Turmeric Face Scrub Recipe

by: Linda Robison / Facial Fitness Specialist @ ABZ

Looking for a natural glow-up? Let’s dive into one of my all-time favorite DIY beauty treatments: Turmeric Face Scrub Recipes.

Turmeric isn’t just a kitchen staple. As a former health advisor, I know firsthand how this spice is a powerhouse for your skincare routine. Here’s how this golden powder can brighten your complexion.

Turmeric face scrub recipe.

Turmeric face scrub recipe

Why Turmeric? This gorgeous, inexpensive yellow spice is packed with curcumin, known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. It can help reduce inflammation, lighten dark spots, provide a healthy glow, and soften the look of wrinkles. 

In this guide, I'll show you how to make easy face scrub recipes for all skin types and share the best type of turmeric to use in face scrub recipes.

Three face treatments for dry or damaged skin

If you have dry or damaged skin, hydration is key. Below are three powerful turmeric-based treatments designed to deeply moisturize and restore your complexion.

1. My go-to turmeric face scrub sugar recipe

Turmeric brightening scrub recipe for dark spots

For flaky, dry complexion, this simple scrub comes together quickly. And can be customized based on your complexion type.

Here’s what you’ll need:

Ingredients:

  • 2 tablespoons sugar (white or brown)
  • 4 tablespoons coconut oil (or oil of your choice)
  • 1/2 to 1 teaspoon of turmeric powder. *

*Note: What kind of turmeric should I use on my face? That depends. You can open a capsule or use it from your spice rack. But, make sure it's free of additives or preservatives, which can irritate the skin. Check this out before you try the recipe.

Optional: a few drops of essential oil (like lavender or tea tree oil).

How to Make It:

1. Mix the Ingredients: Combine everything and mix until you get a thick paste. If you want to add essential oil, just a few drops will do. If your complexion is sensitive, use less sugar and more oil.

2. Application: Gently massage in circular motions. Be careful around the eyes. The sugar will exfoliate, while the turmeric and coconut oil will nourish and brighten.

3. Rinse Off: Lightly scrub for a few minutes, rinse with warm water and pat dry with a clean towel. Follow up with an all natural face moisturizer.

2. Turmeric face scrub for extra dry skin

If you have a extra dry or wrinkled complexion, you need a mask/scrub that provides intense hydration.

Ingredients:

  • 2 tablespoons brown, raw or turbinado sugar. These are gentler and retain more of the natural molasses, giving them a softer texture. See other types of sugar you can use here.
  • 4 tablespoons olive oil or avocado oil (rich in moisturizing properties)
  • 1 tablespoon honey (for extra hydration)
  • 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder

How to Make It:

1. Mix the Ingredients: Honey can get sticky. So it's best to combine the dry ingredients first. Then add the honey and then oil. Mix to form a paste.

2. Application: Apply the scrub in gentle circular motions. Focus on areas that are particularly dry or wrinkled.

3. Rinse Off: After a few minutes, rinse with lukewarm water (you might need a wash cloth) and pat dry. Apply a hydrating moisturizer to seal in the moisture.

Woman massaging a with turmeric scrub on her face.

Note: For sensitive or dehydrated skin, this a mask can help provide deep hydration. Dryness can highlight fine lines, especially under the eyes. Be careful when applying masks to this delicate area. For tips on reducing these lines, see our tips on reducing criss-cross lines under the eyes.

3. Hydrating turmeric face mask

If your skin is super sensitive or damaged, then skip the scrub and try this soothing gentle mask instead. Here’s a simple turmeric face mask recipe that you can easily make at home:

Ingredients:

  • 2 tablespoons plain yogurt or milk (for a thicker consistency and soothing effect)
  • 1 tablespoon honey (to lock in moisture)
  • 1/2 to 1 teaspoon turmeric powder

Instructions:

  1. Mix the Ingredients: Mix the turmeric powder, yogurt (or milk), first. Then add honey.
  2. Application: Apply the mask evenly, avoiding the eye area. You can use a brush or your fingers.
  3. Let it Sit: Leave the mask on for about 10-15 minutes. You might feel a slight tingling sensation, which is normal.
  4. Rinse Off: Rinse with lukewarm water and pat dry. Moisturize afterward.

Oily complexion scrub recipe

Homemade facial scrub made with yogurt, turmeric, and lemon for oily skin.

For oily skin, you need a scrub that helps control excess oil and reduces breakouts. Here’s a turmeric scrub recipe ideal for your type:

Ingredients:

  • 2 tablespoons sugar (white or brown)
  • 2 tablespoons yogurt (to balance oil production)
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice (for its astringent properties)
  •  1/2 to 1 teaspoon turmeric powder

How to Make It:

1. Mix the Ingredients: Combine the dry ingredients first.  Then add yogurt and lemon juice. Mix into a smooth paste. 

2. Application: Gently massage, focusing on oily areas like the T-zone (forehead, nose, and chin).

3. Rinse Off: After a few minutes, rinse with cool water and pat dry. Follow up with a light, oil-free moisturizer.

My experience with turmeric

Turmeric face mask DIY mixed in a brown bowl.

