Turmeric powder contains curcumin and other organic plant components. The antiseptic and anti bacterial properties of curcumin in turmeric powder cleanse and break down the bacteria causing the pus to come out while the anti-inflammatory properties break down the inflammation reducing the redness, heat and swelling. Also, turmeric is also a good pain killer. Acne sufferers have reported that overnight application of turmeric powder mask considerably reduces the size of inflamed acne. Curcumin also helps acne damaged tissues to heal faster.
Turmeric is useful in drying out acne and removing blemishes. To use it on acne, you can make a creamy paste of turmeric with coconut oil or sesame oil. Either warm this paste in a tea spoon and then apply, or dab it just like that on the acne. Cover the acne and surrounding area completely with this paste. Use this paste at least 20 minutes before going to bed so that it dries before your face contacts the pillow. Leave it overnight to experience the difference in the size of acne in the morning.
Turmeric is also effective for acne produced by hormonal changes in women. It takes hardly 2-3 days for acne to disappear completely, without leaving any acne spots behind. Vinegar can also be added to turmeric paste and applied to acne. You can also opt for a combination therapy comprising of neem leaves and turmeric powder for application as a paste on the areas affected with acne. Both have antiseptic properties and helps control inflammation.
The greatest advantage of turmeric treatment is that it not only dries out the acne, but it also stops any blemish formation or making skin flaky or dry. It also is useful in having a glowing complexion if applied everyday on the whole face before taking a bath, even for 5-10 minutes. This face mask is habitually used by South Indian women and their clear, smooth skin is an indicator of its effectiveness.
It is important to note that the characteristic yellow colour of turmeric stains human skin and clothing and is quite hard to wash off. The staining effect of turmeric on human skin is very evident for persons with light skin tone. Washing with soap and water may not be adequate to remove the yellow stain of turmeric on the skin. It may take several days before the stain disappears. Also, it is advised to apply the turmeric paste to the acne affected areas only. To apply turmeric on the non-affected areas, it is vital to add more water to make it less concentrated. Overall turmeric is said to improve the quality of your skin.
