Turmeric is called the Golden Spice not just for its hue, but for its many properties. The turmeric plant, botanically called Curcuma longa (from the ginger family of plants), has many properties. Its roots, its paste, its powder and its oil, all find widespread use in the kitchen and in healthcare. The focus here would be turmeric essential oil for skin lightening and skincare.

Turmeric has been used in traditional medicinal uses since time immemorial. Its health-related benefits make it indispensable. The uses of turmeric and its oil are not just limited to skincare, hair care and stomach-related ailments. The benefits of turmeric extend beyond its raw root and powder. The essential oil extracted from the plant has the same benefits.

Turmeric essential oil is obtained by steam distilling the roots or rhizomes of turmeric plants. The yellowish fluid from the process has a strong spicy scent, which when diffused in small quantities is reminiscent of turmeric. The oil has many properties.

The journal Phytotherapy Research published a study in 2016 that investigated the effects of turmeric oil on the skin (1). The research found that the oil has many positive effects on the skin. (The oil has good effects when applied on the scalp including stopping hair loss, itchy scalp and dandruff.) So, let’s find out how turmeric essential oil is useful in skincare.

Beauty Benefits of Turmeric Essential Oil For Skin

1. Turmeric Essential Oil For Skin Lightening

The essential oil of turmeric gives a glow to the skin. Turmeric has long been considered a skin lightening agent. Even today, several marriage ceremonies involve applying turmeric paste on the bride and groom to give them an instant glow for their special day.

The oil, with its potent antiseptic and antioxidant properties, is applied to reduce hyper-pigmentation, dark spots and scars. When applied on a regular basis the anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties of turmeric oil gives the skin a radiance. 

A 2017; a randomized, double blinded trial published in Phytomedicine, confirms the skin lightening properties of the oil (2). For turmeric essential oil benefits for skin mix 4 drops of turmeric oil in 4 tsp of almond oil, or mix 2 drops of turmeric oil and 3 tbsp of olive oil and massage on your face for radiant skin.

SUMMARY

Applying diluted essential oil to your face will lighten the skin tone and it will soothe the skin.

2. Turmeric Essential Oil Treats Skin Infections

The oil has powerful characteristics. These properties of the oil help in the treatment of rashes and skin infections. It moisturizes the skin and hence deals with dryness. A thin layer of turmeric oil diluted with coconut oil or olive oil can be applied on the infected skin.

This blend of oil can be used on skin infections including psoriasis, eczema and dermatitis. It can also be applied on wounds and yeast infection to get soothing relief. A 2013 research article mentions the antidermatophytic properties of the compounds in turmeric essential oil.

3. Turmeric Essential Oil For Acne Outbreaks

Turmeric has health-related properties that can clear the skin. Several studies have found that the compound curcumin present in turmeric has strong properties that act against acne vulgaris.

The anti-inflammatory properties of the oil also lower the inflammation of the skin and lowers redness of skin. The soothing effect of turmeric oil mixed with almond oil ensures that the acnes are prevented.

4. Turmeric Essential Oil For Atopic Dermatitis

The skin condition of atopic dermatitis is a type of eczema and mostly impacts children. However, the American Academy of Dermatology has stated that the condition also affects adults. In adults, the condition is felt near the eye region.

A 2015 randomized clinical trial published in a medical journal found that topical formulation in the form of gels, ointments and microemulsions prepared with Indian pennywort, Walnut and Turmeric extracts could be used as a treatment for eczema. (3).

More research is needed to ascertain the benefits of turmeric oil for eczema, but a 2019 study published in the journal Nutrients shows promise. (4)

5. Turmeric Essential Oil Anti-ageing Agent

Turmeric oil is known to reverse the biological clock of an aging skin. Modern day lifestyle can fasten the aging process, the first evidence of which is visible on the skin. The astringent properties of turmeric oil along with its antioxidant and hydrating qualities is potent in delaying the onset of sagging skin fine lines and wrinkles. 

When the oil is regularly applied it cleanses the skin, moisturizes the skin and tightens the pores, thereby giving the skin a youthful glowing appearance. The ultraviolet ray and environmental pollution also disrupts the natural oil balance of the skin. This gradually affects the skin’s elasticity. The antioxidants in the oil neutralize the free radicals and the astringent nature of the oil tightens the skin, thus helping it retain its elasticity. 

