Turmeric shows promise for helping manage certain skin conditions, including dryness and psoriasis. You can use it as an ingredient in homemade face masks.

Turmeric (Curcuma longa) is a plant native to Asia and has been used in herbal medicine since ancient times. While often used in cooking, you can also find this spice in dietary supplements.

People use turmeric in both natural and conventional alternative skin care products. Some people also use it in homemade face masks to help address certain skin concerns.

Read on to learn more about this homemade mask and how to make your own. We’ll also examine the benefits and potential risks so you can decide whether a turmeric mask ought to be a staple in your skin care routine.

Turmeric contains compounds that may reduce swelling (inflammation) and irritation on the skin. Inflammation and irritation can worsen other skin conditions, so using turmeric in a face mask may help soothe the skin. However, more research is still needed.

A 2024 review of research suggests turmeric may show promise for certain skin conditions based on test tube and animal studies. Skin conditions include:

  • psoriasis
  • scleroderma
  • atopic dermatitis
  • wound healing
  • skin infections
  • wrinkles

However, the authors note that turmeric is poorly absorbed into the skin. Researchers are still examining how to increase its absorption. Some of it’s potential benefits on the skin include:

Reduced inflammation

Curcuminoids, the active compounds in turmeric, have anti-inflammatory properties. These properties may also have the potential to reduce skin damage from the sun, according to a 2019 review of research.

Turmeric may possibly reduce inflammation related to skin diseases, such as psoriasis. However, more research is needed to determine whether applying it on the skin can benefit other skin issues, such as acne.

Antibacterial properties

Turmeric may also prevent certain bacteria in the skin that can otherwise contribute to acne cysts and staph infections.

Test tube studies suggest it may help block the growth of bacteria. However, this is based on test tube studies and more research is needed to determine if turmeric can have a similar effect on the skin.

Antioxidant benefits

Turmeric is rich in antioxidants. When it comes to skin care, antioxidants can help keep free radicals from destroying healthy cells. This may prevent the onset of skin conditions that develop due to free radicals, such as:

  • hyperpigmentation
  • scars
  • other long-term skin concerns, such as skin cancer

According to the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH, turmeric may be safe when applied to the skin, but more research is needed

Oral supplements may cause gastrointestinal side effects, such as upset stomach and cramps, especially if you take a high dose. But, they are also generally considered safe when consumed in the recommended amounts from a reputable brand.

Still, it’s always a good idea to do a patch test before using any new ingredient on your skin. Even plant-based products like turmeric can cause skin reactions in some users. To do a patch test, you’ll want to make your turmeric mask ahead of time and then apply a small amount to your arm before using it on your face:

  • Wait at least a day, and if no reactions develop, it’s likely safe for you to apply the turmeric mask on your face.
  • Don’t use the mask if any discoloration, swelling, or itchiness develops on your patch test.

Turmeric is often used as a dye and can potentially stain clothing.

If you decide to make a turmeric face mask, you may need to combine turmeric powder or extract with a thickening agent to make a paste. Some of the ingredients may vary based on skin concerns:

  • For acne and antibacterial effects: You may want to combine turmeric with warm water and honey.
  • For hyperpigmentation and wrinkles: You may want to combine turmeric with yogurt and lemon juice for nourishment and brightening.
  • For sunburn: You may want to mix turmeric extract with aloe vera gel for natural soothing effects.

More research is still needed to determine whether turmeric face masks benefit these skin concerns. But it is likely safe to try making a turmeric face mask as long as you perform a patch test first.

Then, leave the mask on for about 10 minutes at a time. Rinse thoroughly with warm water and follow up the rest of your skin care routine.

Avoid leaving turmeric-containing face masks on overnight, as turmeric has the potential to stain fabrics and skin. If you have some skin staining from this yellow spice, you can try washing it with milk.

You can make a homemade turmeric face mask with common household ingredients.

Turmeric has antioxidant, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory properties.

While more research is needed to determine the effectiveness of applying turmeric to the skin, there may be some potential benefits.