Turmeric and Honey: A Powerful Anti-Acne And Skin-Hydrating Combination!

Turmeric and honey are two natural ingredients that have been used for centuries, particularly in Ayurvedic medicine, to improve the appearance of skin. 

Ayurveda is an ancient Indian system of medicine that has been around for over 3,000 years. This holistic system focuses on restoring balance in the body through diet, lifestyle, and herbal remedies. One of the most popular ingredients used in ayurvedic medicine is turmeric. It can help reduce inflammation in the body, which can lead to relief from conditions such as acne and dry skin. Honey is another popular ingredient in ayurveda. It has antimicrobial properties that can help fight bacteria and fungus, making it a great choice for treating skin infections. 

In this article, we will explore the benefits of using a turmeric and honey face mask to help improve the appearance of skin. The mask may help to decrease the appearance of pores, reduce inflammation, and promote better circulation.

What do honey and turmeric have in common that makes them so beneficial?

One key similarity is their antioxidant properties. Both turmeric and honey are able to scavenge free radicals, which can damage cells and contribute to the signs of aging. Additionally, both ingredients are anti-inflammatory, which can help to calm inflamed skin.

Another benefit of using turmeric and honey together is that they create a natural moisturizer. Honey is a natural humectant, meaning it draws moisture from the air into the skin. Turmeric contains curcumin, which has been shown to be an effective moisturizer by helping to improve blood circulation. This can help to keep the skin healthy and hydrated. 

When used together, these ingredients can help keep the skin hydrated and healthy looking, leaving you with a healthy glow.

Although turmeric has been shown to aid in the healing process of acne and other inflammation, it doesn’t necessarily solve the problem of these issues, it only helps manage it. If you find that the mask does nothing for you, it is within your best interest to consult a doctor to see if there’s another reason for inflamed or dry skin.

The recipe

As we become more and more aware of the products we are putting in and on our bodies and the many nasty chemicals that are in most beauty products being sold, it is important to know that sometimes the simpler and cheaper options are better for us. This mask provides a great, natural alternative that you can make in the comfort of your own home with ingredients that you most likely have too.

This mask is super simple to make and the base ingredients are honey and turmeric. You can play around with other ingredients, such as lemons or rose water. But those are extras, and not entirely necessary.

All you need is 1 teaspoon of turmeric and 2 teaspoons of honey. If you think you need a little bit more coverage, you can add a teaspoon of warm water to the mixture too, but don’t be fooled by a small amount of just the turmeric and honey. The honey melts and softens as it sits on your skin which will make the mixture go further. Apply using the back of a spoon, a small (clean) makeup brush or your fingers. Leave the mask on for about 5 minutes and then rinse off with warm water.

Alternatively, if you find that you have one lonesome pimple on your face, you can also add a small amount of the mixture to that area. Turmeric helps to keep bacteria from spreading and reduces the redness and swelling of the pimple and surrounding area.

Can I apply turmeric and honey on my face everyday?

Although curcumin is an anti-inflammatory it isn’t advisable to apply this mixture to your entire face everyday. Turmeric acts as an exfoliant, and if you have problematic, or acne prone skin, it may leave your skin feeling irritated and may actually cause more inflammation, rather than helping. 

That being said, you can definitely use the turmeric face mask two to three times a week.

Before applying the mixture to your face, be sure to wash your skin with a simple, non-exfoliating cleanser. Once you’ve washed off the mask apply a moisturize in order to lock in the moisture.

Turmeric does leave a slight stain on your face, which can be especially visible with lighter complexions. For this reason we suggest leaving the face mask on for no longer than 5 minutes.

If you accidentally leave it on longer, or find that your face is very yellow, try washing your face with milk. If that doesn’t work, don’t stress! Turmeric acts as a stain, rather than a dye, meaning it will disappear naturally and you won’t be left with a yellow face for days on end.

How long does turmeric and honey take to work?

The process of healing, especially with natural ingredients, differs from person to person.

Our bodies all heal differently, and the severity of your acne or dry skin will also play a role in the healing. 

But, you should notice that after just one face mask, your skin will feel softer. 

Remember, healing takes time and it isn’t something that can be rushed. Be kind to your skin.

If you are dealing with acne-prone skin, it is usually recommended to avoid consuming too much dairy. Although there are no scientific studies to back this up (yet!), it has proven to be true for many people. 

Another important note is to make sure you hydrate your skin every day. In the past we have believed that adding moisture to oily skin is the worst possible move, but in more recent years we have found that using a gentle moisturizer on acne is the way to go. 

Lastly, remember to drink plenty of water! 

Written by Caryn Mackenzie on behalf of Turmeric Zone