The peer-reviewed medical journal Current Pharmaceutical Design in 2010 published research that concluded that the compound curcumin (also found in turmeric) may be an excellent anti-aging agent. (5) Curcumin is a potent antioxidant that neutralizes the free radicals and boosts skin’s collagen production. Ever hear of Tricutan? It is a potent blend of several herbs, including turmeric. 

A 20017 randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind, split-face study found that tricutan increased skin firmness. This study was published in the international journal Phytomedicine. (6)

6. Turmeric Essential Oil For Dark Circles

One of the prevalent issues affecting the skin is dark circles. It can happen due to stress, long hours in front of the computer screen, unhealthy eating or sleeplessness. Hyperpigmentation can also result in under-eye dark circles. The skin lightening effect of this essential oil is a boon for dark circles. The oil not only lightens the skin, but also reduces the puffiness around the eyes.

7. Turmeric Essential Oil Skin Moisturizer

Dry skin is a common skin type. The winter season also wreaks havoc on the skin’s hydration, which makes the skin look dull and of course dehydrated. But not to worry, topical application of turmeric oil on the face helps hydrate the skin and keeps the moisture trapped in the skin.

There are several cosmetic products that use turmeric oil as an ingredient. These products include face masks, creams and lotions. Natural homemade face masks can also be made with turmeric oil to moisturize skin.

Uses of Turmeric Essential Oil in Skin Care

The following are the uses of turmeric essential oil in skin care:

• Turmeric essential oil contains curcumin, which possesses potent anti-inflammatory properties. It can be used to calm skin inflammation, redness, and irritation.

• The turmeric essential oil can combat free radicals, promoting healthier and more youthful-looking skin.

• Its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties make it effective for managing acne. It can help reduce the appearance of blemishes, prevent breakouts, and promote a clearer complexion.

• If used persistently, turmeric essential oil can assist in reducing the appearance of dark spots and hyperpigmentation, leading to a more even skin tone and brighter complexion.

• The oil's antioxidant content contributes to a natural glow by revitalizing dull and tired-looking skin, enhancing its overall radiance.

• Turmeric essential oil can help regulate excess sebum production, making it beneficial for those with oily or combination skin.

• It can be applied on the face to remove skin blemishes caused by fungal infection.

How To Use Turmeric Essential Oil for Skin Lightening?

(DIY Recipes with Turmeric Oil For Skin)

1. Face Masks with Turmeric Essential Oil

Face masks with turmeric and turmeric oil as an ingredient are easily available online and in physical stores. However, face masks can be made at home with all natural ingredients and it removes blemish just as well as store bought products. Here’s a list of ingredients needed for a turmeric face mask for blemish-free skin.

Ingredients

• 3 drops of turmeric essential oil or 1 teaspoon of turmeric powder
• 3 drops of sandalwood essential oil or 1 teaspoon of sandalwood powder
• 1-2 tablespoons of honey
• Half teaspoon of lemon juice
• A bowl
• Some water

2. Face Cleanser with Turmeric Essential Oil For Skin

Turmeric oil cleanser prepared at home is used to take care of dark spots and prevent acne. Face cleanser will help remove the dirt. Here’s how to make a homemade face cleanser.

Ingredients

• 5 drops of turmeric essential oil
• 1 tablespoon of chickpea or besan powder.
• Milk as required
• Bowl

3. Turmeric Essential Oil and Carrier Oil For Face Care

A few drops of turmeric essential oil mixed with suitable carrier oil would suffice for an everyday face care routine..

Ingredients

• 5 drops of turmeric essential oil
• 2 tablespoons of any carrier oil (coconut oil or jojoba oil or extra virgin olive oil)

One can substitute turmeric oil with turmeric powder. The benefit of using turmeric powder is that it can be used internally as well. However, turmeric oil must never be used internally.

Risks Associated With Turmeric Oil For Skin

• Turmeric essential oil is a concentrated product. If it is directly applied on the skin it may cause side effects including rashes and redness. A small skin patch test should be done the first time using turmeric essential oil.
• The bioavailability of turmeric oil is less, which means that the body does not absorb much of the turmeric and burns it quickly.
• Using high doses of turmeric and turmeric oil will prove detrimental especially if someone is on medications. It might cause reactions with certain medications. Consult with a doctor before taking essential oils.
• Using too much turmeric on the skin can leave the skin yellowish. This is normal; however, it must be used with care.

Conclusion

Turmeric oil is an essential oil extracted from the roots of a turmeric plant and is in concentrated form. This oil has several health benefits. It can be applied on the skin to improve the health and appearance of skin..