A hero with skincare formulators turmeric has potent antioxidant with anti-inflammatory benefits, say editor Trudi Brewer. But most importantly, new research confirms this bright orange, East Asian spice is now showing promise as a sunscreen filter. Read on to learn more.
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What can turmeric do for your skin?
From calming the skin to clearing acne breakouts and boosting collagen, a recent study in Dermatology Times article believes turmeric or curcumin ( the bright yellow chemical produced by turmeric) is on the fast track for FDA approval as a natural sunscreen filter. According to this study, this spice also accelerates wound healing from inflammatory skin conditions such as psoriasis. In addition, its antibacterial benefits make it excellent for treating fungal and viral skin infections. According to New York dermatologist Julie Russak, MD. "Curcumin can help our body give us the ability to repair and improve our cellular mechanism and can withstand the effects of internal and external ageing." From sprinkling it on your food or adding to a smoothie daily, or incorporating it in your skincare, experts believe it will enhance the wellbeing of your body and skin.
From tinted moisturisers to face oils, here’s the skincare we rate that is laden with turmeric.
Kora Organics Turmeric Glow Moisturizer, $78.
We adore this luxe-y clean, organic treat for dry skin. It’s boosted with turmeric and liquorice root extract, noni fruit, desert date, maracuja and rosehip oils, as well as marine algae. Finally, this cream is energised by citrine, a stone believed to promote skin radiance, and it’s also refillable, which means you get to keep the gorgeous jar forever.
How to use: This is your day and night cream - a little goes a long way.
Essano Superfoods Certified Organic Turmeric Radiance Super Serum, $30.
Another clean beauty buy is this potent serum that contains activated turmeric, jojoba seed oil, aloe vera, milk thistle, as well as hyaluronic acid. Created to boost moisture in the skin and promote collagen regeneration.
How to use: Apply after cleansing your skin, twice a day
Sunday Riley C.E.O. Glow Vitamin C + Turmeric Oil
$64.
Made to recharge dull-looking skin it’s made with a blend of vitamin C infused oils such as red raspberry, cranberry and golden turmeric. Not only does it give skin a gorgeous glow it’s also a brilliant antioxidant to protect the skin from UV damage.
How to use: Use a couple of drops morning and night under sunscreen and night creams, apply to the face, neck and décolletage.
Nars Pure Radiant Tinted Moisturiser, $72.
Oil-free, this tint leaves a translucent veil of colour on the skin that is laden with antioxidants, including turmeric, mineral-rich seawater, and Kopara from French Polynesia. At the same time, light-diffusing pigments give your complexion a great-looking glow.
Finally, titanium dioxide helps screen out those damaging UV rays.
How to use: Blend onto the skin fingertips, over your sunscreen.
One of our favourite ways to start the day is a smoothie. This golden morning pick-me-up is crammed with antioxidants, protein and carbs - it’s a shot of beauty, from the inside out.
Turmeric smoothie
1/2 Banana, frozen
One tablespoon fresh turmeric, grated (or one teaspoon ground turmeric)
One teaspoon fresh ginger, grated (or 1/3 teaspoon ground ginger)
One cup of frozen mango or pineapple chunks
One cup of almond milk or coconut milk.
Blend together and drink immediately.
Ideal for Christmas gifting.