What are the benefits of turmeric for the skin?

Turmeric powder possesses proven antibacterial properties. Indeed, it contains several active ingredients capable of limiting the growth of certain bacteria, making it an excellent supplement for combating acne or eczema. Turmeric powder notably contains turmerone, which has antimicrobial activity against certain dermatophytes, fungi that exacerbate eczema.

Curcumin, found in turmeric, is an active ingredient that inhibits the FtsZ protein, which plays a crucial role in bacterial cytokinesis, corresponding to the final stage of cell division. This protein typically assembles into a ring (Z-ring) at the centre of the bacterial cell before it divides. By inhibiting this process, curcumin prevents the bacteria Cutibacterium acnes, involved in acne, from multiplying.

This natural ingredient is highly valued by skins lacking radiance or heavily exposed to pollution due to its antioxidant properties. Once again, it is curcumin that is at work, and more specifically its chemical structure. Composed of double bonds, curcumin can donate an electron to free radicals, which allows them to be stabilised and neutralised. Let's remember that free radicals are reactive species generated in excess in melanocytes and keratinocytes following high exposure to UV rays or pollution. Curcumin thus protects cells against peroxidative damage caused by free radicals. Lipid peroxidation is a chain reaction leading to the damage of cell membranes and the disruption of the hydrolipidic film.

The turmeric also has anti-inflammatory activity, which comes from the curcumin it contains. This molecule acts particularly by inhibiting the induction of the COX-2 membrane protein, which is at the origin of several inflammatory processes and releases prostaglandins, playing a pathological role. Curcumin is also capable of preventing the synthesis of certain pro-inflammatory cytokines, such as interleukins 1α and 6 (IL-1α and IL-6, respectively) but also the tumour necrosis factor (TNF-α). These various actions of curcumin make turmeric powder an ally in cases of redness, pain or itching.

The turmeric is often incorporated into age-targeting skincare due to its protective action on collagen and elastin, conferred by the curcumin it contains. The collagen and elastin are fibrous proteins in the dermis that provide flexibility and elasticity to the skin. It has been particularly shown that curcumin helps to block elastase, an enzyme catalysing the hydrolysis of elastin, that is, its degradation. Indeed, it acts by stimulating the activity of α1-antitrypsin, a natural inhibitor of elastase transcription.

This molecule also has the ability to inhibit the activity of the matrix metalloproteinase-2 (MMP-2). This is a complex that triggers the synthesis of an enzyme whose role is to degrade collagen. By ensuring better stability for the latter, turmeric slows down skin ageing.

The healing power of curcumin has been demonstrated in several studies. This molecule notably accelerates epithelialisation and angiogenesis, the process of synthesising new blood vessels, by increasing the expression of the TGF-β1 growth factor. Furthermore, curcumin protects the cells of the epidermis and dermis thanks to its antioxidant power, which results in a better migration of fibroblasts at the wound site.

It is important to note that the healing process is crucial for individuals suffering from skin conditions, such as eczema or acne. Indeed, a damaged skin allows bacteria and allergens to penetrate more easily, thereby causing more inflammatory reactions in the case of atopic dermatitis. As for acne, the effects of curcumin in topical application were highlighted in a recent study conducted on about fifty people with acne lesions. It was shown that after four weeks of applying a cream containing turmeric powder, individuals noticed a significant reduction in the number of lesions on their face, back and chest.

The turmeric powder has photoprotective properties and helps to prevent hyperpigmentation issues. Moreover, it contains several actives that inhibit melanogenesis. A study conducted in vitro on skin cells has shown that curcumin has an inhibitory effect on the activity of tyrosinase, the enzyme that allows the conversion of tyrosine into melanin. Furthermore, it was shown in the same study that curcumin induced a decrease in the expression of the gene coding for tyrosinase.

Alpha-turmerone, another compound found in turmeric powder, also acts on brown spots by inhibiting the synthesis of the hormone α-MSH (α-melanocyte-stimulating hormone), a hormone that activates certain melanocortin receptors. These receptors trigger the production of melanin. Alpha-turmerone can also prevent the phosphorylation of the CREB protein (C-AMP response element-binding protein). This phosphorylation triggers a cascade of reactions leading to the stimulation of tyrosinase transcription.

Turmeric powder has a stimulating effect on microcirculation of blood. This property is particularly beneficial for individuals suffering from heavy legs or those wishing to reduce their bluish dark circles. While the effect of curcumin on circulation has been demonstrated in a scientific study, the mechanism by which this molecule operates remains unknown and further research is still required.

The curcumin found in turmeric also has the ability to limit the proliferation of keratinocytes, which is excessive in individuals suffering from psoriasis for instance. This is due to its ability to inhibit the synthesis of certain pro-inflammatory cytokines, such as interleukins 1α and 6 (IL-1α and IL-6). In addition to playing a role in the immune response, these cytokines act as a growth factor for keratinocytes. Their inhibition therefore helps to reduce keratinisation. Turmeric is thus an interesting ingredient for combating skin thickening phenomena, which can particularly promote the obstruction of pores.

Lack of sleep, pollution, a deficient diet... these are all factors that can dull your complexion. To restore its radiance, rely on skincare treatments rich in antioxidants.

Our radiance mask with turmeric (INCI: Curcuma Longa Root Extract), lemon verbena hydrosol (INCI: Lippia Citriodora Leaf Water) and yellow clay (INCI: Kaolin) is an essential ally for restoring the radiance of your complexion. The synergy of these ingredients revitalises the epidermis and protects it from the effects of oxidative stress by neutralising free radicals.

Furthermore, this mask imparts a healthy glow and leaves the complexion even and radiant. It also has a purifying activity and leaves the skin softer and the skin texture more refined.

• SUDHEER A. & al. Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of curcumin. Advances in Experimental Medicine and Biology (2007).

• LEE S. J. & al. Aromatic-turmerone inhibits α-MSH and IBMX-induced melanogenesis by inactivating CREB and MITF signaling pathways. Archives of Dermatological Research (2011).

• CAO D. & al. Screening of active fractions from Curcuma Longa Radix isolated by HPLC and GC-MS for promotion of blood circulation and relief of pain. Journal of Ethnopharmacology (2019).

• RAHIMI R. & al. Promising plant-derived secondary metabolites for treatment of acne vulgaris: a mechanistic review. Archives of Dermatological Research (2020).