21 Natural Ways To Use Turmeric For Skin Whitening

Last Updated: April 27, 2018

Have you ever wondered why our skin tone is different from one another? It’s because of the melanin presence in the epidermis (top layer) of the skin. The more melanin presence, the darker your skin tone gets.

Even if you have a lighter skin tone, due to external factors like sun exposure, pollution, hectic lifestyle, improper diet and others can trigger an increase in melanin production.

Most of the commercial skin care products are designed to reduce this melanin pigment in our skin to make it light and flawless. The worst part of using these skin care products is the harmful chemicals present it. Long term usage of them can lead to cancer and other serious problems.

But don’t worry – melanin can also be reduced using some simple natural home remedies and ingredients like turmeric, aloe vera, baking soda and papaya.

However, in this article let’s have a detailed look on how the golden spice turmeric will reduce melanin and lighten the skin.

What Makes Turmeric Effective in Skin Lightening?

Below are the six main reasons to embrace this ancient secret. We have mentioned them with scientific evidence on how turmeric helps to make your skin younger looking.

1. Reduces Melanin

Turmeric contains a very essential compound called curcumin. It helps to resolve the hyperpigmentation and melanin production. Melanin triggers include pituitary stress, sun exposure, skin damage, tumors, cushing syndrome, and others.

These conditions trigger a secretion of ACTH hormone by the pituitary gland. This hormone supports MC1R which is one of the main proteins which stimulates melanin production.

Curcumin helps to restrict the ACTH hormones and thus reduces hyperpigmentation and lightens the skin. (1, 2, 3)

2. Treats Oily Skin

If you have been suffering from oily skin since a long time, then turmeric is a magic potion for you. The fatty acids and phytosterols present in turmeric are effective in reducing the oil production in the skin.

As per a study conducted in 2012, individuals were given turmeric treatment for 2 weeks, the results has shown a significant decrease in the oil secretion. Over a period of 3 months turmeric application, oil production was reduced by 25%. (4)

3. Protects Against Sun Damage

Usually, the sun radiation increases the matrix metalloproteinase-2 which is an enzyme that degrades collagen between outer and middle layer of the skin. Turmeric is known to inhibit the increase of MMP-2 thus preventing the skin damage caused by the skin.

A recent study confirms the same how turmeric prevents the adverse effects of ultraviolet B radiation on the skin. (5)

4. Acts as Anti-Aging

The anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant properties present in turmeric can help to counteract skin aging. Two studies published in March 2010 by Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, the moisturizing creams containing turmeric has shown significant results in minimizing wrinkles, fine lines, changes in skin pigment and dark spots.

Many studies have also confirmed that chronic inflammation that leads to organ dysregulation and overabundance of free radicals was also reduced by turmeric. (6, 7)

5. Treats Acne

Curcumin is also known to have antibacterial properties which can deal with P. acne bacteria. A study conducted to know the same has confirmed that curcumin is 36 times stronger than azelic acid in treating acne bacteria. (8)

6. Chronic Skin Conditions

The curcumin of turmeric has been quite effective in reducing the symptoms of chronic skin conditions like eczema, psoriasis, roscea and others. Though these conditions are different from one another, they share a common problem which is inflammation.

Having anti-inflammatory properties, curcumin restricts NF-κB, which is involved in cellular responses to UV radiation, cytokines, free radicals and stress. An excess NF-κB can lead to inflammatory and auto-immune diseases like viral infections, cancer and other conditions mentioned above. (9, 10, 11)

How to Use Turmeric for Skin Whitening?

Can’t wait to avail all the benefits of turmeric to achieve younger and flawless looking skin? Here are the best ways to incorporate turmeric into your daily skin care regimen.

Quick Tip: As turmeric stains, it is better to not to get it on the clothes or anywhere else. Make sure to wear old clothes and use an old towel to dry your face after trying the treatment.

1. Turmeric and Lemon

The skin bleaching (lightening) properties of lemon will lighten the skin. This skin lightening mask is perfect for treating anti-aging and oily skin apart from lightening the skin.

Process 1:

• Mix 2 tablespoons lemon juice and 1 teaspoon turmeric.
• Apply an even layer over the skin and leave it on for 20 minutes.
• Rinse it off with water by gently scrubbing in circular motions.
• Use this process weekly twice before going to bed.

Note: You can also use kasturi manjal powder (wild turmeric) instead of turmeric powder and follow the process as mentioned.

