In recent years, TikTok has become a governing body in our society, dictating many of our purchases and everyday decisions. Especially when it comes to beauty. The app even has a #beautytok, a place where you can learn about the latest hacks, products, and trends in just 10 minutes of scrolling. One of the latest new products that caught our attention? Turmeric soap and its benefits for the skin.
Content What is turmeric? Turmeric soap for skin care: are there any benefits? Risks of using turmeric on the skin
WomanEL became curious about whether it is true that this remedy fights acne. Find out what experts think about this.
What is turmeric?
Turmeric is a flowering plant that is often used as a spice in Indian, Southeastern, and Middle Eastern cuisine. The yellow-orange herb has a warm, bitter flavor and a strong, earthy aroma that can be easily recognized by its shape. Turmeric is also known for its health benefits, from fighting disease to aiding digestion.
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So it makes sense that it has become a popular skincare product in recent times. Many claim that it has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. As for its effects, many TikTok users note that turmeric soap can help with everything from hyperpigmentation and dark spots to acne. But is there any scientific evidence to support this claim? And is it really suitable for everyone?
While many people report positive results for their skin, there are those who warn against using turmeric soap, claiming it increases breakouts. Given the mixed reviews, we decided to ask the experts if you should add this orange spice to your skincare routine.
Turmeric soap for skin care: are there any benefits?
Experts say turmeric reduces the growth of microorganisms and sebum production. This may be helpful in treating skin conditions like acne, and it also has anti-inflammatory properties. “By reducing skin inflammation, turmeric may help prevent clogged pores that lead to acne,” says dermatologist Joshua Zeichner.
“By allowing the skin to function optimally, cells can increase the amount of healthy collagen to maintain a strong skin foundation. And turmeric's active ingredient, curcumin, can lighten hyperpigmentation by blocking one of the key enzymes needed to produce melanin in the skin.”
While the herb has its benefits, there’s no one-size-fits-all approach to this spice. “Homemade turmeric soaps are not subject to the same rules and regulations as store-bought ones, whether they contain turmeric or not,” says dermatologist Cori L. Hartman.
“Soap sold in the store must meet government requirements for cleaning products. I recommend buying soap from trusted manufacturers with a good reputation, who often list all the ingredients in their homemade soap.”
It's also important to pay attention to the percentage of turmeric in the soap you buy. “The most effective range is between 5 and 15 percent. And most people typically don't need to increase the active ingredient percentage to see results,” says Dr. Hartman. He recommends Aspen Kay Naturals Turmeric Complete Soap ($10) as a natural option that uses organic turmeric. Or, opt for Dove's Turmeric Milk & Lemon Drop Soap ($6) for a drugstore option.
Risks of using turmeric on the skin
Turmeric soap should be used with caution if you have sensitive skin, Source: freepik.com
While turmeric may help some people with hyperpigmentation or acne, not all skin is created equal. So it's important to be cautious when trying this trend. And for those with sensitive skin, it's best to use it sparingly. For the latter skin types, be wary of using soaps with high concentrations. This can lead to irritation. You can tell by the color: “If the soap is ruddy, red, almost clay-like in color, it likely has a higher concentration of turmeric,” says Dr. Hartman.
He also recommends using a broad-spectrum sunscreen to protect your skin from UVA and UVB rays after using turmeric soap, as it can increase sun sensitivity due to the active ingredient, curcumin. “It has photosensitizing properties. They make your skin more susceptible to UV rays when you use products with this ingredient,” says Dr. Hartman.
So, experts agree that using turmeric soap, as TikTok claims, does have some benefits, but probably in moderation. Important: Discontinue use if you notice any adverse reactions.
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