The 'Queen of spices' is a moniker often attributed to turmeric, and for good reason. The root tuber-based spice is an essential part of our kitchen and used extensively in Indian cooking. The warm and yellow spice imparts a beautiful golden-yellow hue and an earthy flavour to dishes.
Beyond cooking and recipes, mothers of India also use turmeric as a cure-all to any and all health predicaments such as a cough, cold or indigestion. A warm glass of haldi doodh, known to the West as ‘golden milk’, saves any day.
Beyond its spectrum of health benefits and nutrition, turmeric also has an amazing effect on the skin. Turmeric’s skin benefits come from its active compound called curcumin which is known for its antibacterial, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties.
Here are six expert-recommended DIY turmeric face masks you can make at home for an all-natural and all-round skincare routine:
1. Turmeric and sandalwood face mask
New Delhi-based Dr Blossom Kochhar, Chairperson, Blossom Kochhar Group of Companies says, “Turmeric helps in reducing acne breakouts because of its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. It helps restore the natural glow and treats uneven skin due to its skin lightening properties."
You can make a quick DIY face mask using one teaspoon of sandalwood powder, three pinches of turmeric powder and a dollop of yoghurt. Make a paste and apply it to your face. Wash it off after 20 minutes. Dr Kochhar says that using turmeric face masks regularly protects your skin cells from sun damage and also reduces water retention.
2. Turmeric and milk cream mask
Turmeric and milk cream makes a good combination to get rid of dark circles, suggests Dr Kochhar. This mask helps with pigmentation.
To make an under-eye mask, all you need to do is mix together a pinch of turmeric with just enough milk cream to make a thick paste. Apply it under your eyes. Rinse it with water after 5 minutes. When you repeat this routine regularly, your dark circles will begin to lighten with time.
3. Anti-acne turmeric mask
Mumbai-based Dr Apratim Goel, laser surgeon and cosmetic dermatologist, Cutis Skin Studio says, “Turmeric contains a high amount of manganese, iron, fibre, vitamin B6, vitamin C, and potassium. The antibacterial properties of turmeric aid in acne treatment, the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties reduce inflammation caused by acne. Turmeric also has natural oil-controlling properties, which help reduce acne breakouts."
To make a DIY anti-acne mask you can mix equal quantities of turmeric and honey. Apply this directly to the affected area. Leave it overnight and rinse with cool water. Follow this regime daily for noticeable results. Alternatively, mix half a teaspoon of turmeric with 2 teaspoons of sandalwood powder and some milk to form a paste. Apply it all over your face and leave it to dry. Wash it off with lukewarm water. Do this twice or thrice a week.
4. Anti-aging turmeric mask
You can even prevent wrinkles by incorporating turmeric into your skincare routine. Turmeric is rich in antioxidants that help protect your skin against free-radical damage, which slows down the signs of ageing such as dark spots, fine lines, and wrinkles.
To make your own DIY golden mask, mix a quarter tablespoon of organic turmeric powder in 1 tablespoon of plain yoghurt. Apply it and after 20 minutes, rinse it off with water. Repeat this treatment twice or thrice a week.
5. Turmeric and lemon face mask
The bleaching properties of turmeric can help treat skin pigmentation. To make your own mask, mix one teaspoon each of turmeric powder and freshly squeezed lemon juice. Apply the mixture to the affected area and leave it on for 20 minutes. Rinse it off with cold water and pat dry your skin.
Remember not to head out in the sun for at least an hour after using this treatment.
6. Turmeric foot mask
Cracked heels are a common problem. They are not only embarrassing but also very painful. The astringent properties of turmeric help heal cracked heels.
To make your foot mask, mix equal quantities of castor oil, coconut oil and add a pinch of ground turmeric to make a paste. Apply this paste to your cracked heels and leave it on for 15 minutes. Rinse the mask off with cool water.