Process 2: with Corn Flour and Baking Soda

• Mix 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice, 1 tablespoon corn flour, 1 teaspoon each of turmeric and baking soda.
• Stir well and apply this mixture over the dark skin.
• Let it rest for 20 – 30 minutes and wash with cool water.
• Pat dry and apply moisturizer of your choice.
• Follow this process 2 – 3 times a week.

2. Turmeric and Milk

The amazing cleansing properties of milk remove the dead skin cells, dirt and other impurities from the skin. The combination of turmeric and milk makes an amazing treatment for acne, acne scars and hyper pigmentation.

• Combine 1/2 teaspoon of turmeric and 1 teaspoon of milk.
• Using fingers or facial brush, apply an even layer on the skin.
• Let it rest for an hour and rinse it off with water.
• If your skin is still stained with yellow, dip a cotton ball in milk and gently rub over the skin for few minutes and later rinse off.
• Repeat this process 3 times in a week to notice the results.

Note: You can use rosewater or milk powder instead of milk.

3. Turmeric and Oil

This combination is perfect for people with dry, flaky and itchy skin. You can use coconut oil, castor oil or almond oil for this process.

• Mix 1 tablespoon turmeric and any oil of your choice.
• Apply this paste over the skin and gently massage for few minutes.
• Leave it on for 30 minutes.
• Wash it off with lukewarm water followed by cold water.
• Continue using this process 3 times in a week.

4. Turmeric and Honey

Honey helps to lock moisture in the skin cells, soothes sun burns and treats acne. This combination is perfect for people with normal and combination skin.

• Combine 2 teaspoons of honey with 1/4 teaspoon turmeric.
• Apply an even layer over the skin.
• Leave it on for 30 minutes and rinse it off with lukewarm water.
• Repeat the process 3 times in a week.

Note: You can also add 1 teaspoon milk or yogurt/ cucumber juice/ aloe vera to the mixture for more effectiveness.

5. Turmeric, Avocado and Yogurt

The lactic acid present in yogurt helps to lighten the skin. Avocado helps to moisturize and nourish the skin. This combination is perfect for all skin types.

• Mash 1/4 avocado pulp to make a smooth paste.
• Add 1 teaspoon each of turmeric and yogurt into it and mix well.
• Apply this paste over the skin and let it dry for 15 minutes.
• Rinse it off with lukewarm water followed by cold water.
• Repeat this process 3 times in a week.

6. Turmeric and Gram Flour (Besan)

This combination makes an excellent scrub in which gram flour cleanses the skin, yogurt moisturizes and turmeric provides glow to the skin.

• Mix 2 tablespoons of gram flour and 1/2 teaspoon of turmeric and enough amounts of yogurt to make a smooth paste.
• Stir well and apply this mixture over the skin.
• Gently scrub the mixture over the skin for few minutes.
• Let it rest for 30 minutes and rinse it off with water.
• Repeating regularly for 2 – 3 times in a week will provide radiant skin.

Note: You can also use water instead of yogurt.

7. Turmeric and Cucumber

The astringent properties of cucumber slow down the aging process. This combination is excellent for sensitive skin.

• Mix 2 teaspoons of cucumber juice and 1/4 teaspoon of turmeric powder.
• Apply an even coat over the skin and gently massage for 5 minutes.
• Leave it on for 1 hour and rinse it off with lukewarm water.
• Continue this process 3 times in a week.

8. Turmeric and Rice Powder

Rice powder has an amazing exfoliating property which helps to remove dead skin cells, dirt and other impurities on the skin. This combination is excellent for people with oily and combination skin.

• Mix 2 tablespoons rice powder, 1/2 teaspoon turmeric and enough amounts of water.
• Apply this paste over the skin and leave it on for 10 minutes.
• Wash it off with water and pat the skin dry.
• Repeat the process 3 times in a week.

For more effectiveness: Instead of water you can either add milk cream and honey or olive oil and yogurt.

9. Turmeric and Sandalwood Powder

Sandalwood is an excellent ingredient which absorbs oil from the skin pores. This combination is effective for people with oily and combination skin.

• Make a paste by combining 1/2 teaspoon turmeric, 1 tablespoon sandalwood powder and rose water.
• Apply this paste over the skin and leave it to dry.
• Wash it off with lukewarm water followed by cold water.
• Continue this process 3 times in a week.

Note: You can add lemon juice or raw milk instead of rosewater.

10. Turmeric and Orange Peels

Orange peel is magic potion for skin care as it helps to cure acne, pigmentation, blackheads and blemishes.

