Turmeric
When so many ingredients out there are heralded as the best-in-the-biz. It can be hard to keep track of what to keep in your beauty wardrobe and what works best for your unique skin type.
Our Apothecary school is here to guide you through all things skincare.
This week, we’re looking no further than a simple ingredient that you can find in many a household’s food cupboards…
Did you know that herbs and spices contain more antioxidants than any other food group? You may have heard of the ever-so-popular, brightly-coloured spice, Turmeric. Often used in Asian and Middle Eastern cuisine, but did you know it is packed with numerous health and beauty benefits?
Now, turmeric (or ‘Indian Gold, as it’s often referred to), has fast become the health-boosting hero of the last decade. Cafes started creating antioxidant turmeric lattes, and beauty brands were incorporating the anti-inflammatory ‘super-powder’ into formulations. However, you don’t need to spend your life savings on a face cream to bring some golden glow into your routine.
Our very own Turmeric Superfood Restoring Treatment Mask is a wonder formulation. It provides antioxidant protection and hydration to boost radiance whilst balancing out your skin tone.
Hang on, let’s go back a bit...
What is Turmeric?
A rooted plant that is closely related to Ginger. It is unmistakable because of its bright, orange/yellow colour, a result of the active Curcumin (the secret behind Turmeric’s ‘powers’). It has been used for centuries as an anti-inflammatory to help treat wounds and pain. It has powerful anti-inflammatory effects and is a very strong antioxidant. Curcumin is very anti-inflammatory and in some cases, has been tested to be more effective than some anti-inflammatory drugs, without the side effects.
How can Turmeric help me?
Well, it’s got a little bit of everything in it. Research has shown that turmeric has major benefits for both the body and the brain. Turmeric contains antioxidants and anti-inflammatory components. These characteristics may provide glow and lustre to the skin. Turmeric may also revive your skin by bringing out its natural glow.
Not only this, but turmeric is said to prevent the adverse effects of exposure to UVB radiation. Which can cause fine lines, wrinkles, and discolouration as well as reduce the skin's elasticity. So how does turmeric do this? UVB radiation increases the production of the enzyme matrix metalloproteinase-2 (MMP-2). Once activated it degrades collagen leading to wrinkles and less smooth-looking skin. Turmeric prevents sun damage by reducing the production of MMP-2 which in turn reduces the amount of collagen degradation. The upshot is less skin damage.
And it’s said turmeric may also help prevent or reduce acne outbreaks due to its antibacterial properties. Turmeric contains fatty acids and phytosterols, which have been found to reduce excess oil in the skin. One study found applying a cream containing an antioxidant extract from turmeric to the skin twice daily. Reduced oiliness by 25%; with a drastic change noticeable from as early as 4 weeks.
Naturopathic doctor and holistic health expert Dr Nigma Talib states,
“It’s my favourite beauty-boosting spice, turmeric's anti-inflammatory powers are second to none, turning back time on the skin.”
How can you make the most of Turmeric’s skin improving potential?
Ensuring that you’re eating well, in general, is a must for the best results, as is regular consumption of turmeric. But you can also make the most of the powerful results by applying it topically in products that have turmeric formulated into it.
Turmeric can be used on all skin types, but it's particularly great for dull, itchy and/or sensitive skin. That’s why we recommend our Turmeric Superfood Restoring Treatment Mask, to transform your complexion in only 20 minutes (with continued usage)
Fortified with nutrient-rich Turmeric Root Extract, our mask aims to create a barrier against moisture loss and banish blemishes thanks to its skin-calming powers. Adding our highly moisturising, cream-textured Turmeric mask into your weekly routine will promote the brightening of your skin by aiding in cell regeneration. It works quickly to smooth your skin’s complexion and provide a surge of moisture to achieve a plump, dewy and brighter complexion!
