Everywhere you look in the health and wellness world these days, turmeric is there. The spice’s bright yellow hue and earthy flavor can be found in everything from traditional Indian food to juices, lattes, desserts – and yes, skincare. Find out why turmeric may just be the answer to your natural beauty woes.
Here’s the good news about turmeric: your skin may benefit from it both when used topically and taken internally. And while recent research has brought into question the validity of some previously published findings on its benefits, there’s no denying that this antioxidant-rich root shows results. Here’s why we love it as part of a skincare regimen.
1. Anti-Aging: Sure, that term gets tossed around quite a bit, but clinical studies have found curcumin, the most commonly studied compound in turmeric, can help to reduce chronic inflammation, which often shows up as bloating, puffiness, and skin conditions like acne and eczema. Its use has also been linked to a reduced appearance of fine lines and wrinkles associated with aging skin. According to the website Natural Living Ideas, “dark spots and changes in skin pigment were also reduced by nearly 15%.”
2. Balances Skin Tone: If it seems that no matter what the weather or which skincare products you use (or don’t use) that oiliness persists, turmeric may be your almost-literal pot of gold. Consistent use of turmeric has been linked to decreased skin oil production, helping to reduce the occurrence of breakouts. The benefit doesn’t come from the curcumin, though. According to Natural Living Ideas, “this beneficial effect was likely because turmeric contains fatty acids and phytosterols, which have been observed in other studies to reduce excess skin oils.”
3. Sun-Damaged Skin Reparation: Let’s be clear – there’s no magic pill to undo damage caused by excess sun exposure. And nothing except avoiding it can decrease your risk of skin cancer. That being said, turmeric is a bit of sun ninja. It’s got the ability to help prevent damage from ultraviolet B radiation due to its ability to block an enzyme that leads to the loss of collagen.
Want to give your skin a turmeric boost? Start with our Calendula and Neem Soap with Turmeric.
Photo by Ariel Lustre on Unsplash
