Turmeric is a vibrant yellow-orange colored spice that people in Asia have used for 4,000 years in food and traditional medicine. Fun fact: Before Indian nuptials, a turmeric paste is ritually applied to the bride’s face and body for a radiant glow.

 

It seems these lovely brides are on to something and here’s why...

 

Turmeric’s benefits – including tackling acne, dark spots and aging  – are due to the compound curcumin, which has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

 

The multitasking compound is an ideal alternative to other topical treatments because it's well tolerated and works directly on affected skin, states a 2013 study published in the Journal of Drugs in Dermatology.

Here are four great reasons why the spice you love in your favorite curry dish should be part of your healthy skincare regime, too.

 

• Acne Fighter: Turmeric is an antibacterial, anti-inflammatory and antiseptic. This means it can treat acne, inflammation and redness like nobody’s business. According to a 2013 study turmeric benefits for acne are remarkable. The  investigation tested a twice-daily facial application of a turmeric-containing cream on human volunteers. The results showed the treatment improved skin conditions that plague so many beauties out there. The antibacterial power calms skin and speeds the healing of larger, open blemishes. What’s more, its antiseptic properties fight off acne and prevents that nasty bacteria from spreading. And then the anti-inflammatory effect reduces redness and swelling.

 

• Reduces Dark Spots, Evens Skin Tone: Do you struggle with age spots, liver spots, sun spots AKA hyperpigmentation? This harmless, yet maddening condition is caused by many reasons:  damaging UV rays, genetics, acne scarring, and even some types of medications. Hormonal havoc (think pregnancy or contraception), and normal aging can trigger dark spots or blotches on your skin, too. A 2018 study showed turmeric greatly reduces dark spots.  The curcumin contains a powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant that reduces excess production of melanin, which helps to even skin tone and lighten scars left over from pesky acne episodes.

 

• Fights Aging: As an antioxidant, turmeric helps fight off those sneaky free radicals that trigger skin aging. Turmeric protects against the aging effects of sun damage UV radiation and the formation of wrinkles and dark spots. And as if that wasn’t enough wonderfulness, turmeric helps prevent loss of skin texture and elasticity. Oh, and did we mention it helps to keep your skin soft and smooth? Yep, that too! It’s also an effective – yet gentle -- exfoliant, sloughing off dead skin cells and promoting skin cell renewal. It revitalizes as it brightens the skin for a healthy, natural glow.

 

• Pack Your Bags: You know those puffy dark undereye bags that visit you after a late night or two? Since turmeric is a proven anti-inflammatory and lightening agent it’s perfect for alleviating this beauty concern. It stimulates circulation, which can help reduce puffiness and under-eye darkness caused by poor circulation.

 

Top skincare gurus recommend a high-quality face mask featuring Turmeric, Aloe Vera and Vitamin C to even skin tone and texture, tackle dark spots and acne, and more.

 

For a mask that includes these three natural superheroes, as well a host of powerful skin-loving antioxidants try Gleamin™  Vitamin C Clay Mask. This easy-to-apply product promises to revitalize your complexion so you can put your best face forward.