• Peel skin of orange, dry them under sun until crisp and blend them into a fine powder.
• Combine 2 tablespoons orange peel powder, 1 teaspoon turmeric and water to make a fine paste.
• Apply this paste over the skin and leave it on for 20 minutes.
• Rinse it off with lukewarm water followed by cold water.
• Follow this process 3 times a week to whiten your skin.

Note: For better results, add 1 tablespoon honey to the mixture.

11. Turmeric with Strawberries and Corn Starch

The gritty nature of strawberries exfoliates the dead skin cells, oil, dirt and other impurities on the skin. This combination makes an excellent scrub-cum-pack which is perfect for oily and acne prone skin.

• Mash 3 strawberries into a smooth paste.
• Add 1 teaspoon each of corn starch and turmeric.
• Stir well and apply this mixture over the skin and leave it on for 15 minutes.
• Rinse it off with cold water and pat dry.
• If followed regularly for 3 times in a week desired results can be achieved.

12. Turmeric, Chirongi and Saffron

The active carotenoids present in saffron contain antioxidant and antinociceptive properties which help to maintain the skin at optimum health and appear young.

• Blend 1 tablespoon chirongi seeds powder, 1/2 teaspoon turmeric and few strands of saffron.
• Add rose water or milk to it and make a fine paste.
• Apply this mixture over the skin and leave it on for 10 minutes.
• Wash it off with water and pat the skin dry.
• Follow this process regularly for desired results.

13. Turmeric and Neem

The anti-bacterial properties of neem deal with bacteria and allergens. Turmeric reduces acne scars and lightens the skin.

• Blend few neem leaves to make a fine paste.
• Add 1/2 teaspoon turmeric to the paste and mix well.
• Apply this mixture over the skin and leave it for 20 minutes.
• Rinse it off with water and pat the skin dry.
• On continuous usage, you will achieve desired results.

14. Turmeric and Butter Milk

The lactic acid present in butter milk lightens the skin while turmeric removes excess oil and reduces acne scars.

• Into 2 tablespoons of butter milk add a pinch of turmeric and mix well.
• Using fingers apply this mix over the skin.
• Leave it on for 20 minutes or till it completely dries.
• Wash with lukewarm water followed by cold water.
• Repeat the process 3 times in a week.

15. Turmeric and Banana

Banana is rich in phytochemicals and antioxidants which help to heal the rough and aging skin. This method is perfect for sensitive and acne prone skin.

• Mash 1/2 banana to a smooth paste.
• Add 1/2 teaspoon turmeric and stir well.
• Apply this paste over the skin and leave it for 30 minutes.
• Wash it off with water and pat dry.
• Continue using this process daily 3 times a week.

16. Turmeric, Tomato and Coconut Oil

Vitamin B present in tomato helps to reduce wrinkles and encourage production of healthy new cells. Coconut oil moisturizes and nourishes the skin. This combination is perfect for dry and itchy skin.

• Mix equal quantities of tomato pulp, coconut oil and turmeric.
• Using fingers gently massage this mixture over the skin for 10 minutes.
• Let it rest for 15 minutes.
• Rinse it off with lukewarm water followed by cold water.
• Use this process daily before going to bed.

17. Turmeric and Oatmeal

The saponin present in oatmeal exfoliates the impurities, dirt, toxins and dead skin cells from the skin. Apart from that it also moisturizes the skin.

• Grind oatmeal into fine powder.
• Combine 1 tablespoon oatmeal powder, 1 teaspoon turmeric and enough amounts of water to make a thick paste.
• Apply this paste over the skin and let it sit for 10 – 15 minutes.
• Rinse it off with water.
• Use this pack 2 times in a week to get rid of uneven skin tone.

Note: You can also add milk or lemon juice instead of water.

18. Turmeric and Potato

Catecholase enzyme present in potato helps to reduce dark spots, blemishes and acne scars. Potassium present in potato also hydrates and moisturizes the skin.

• Grate 1 potato and extract juice from it.
• Mix extracted potato juice and a pinch of turmeric.
• Apply this mixture over the skin and let it dry for few minutes.
• Wash it off with lukewarm water.
• Follow this process 2 times a week to achieve desired results.

19. Turmeric, Egg White and Red Sandal Powder

If followed regularly, this combination will surely lighten and brighten up your skin within 2 weeks.

• Mix 1 egg white, 1 teaspoon almond oil, 2 tablespoons lemon juice, 1/2 teaspoon each of turmeric and red sandal powder.
• Combine all the ingredients well to make thick paste.
• Apply this paste over the skin and let it rest for 15 minutes.
• Wash it off with lukewarm water followed by cold water.
• Follow this process 3 times in a week.

