Turmeric has come a LONG way in the past couple of years from being used in dishes to being a consistent beauty staple in treating a multitude of things from hair problems to skin problems. The active compound in turmeric is called curcum, and is a yellow pigment that is packed full of antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. When applied to the skin, this powerful powder fights bacteria to eliminate and prevent acne, breakouts, and blackheads, all while reducing the appearance of acne scars, dark spots, and stains. These turmeric face masks serve to cure a multitude of problems including acne, but focus more on eradicating stubborn acne scars and dark spots.
Health Benefits of Turmeric for the Skin
It comes as no surprise that turmeric is not just a superfood for your body. It also acts as a super ingredient for your skin. This all natural ingredient can help with a multitude of skin conditions from treating acne, to helping fade scars, and even tighten the skin. Let's look a little more closely at the skin benefits of turmeric.
Fights Breakouts: Those who suffer from acne as well as the occasionally breakout, can count on turmeric powder. Turmeric contains antibacterial and antimicrobial properties which fight off acne breakouts, and also prevent them. Treat acne once and for all with turmeric!
Reduces Swelling: Because it contains anti-inflammatory properties, turmeric can also help with swelling. This includes pustules and cystic acne. Mask a simple turmeric mask by combining water and turmeric powder and apply directly to the affected area. Be sure to leave on for 15 minutes for best results.
Fades Scars & Spots: Acne scars, dark spots, age spots, and sun spots can all be treated with a little patience and some turmeric powder. Use any one of the recipes below and apply directly to the scar or spot on your skin. Make sure that the skin is clear of makeup and cleansed before application. Leave on for 10 to 15 minutes and rinse off. Pat dry, and repeat several times a week for at least one or two months. Consistency is key when trying to get rid of scars and spots!
Reduces Wrinkles: Applying a turmeric mask two or three times a week for 30 minutes can not only keep wrinkles and fine lines at bay, but can also get rid of them. Turmeric contains properties which help to tighten and brighten the skin.
Exfoliates: Although it doesn't have any granules, turmeric powder also gently exfoliates the skin. This will leave skin softer, younger looking, and brighter. Exfoliating is an important part of your skin care regimen, because it gets rid of dead skin cells to reveal newer, softer skin. Exfoliate once a week if you have dry or sensitive skin, and twice a week for oily and acne prone skin.
Hydrates: Surprisingly, turmeric can also hydrate the skin by getting rid of the old top layer of dead skin cells and revitalizing the skin. It also helps protect the skin from further damage.
Turmeric Face Masks
#1. Turmeric & Lemon Face Mask
- 1 tbsp turmeric
- 2 tbsp freshly squeeze lemon juice
Mix both ingredients together and stir until well combined. Apply to a clean face and let sit for 15-20 minutes. Rinse with warm water and pat dry.
Why it Works: Lemons have powerful astringent properties and will shrink pores, all while naturally bleaching acne scars and dark spots. Turmeric works to prevent excess oil and breakouts.
#2. Turmeric & Aloe Vera Face Mask
- 1 tbsp turmeric
- 1 tbsp aloe vera gel (pure)
- Water
Mix turmeric with aloe vera gel and add a little bit of water until the mask forms a smooth paste. Apply to a clean face and neck and leave on for 20 minutes. Rinse off and pat dry.
Why it Works: Aloe vera has powerful soothing properties, therefore reducing the appearance of scars and dark spots.
#3. Turmeric & Milk Face Mask
- 1 tbsp turmeric
- milk
To a bowl, add 1 tbsp turmeric, and add enough milk to make a smooth paste. Apply to a clean face and neck leave on for 15-20 minutes. Rinse off and pat dry.
Why it Works: The lactic acid in milk sloughs off dead skin cells, revealing softer, plumper skin, and, over time, getting rid of scars and dark spots.
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When I do a turmeric face mask, sometimes it leaves my skin yellow. Is there any way to prevent that from happening?
It actually all depends on the quality of the turmeric. As you’re making the turmeric mask, it should be a bright yellow color, but it no way should it stain your skin. I would highly recommend you purchase high quality turmeric. A lot of times, fake coloring is added to turmeric, and therefore ends up staying. Look for 100% organic, naturally derived turmeric powder from your local health store or Indian grocer.
I LOVE using turmeric in face masks! It’s true it CAN leave your skin a little yellow, but that goes away within a few minutes. There is something in turmeric though that just leaves skin so damn glowing and beautiful! Thanks for sharing 🙂
I know, aren’t turmeric masks just the best?! And so easy to make too 🙂
what other ingredients can i combined with turmeric??
Hi Jenn,
You can combine turmeric with almost anything! I like to combine it with rose water, honey, and even plain old water will work!
can I use turmeric mask every day?
Hi Loney,
I would recommend you only use it twice a week, because it does tend to stain, and it can be quite powerful.
how long does it take for the scars to go away?
Hi Laura,
It all depends on the severity of the scars, how quickly your skin heals, and how often you apply the spot treatment. Obviously the more you do it, the more effective it will be. But in general, you should start to see the scars fade a little after about a month of use!
what kind of aloe vera get should I use? does it have to be straight from the plant?
Hi there,
It doesn’t necessarily have to be straight from the plant, but we do recommend you use a 100% aloe vera gel that doesn’t contain any other ingredients which can actually harm the skin.
I use turmeric masks all the time and ever since I started my skin has never looked better. A lot less breakouts, smoother skin, and my dark spots have also started to fade.