Turmeric is one of those natural ingredients that can be easily added to soap and is beneficial for many skin conditions. Discover all the excellent skin benefits turmeric soap offers and whether it lives up to the hype of recent years.
If you've been following this blog for a while you know that we've made turmeric soap from scratch together. And, not too long ago I also shared an easy melt and pour turmeric soap recipe which turned out beautiful. But today we're not making soap, but rather taking a deep dive into turmeric soap's many wonderful skin benefits.
What is Turmeric?
Turmeric root is a spice whose key ingredient curcuma has long been praised for its antioxidant and antimicrobial properties. As a staple in Ayurvedic medicine and skincare, it has been used to treat all kinds of skin ailments for over 4000 years.
Let's see how turmeric soap could benefit your skin health:
Cleansing
It's soap, so naturally, it will clean. Handmade turmeric soap, however, does so in a very gentle manner. It keeps the natural skin barrier undisturbed and replenishes lost oils.
It's important to avoid harsh skin care products, especially if you have dry or sensitive skin. Natural soap can be used for all skin types as a body soap, but lotion or shea butter should be used afterward to replenish moisture.
Exfoliating
Turmeric acts as a gentle exfoliator, removing impurities, dead skin cells, and excess oil and revealing your skin's natural glow.
Removing dirt, sweat, and bacteria from your skin is particularly important if you have oily or acne-prone skin. You want your pores to be as clear from debris as possible to avoid further skin problems later.
May Lighten Hyperpigmentation
Turmeric's active ingredient curcumin has been shown to inhibit melanin production in human skin. Too much melanin can cause dark spots and other types of hyperpigmentation. Incorporating turmeric into your skincare routine can improve uneven skin tone and the appearance of dark spots due to sun exposure.
Some folks report that their complexion looks brighter after using turmeric soap regularly, there are no official studies that prove a brightening effect, however.
Can Reduce Acne and Acne Scars
Turmeric's real superpower lies in its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties which can help reduce acne on several levels. First, it can prevent skin cells from clumping together, one cause of clogged pores and breakouts. Secondly, it can have an antiseptic effect on acne-causing bacteria. Lastly, it may reduce skin inflammation, which will help the healing process and may help prevent acne scars.
Turmeric Soap and Anti-Aging
Turmeric powder has indeed been shown to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles and help with signs of premature aging due to free radicals. But - here comes the caveat - using turmeric as a face soap might be too drying, especially for mature or dry skin. In this case, applying a turmeric face mask would be much more beneficial. You can buy face masks that have turmeric in them, or you can easily make your own.
That way, the turmeric has time to work on your sensitive skin and give you all the nourishment your skin needs.
What You Can Expect
Using turmeric soap regularly is a great way to cleanse and exfoliate your skin gently. If you're using additional beauty products containing turmeric, then using turmeric soap regularly can enhance and prolong its effects.
If you have more persistent skin issues like dark spots and wrinkles, try a turmeric spot treatment: mix one teaspoon of turmeric powder with two tablespoons of coconut oil to create a thick paste, apply to skin, and leave on for 20 minutes, rinse with lukewarm water and pat dry.
Turmeric soap is no wonder product: it won't reduce hair growth, dramatically whiten your skin, nor lessen the appearance of stretch marks. Soap washes off quickly, meaning whatever active ingredients are in the soap don't have long to work their magic. Use it with other skincare products, be patient, and keep realistic expectations.
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