I remember the first time I tried a turmeric scrub and mask. I was skeptical about the yellow stain everyone warned me about.

To my surprise, my skin felt incredibly smooth and looked brighter after just one use.

A little tip from my experience: Use an old wash cloth and towel to dry to avoid any staining.

What kind of turmeric should I use on my face?

Turmeric powder in a bowl – a natural skincare ingredient for brightening, hydration, and reducing dark spots.

Here is a pro tip:

When it comes to facial scrubs, masks, and other skincare applications, it's best to use organic, pure turmeric powder. I found that McCormick Ground Turmeric is 100% and does not contain additives.

Some brands sneak in anti-caking agents or other additives to keep their turmeric fresh and free-flowing. So, always check the ingredient!

Watch out for:

1. Silicon Dioxide: Keeps the powder from clumping.
2. Starch: Sometimes used as a filler.
3. Artificial Colors or Preservatives: Enhances color and shelf life.

Sensitive Issues?

If so, then opt for ones specifically labeled for cosmetic use. This type is often more finely ground and less likely to stain your skin.

Another great option is to use wild turmeric (also known as Kasturi turmeric), which is less likely to cause yellow stains on the skin and is commonly used in beauty treatments.

More about turmeric: Soaps and washes

Turmeric is a superstar ingredient in the skincare world, and its benefits extend beyond scrubs and masks.

They can significantly enhance your skin's health and appearance, especially for those dealing with dark spots or uneven skin tone.

Turmeric soap bars

Turmeric soap bars are an excellent way to introduce this golden spice into your daily skincare regimen. These bars not only cleanse the skin but also provide anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits.

When used regularly, turmeric soap can help brighten your complexion, reduce redness, and leave your skin feeling refreshed.

Look for soap bars that contain pure turmeric and natural ingredients to maximize their benefits while minimizing potential irritants. 

Note: Some great options to check out include:

These products are formulated to enhance your complexion and are perfect for daily use.

Turmeric face wash for dark spots

If you're looking for something gentle for dry skin that effectively removes makeup and is suitable for everyday use, consider a turmeric face wash designed to address dark spots.

This turmeric face wash combines turmeric with other beneficial ingredients, such as glycolic acid or vitamin C, to target pigmentation issues while gently exfoliating the skin.

Regular use can help fade dark spots and promote a more even skin tone, giving you that sought-after radiant glow.

Research: Benefits of turmeric for beautiful skin

Turmeric has been used in skincare for centuries, and modern research is beginning to back up its benefits.

Curcumin, the active compound in turmeric, has been shown to help with hyperpigmentation, inflammation, and overall skin health.

Key Findings:

  • Brightens Skin: Studies indicate curcumin can reduce melanin production, which may help fade dark spots and even out skin tone.
  • Anti-Inflammatory Benefits: Research supports turmeric's ability to soothe redness and irritation, making it beneficial for sensitive and acne-prone skin.
  • Antioxidant Protection: Turmeric is rich in antioxidants that help fight free radical damage, reducing the risk of premature aging.
  • Acne Treatment: Due to its antibacterial properties, turmeric has been found to help reduce acne and prevent future breakouts.

On Going Research:

Some studies suggest that curcumin could slow down melanin-producing proteins, making it a potential natural remedy for brown spots and hyperpigmentation.

However, researchers noted that more studies are needed to confirm its long-term effects on conditions such as melasma and melanoma.

Possible side effects

Turmeric is generally safe, but it can be slightly drying if used too frequently, especially without a hydrating ingredient like honey or oil.

To avoid irritation, always do a patch test, and use these treatments 1-2 times a week for the best balance of exfoliation and nourishment.

Takeaway

Turmeric is a great natural remedy for a glowing complexion. Whether you’re using a face scrub, a mask, or even soap bars and washes, you can enjoy benefits like brighter skin, reduced acne, and a more even tone.

My turmeric and sugar face scrub are fantastic for exfoliating, while a turmeric face mask gives your skin some nourishing love.

If you’d rather not make your own, there are plenty of good turmeric-infused soaps and washes that can help brighten your skin and target dark spots.

With different scrubs for all skin types, there’s a way for everyone to enjoy turmeric's benefits. So, why not give these recipes a try and see how they can help you achieve that natural glow?

Happy scrubbing and masking!

You might like these

About the Author:
Linda Robison is a Facial Fitness Specialist and the founder of Anti-Aging Beauty Zone. She shares expert insights on skincare, facial rejuvenation, and beauty treatments—blending traditional wisdom, personal experience, and science-backed research for both at-home and in-office solutions.

Before you go ....

Please tap on the💙in the bottom right corner if you found this page helpful. Also, Let’s CONNECT! Click the buttons below to follow me on social media.

Thanks so much!