounds) can lead to nausea, diarrhoea, and even kidney stones. Consult your doctor to be on the safe side.
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Try these turmeric face masks
Tan control: If you’re looking to reduce your tan, mix a tablespoon (tbsp) of good-quality turmeric powder with a tbsp of tomato juice. Apply it on the skin for about three to five minutes before washing it off with plain water. The antioxidants in turmeric and the lycopene in tomato will work to reduce your tan effectively.
Dry skin: If your skin has gotten too dry and you’re looking to restore it with a little moisture try this – one tbsp of turmeric powder, mixed with 1 tbsp of tomato juice and 1 tbsp of curd or parboiled milk. Apply this for three to five minutes and then wash it off with plain water. You’ll feel the difference.
Oily skin: Turmeric can also work to reduce oiliness and stickiness. So, for this recipe take about one tbsp of turmeric powder and mix it with equal amounts of tomato juice and water. Apply this for three to five minutes and then wash off with plain water to reduce oiliness.
Please avoid using these face masks if there are any cuts or infections in the area you plan to apply them over. These have always been my go-to mask recipes, but I must reiterate that people with sensitive skin or issues like acne, hyperpigmentation, and allergies must not opt for these. Your best option would be to consult with a trusted dermatologist.
Turmeric’s a valuable addition to any skincare routine – only if you ensure that it checks all the right boxes.
Dr Deepali Bhardwaj is a dermatologist, anti-allergy specialist, laser surgeon and internationally trained aesthetician. She tweets @dermatdoc.
(Edited by Zoya Bhatti)