Daily Trust Sunday

Beauty benefits of Turmeric (kurkum)

- Compiled by Rosemary Etim Bassey

Turmeric, a vibrant golden spice commonly found in kitchens, has transcende­d past its culinary use to become a beauty powerhouse. Packed with curcumin, an active compound, turmeric offers a plethora of beauty benefits that have been embraced by cultures for centuries.

Anti-inflammato­ry properties:

Turmeric’s potent anti-inflammato­ry properties help soothe irritated skin and reduce redness. Whether you struggle with acne, eczema, or psoriasis, incorporat­ing turmeric into your skincare routine can provide relief and promote a calmer complexion.

Natural antioxidan­t: Acting as a natural antioxidan­t, turmeric helps combat free radicals, preventing premature aging and maintainin­g youthful skin. Free radicals contribute to the breakdown of collagen, leading to wrinkles and fine lines. Including turmeric in your beauty regimen may help protect the skin from oxidative stress.

Brightens and evens skin tone: Turmeric is renowned for its skin-brightenin­g effects. Regular use can help fade dark spots, hyperpigme­ntation, and even out the skin tone, leaving you with a radiant and glowing complexion. Consider incorporat­ing turmeric into face masks or creams for targeted applicatio­n.

Acne treatment: Turmeric’s antibacter­ial and antiseptic properties make it an effective natural remedy for acne. It helps control excess oil production, unclog pores, and reduce inflammati­on. Mixing turmeric with honey or yogurt to create a face mask can be a soothing and effective treatment for acneprone skin.

Reduces scarring: Turmeric’s ability to modulate collagen production aids in wound healing and may minimize the appearance of scars and blemishes. Applying a turmeric-infused paste or cream on affected areas can contribute to a smoother skin texture over time.

Exfoliates and detoxifies: Turmeric serves as a gentle exfoliant, promoting the removal of dead skin cells and unclogging pores. Its detoxifyin­g properties make it an excellent ingredient for maintainin­g clear and healthy skin. Consider creating a DIY turmeric scrub by mixing it with natural exfoliants like sugar or oatmeal.

Hair and scalp health: Turmeric is not just limited to skincare; it can also benefit your hair and scalp. Its antiinflam­matory properties can soothe scalp conditions, while its antioxidan­t content promotes healthy hair growth. Mixing turmeric with coconut oil and applying it to your scalp can help nourish the roots and improve overall hair health.

Natural hair remedy: Turmeric can enhance the natural lustre of your hair and address issues like dandruff. When combined with other natural ingredient­s such as yogurt or aloe vera, turmeric can be used in hair masks to rejuvenate and revitalise your locks.

Reduction of under-eye circles: The anti-inflammato­ry and antioxidan­t properties of turmeric can help reduce puffiness and dark circles under the eyes. Creating an under-eye mask with turmeric and aloe vera gel can be a refreshing treatment for tired eyes.

Soothing sunburn relief:

Turmeric’s healing properties extend to sunburn relief. Its anti-inflammato­ry nature can help soothe sun-damaged skin. Mixing turmeric with yogurt or aloe vera and applying it to affected areas can provide a cooling sensation and aid in the recovery process.

While turmeric offers numerous beauty benefits, it’s essential to perform a patch test before applying it directly to your skin, especially if you have sensitive skin or allergies. Additional­ly, consulting with

 ?? ?? a dermatolog­ist can provide personaliz­ed guidance on incorporat­ing turmeric into your beauty routine for optimal results.
a dermatolog­ist can provide personaliz­ed guidance on incorporat­ing turmeric into your beauty routine for optimal results.

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