Turmeric for acne, is it true

Turmeric has long been used in traditional medicine because it is considered to have health benefits. In fact, turmeric is also often used as a natural ingredient in skin care products. So, is turmeric effective for treating acne?

Benefits of turmeric to treat acne

Acne is a chronic disease that is quite common in almost everyone. This skin condition is actually easy to treat if treated immediately, including by using a number of natural ingredients to treat acne. One of them is turmeric. Why is that?

Turmeric contains an active compound called curcumin which is known to have a myriad of benefits, including anti-inflammatory properties. In addition, turmeric also contains antioxidants and anti-aging which can be used for certain diseases.

If it is associated with acne, curcumin as an anti-inflammatory substance in turmeric plays a major role in expelling acne-causing bacteria.

You see, inflamed pimples are caused by bacteria Propionibacterium acnes (P. acnes). Meanwhile, research from Chemical and Pharmaceutical Bulletin reported that curcumin was effective at killing bacteria P. acnes on animal skin.

In fact, curcumin is also said to be more effective than acne medications containing azelaic acid. Even so, the study was tested on animal skin, so it is possible that the curcumin effect on turmeric for human acne is not the same.

What's more, the anti-inflammatory properties of turmeric and curcumin have not been scientifically proven to get rid of acne. However, some experts claim that turmeric can help fade hyperpigmentation or blackened acne scars.

Side effects of using turmeric for acne

Turmeric is indeed a natural ingredient, but that does not mean it is safe and suitable for use by everyone. The reason is, researchers found that applying turmeric directly to the skin with acne can cause side effects, such as:

• red skin,
• hives, and
• blistered skin.

Therefore, before using natural acne remedies, you should first test the compatibility of this spice with your skin. You can do this by rubbing turmeric under your arm for 24 - 48 hours.

Then, see if any negative reactions arise. If there is slight irritation or the skin feels itchy, it is best if turmeric is not applied to the face or other parts of the skin.

In addition, turmeric can leave a yellow stain that is hard to get rid of on your skin and nails. Even so, you can clean it by rubbing the affected area several times more frequently.

Tips for using turmeric for acne

However, the anti-inflammatory properties in turmeric are quite high, so you might be able to use this spice as a supporter of acne skin care. Here are some ways you can take advantage of turmeric to treat acne.

Add it to cooking

One way to get the benefits of turmeric for skin health is to use it as a spice in cooking. It is no longer common knowledge that various turmeric-based dishes are known for their health. You can process turmeric into dishes such as curries, soups, and pepes to enjoy.

Drink turmeric tea

Another alternative to getting the benefits of turmeric to treat acne is drinking turmeric tea. Now there are many instant teas that contain turmeric that can be drunk. You can also make turmeric tea with the addition of honey or other ingredients according to taste.

Take turmeric supplements

If you want a more practical option, turmeric supplements are the solution. However, you should consult your doctor before using this supplement, especially when you are on certain medications.

This is because the curcumin in turmeric can interact negatively with certain drugs. High doses of curcumin can also cause stomach upset.

Turmeric mask

Turmeric masks are quite a popular choice when one wants to get the anti-inflammatory benefits of turmeric for skin health, including acne. Apart from buying at the store or beauty products that are sold in the market, you can also make this mask yourself.

How to make:

• Mix half a spoon of turmeric powder with 1 teaspoon of honey or according to taste.
• Mix well.
• Apply the turmeric and honey mixture on clean, dry skin.
• Leave the mask on for 10 - 20 minutes, rinse thoroughly.

If you have further questions about using turmeric for acne, consult a dermatologist to find the right solution.