20. Turmeric Tea

Turmeric tea is a natural detoxifier and it purifies blood and gives you a radiant and glowing skin.

• Add 1/2 inch turmeric root into 250 ml of milk.
• Boil milk for 15 – 20 minutes.
• Strain it and enjoy drinking while warm.
• Repeat the process 3 times a week.

Note: For preferred benefits, add ginger powder and honey. Or you can also add cinnamon powder as well.

21. Homemade Turmeric Soap

Chemicals present in commercial soaps can be harmful to the skin. Some chemicals can even dry out or damage the skin texture. By following the below process, you can make a soap at home…

• Melt few cubes of melt and pour soap base using double boiler.
• After soap base melts completely, turn off the heat.
• Add 1 teaspoon turmeric and stir well.
• Pour the soap base mixture in moulds and leave it for 2 hours.
• Use this soap daily instead of chemical based soaps.

Note: you can also add green tea or coconut oil or olive oil to the mixture for better results.

Turmeric Supplements for Skin Whitening:

Apart from applying turmeric to the skin, consumption of it has also proved to be effective for only skin but also to health. Consumption of turmeric has become very popular now-a-days and it also available in capsules/tablets form. They can be taken to lighten the skin and also avail the health benefits.

While buying turmeric capsules, make sure to check for the curcumin content. Most of the supplements contain less curcumin content. These tablets may not be effective in providing the results.

Recommended

• Gaia Herbs Turmeric Supreme Phyto-Capsules
• Made in UTAH Turmeric Capsules

Note: Turmeric is poorly absorbed by our body which is the reason why it has to be taken with black pepper, pineapple extract or fat. These ingredients make sure it is not detoxified immediately and let it stay in the blood for a longer period of time.

FAQ’s

1. What is the Right Dosage of Turmeric for Skin Whitening?

The recommended dosage of turmeric is 0.5 grams to 8 grams per day is completely safe without any side effects.

2. How Long does it Take for Turmeric to Lighten Skin?

It depends on the lifestyle, skin texture, food habits and others. So, we recommend repeating the process regularly until you achieve the results. Apart from that reduce stress levels, reduce sun exposure, eat healthy foods and drink plenty of water for quick results.

3. Which Turmeric is good for Skin Whitening?

Organic turmeric is perfect for skin whitening. Make sure to check the ingredients list before purchasing because some of them can contains preservatives and other chemical substances along with turmeric. Kasturi manjal or wild turmeric can be used for more effective results.

4. Is Turmeric Good for Underarm Whitening?

Turmeric is one of the traditional methods to whiten the skin including the underarms. The curcumin present in turmeric helps to lighten the underarms just like any other part of the skin. So, apply any turmeric mask mentioned above and repeat the method regularly. Apart from turmeric application, you have to exfoliate and moisturize the underarms regularly for effective results.

Tips and Precautions to Remember

• Turmeric is a natural dye, so it stains clothes, finger or anything that comes in contact with it. So, you can use gloves while applying the mixture.
• Wear an old t-shirt while applying any method using turmeric.
• While mixing the ingredients it is better to use steel, ceramic or porcelain vessels as turmeric stains can be easily washed off.
• Limit the dosage of turmeric if you are consuming it internally.
• Pregnant or breastfeeding women should consult gynecologist before consuming turmeric.
• After washing any pack mentioned above, if you have a yellow residue on the skin, dip a cotton ball and rub it over the skin to remove the turmeric residue.
• Avoid using turmeric if you are allergic to it.
• Always perform a test on arm to observe if you are allergic to any ingredients.
• Use sun screen lotion before going out in the sun.
• Stop using skin care products with harsh chemicals like paraben and others.

Now, you might be excited to start using turmeric after knowing its benefits for skin whitening. But make sure to follow it regularly with some patience for availing the benefits.

If you have any queries or concerns then write to us in the comment section below. We will answer them as soon as possible. And don’t forget to share your experience with us.

Rajee Datti

Hi everyone, this is Rajee!

I live the beautiful city of Baltimore, where my husband works.

I’m from India. I have been visiting India on and off for past few years and my mom was an inspiration for me to start this site. She has a wealth of knowledge on home remedies for a large number of health problems, and we grew up in an environment where frequent visits to the doctor just wasn’t logistically or financially feasible.

Despite this, she managed to raise a family of healthy kids, and my goal here at Home Remedies for Life is to pass on some of her knowledge of natural remedies.