Turmeric

What Is Turmeric? 

Now, we know you’ve probably tried it in a curry or chai latte, but turmeric’s skin-enhancing benefits mean you should be smearing this delicious golden spice all over your face too.

What Does Turmeric Do? 

The biggie: turmeric is a badass anti-inflammatory. And, since inflammation is the root cause of so many skin woes, you needed to start using it… Like, yesterday, especially if you suffer from rosacea or psoriasis. Not only will this wholesome ingredient soothe redness and calm irritation, but it also defends skin against damaging free radicals that cause premature skin aging – wrinkles, age spots and sagging!

For the acne-prone, turmeric’s antibacterial properties help disinfect breakouts and speed up the healing process – all the while, minimizing scarring. Its skin-boosting prowess doesn’t end there, if dark-circles are getting to you, then you’re going to want to jump on the turmeric bandwagon, too. A natural brightening agent, it will reduce the appearance of under-eye darkness and stimulate circulation to minimize puffiness – a double whammy. And, to top it all off, studies suggest that turmeric reduces collagen breakdown when taken orally, so keep an eye out for supplements touting this game-changing ingredient.

Who Should Use Turmeric?

A great all-around ingredient for achieving gorgeously glowy skin, it’s especially helpful for those with acne scarring, psoriasis, and rosacea.

How To Use Turmeric In Your Routine

Adding turmeric to your skincare routine is super easy, especially if, like us, you love a good DIY facemask. But please, whatever you do, don’t use it just before a big event (i.e. birthday bash or big date) because turmeric seriously stains everything it comes into contact with, sometimes even your face, and it will take a few rounds of washing with hot, soapy water to remove (which we do not recommend doing). Unfortunately, clothes aren’t so lucky, so wave bye-bye to that T-shirt. If DIY just ain’t your jam, fear not, there are a whole host of turmeric-laced skincare products on the market, from spot treatments to body scrubs and serums to cleansers.

DIY Get Glowing Face Mask

We’re all after gloriously glowy skin, right? Well, this DIY mask boasts not one, not two, but three skincare superstars ready to convert even the fiercest of cynics: honey, yogurt and, of course, turmeric. A smoothie for the skin, it will instantly recharge your complexion, giving you an enviable glow.

Ingredients

• 1 teaspoon Turmeric
• 1 teaspoon organic honey (anti-inflammatory and antibacterial to hydrate, heal and soothe)
• 2 tablespoons greek yogurt (antioxidant to fight acne, combat wrinkles and moisturize)
• ¼ banana, peeled (anti-inflammatory and anti-aging to control oil production, tighten and moisturize).

Directions

1. Mix the ingredients in a small bowl.
2. Stir the ingredients until thoroughly mixed.
3. Apply the mask to a clean, dry face using an old makeup brush or spoon.
4. Leave for 20 minutes.
5. Rinse off with warm water.

Our Fave Turmeric Skincare Products:

Source: Kora

Kora Organics Turmeric Brightening & Exfoliating Mask, $60: This super potent two-in-one mask is like an instant at-home facial – revitalizing, softening and brightening skin while promoting cell renewal and clearing pores (pretty hard-working, huh?).

Source: The Inkey List

The Inkey List Turmeric Cream Moisturiser, $11: This moisturizer deserves a spot in your skin regime’s starting line up – not only does it hydrate and heal stressed-out skin, but it also takes radiance-boosting to the next level, with a powerhouse combination of turmeric, squalane, and vitamin E.

Source: Sunday Riley

Sunday Riley C.E.O. Glow Vitamin C and Turmeric Face Oil, $38: Press recharge with this glow-giving infusion of vitamin C and turmeric – it’s gained a dedicated following, thanks to its power to boost radiance while brightening and evening out skin tone, for that healthy glow we’re all trying to achieve.

For more amazing skincare ingredients, check out our Beauty Glossary.