Profile: Turmeric

Turmeric is truly magical. It is one of the most impressive spices in terms of medicinal benefits both when ingested and when applied topically. When taken internally (either in capsule form or sprinkled on food), turmeric has powerful anticancer properties. In fact, studies have shown that curcumin, a compound found in turmeric responsible for the spice's dark yellow color, may block cancer growth and decrease tumor size. (I said it was magical!) In addition, turmeric naturally detoxifies the liver. (When your liver is hampered with toxins, your skin appears puffy and congested.) My advice - find a way to sprinkle turmeric on everything you eat!

As if that wasn't enough, turmeric also has amazing benefits for the skin when applied topically. It has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties making it beneficial for acne prone skin and sensitive skin prone to redness and irritation. Turmeric also works as a brightening agent by treating dark spots and hyperpigmentation. (It also stimulates circulation making skin appear more even and less blotchy.) This inherent ability to make skin glow might be why Indian brides apply a mixture of chickpea flour, turmeric, and almond oil all over their face and bodies to exfoliate and brighten their skin on their wedding day. Oh and turmeric also provides antioxidant protection from free radicals intent on damaging your beautiful skin. Like I said, magical.

Here are a few of my favorite turmeric-containing skin care gems:

May Lindstrom Skin The Clean Dirt - I know that I go on and on about this product, but it is truly the best exfoliant I have ever used. The mixture of spices (including turmeric) and clays warm the skin, increase blood flow, and impart the kind of glow and radiance that shouldn't be possible at 6 a.m. Delicious. Indulgent. I will never be without it. (Turmeric is also a key player in The Problem Solver - a mask that deserves a ten-page review for its ability to transform acne prone, lackluster skin in a single application.)

La Bella Figura Bio Active Healing Mask - (In depth review here.) Turmeric's anti-inflammatory properties truly shine in this mask as it reduces redness and irritation almost on contact. Equally as impressive, it doesn't drip off of your face like most honey masks do. (The Bio Active Purifying Mask also contains turmeric likely because turmeric is killer for detoxifying the skin and reducing the bacteria responsible for acne.)

Dr. Alkaitis Organic Nourishing Treatment Oil - I highly recommend this herbal wonder oil for troubled skin. It calms, soothes, and hydrates. Plus, it's economical containing four whole ounces! I ended up using it all over my body as a treat from time to time.

RMS Beauty Oil - In addition to turmeric, this facial oil contains vitamin-rich skin saviors Tamanu and Buriti making it incredibly healing and nourishing. Because this oil was created by make-up artist extraordinaire, Rose-Marie Swift, expect it to not only leave skin glowing, but also to act as the perfect canvas for make-up application. A truly lovely facial oil.