The main forms are facial wipes and soap bars. The reason for the hype? It's said to brighten the skin, reduce hyperpigmentation and redness, and even out the overall skin tone. What effects these two ingredients have on the skin and whether the trend is worth it or not, you can read in this blog.
Why is turmeric good for the skin?
Turmeric originates from the root of the Curcuma longa plant. This root has many positive properties for our skin. For example, it contains anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. The active compound in turmeric, curcumin, helps reduce inflammation and redness, making it useful for relieving skin irritations and acne. Not only does turmeric reduce these ailments, but it also helps prevent future skin problems by neutralizing molecules that can cause skin aging and damage. Although it has been scientifically proven that turmeric contains effective substances for the skin, insufficient research has been done on its application in skincare. The skin absorbs it with difficulty, and a solution for this still needs to be found. For now, it seems to be most effective when ingested or when the skin is washed with it.
What is the effect of kojic acid?
Kojic acid comes from Aspergillus oryzae, a Japanese mushroom, whose action perfectly complements the properties of turmeric. Kojic acid influences the enzyme tyrosinase, which inhibits melanin production to prevent overproduction. This makes it a suitable treatment for hyperpigmentation and age spots.
What to look out for with kojic acid
As with many cosmetic products, kojic acid also has a few aspects to consider during use. It's important to be aware that melanin production is inhibited, which also reduces natural sun protection. Therefore, always protect yourself with a good SPF. A few other points to keep in mind are:
- First test the product on a small patch of skin to ensure no allergic reaction occurs;
- First check if kojic acid can be combined with your other skincare products;
- Do not use kojic acid after a peel, as the skin will be too sensitive for it;
- At too high a concentration of kojic acid, the skin may flake or become irritated; in the Netherlands, the permitted amount is 1%.
Are turmeric and kojic acid overhyped?
That turmeric and kojic acid have a positive effect on the skin has been proven in various international studies. However, the hype is about a soap bar and cotton pads. For kojic acid, this is not the most effective way of use; it is best administered via a mask, serum, or cream. Turmeric offers the most benefits when ingested, so that (among other things) the skin improves from within. With the soap and cotton pads, you might be removing the top layer of skin, making the skin appear brighter, similar to the effect of a peel. This certainly has a nice effect but can also be achieved with other ingredients/products.
Furthermore, it is important to consider that home testing of these types of ingredients carries risks. For example, your skin can become irritated with incorrect use or too high a dosage. If you want a safe and effective treatment, choose an experienced skin therapist. They can provide personalized advice based on your skin concerns. At The Body Clinic, you've come to the right place for this.
Are you interested in a personalized treatment plan from our skin therapist? Take a look at our treatments or book a free consultation. The Body Clinic is ready for all your questions.
Sources Turmeric: the golden spice of lifeReview on the use of Kojic Acid - a skin lightening ingrediënt
With over 8 years of experience in skin care, Marla began her career as a beautician. She quickly discovered that her interest lay primarily in the medical and cosmetic aspects of the profession, after which she pursued this direction. The complexity of skin problems intrigued her: not only the visible complaints, but also the underlying causes and factors that can trigger them. This curiosity grew into a passion for targeted skin improvement. **Accurate and Goal-Oriented** In practice, Marla specializes in various laser treatments, drawing up effective treatment plans, and various skin-improving treatments. She works with great precision and is a perfectionist, which is essential in this field. Marla provides honest and realistic advice and takes ample time to examine possible triggers of skin problems with her clients, so that the skin can be addressed both externally and internally. _"When someone leaves with more self-confidence and a smile, it makes this profession incredibly rewarding and valuable to me."_
