Turmeric soap is gaining popularity for its natural skincare benefits, promising glowing, healthy skin. While the trend is exciting, the benefits of turmeric soap might not go as deep as you think. Let’s explore how turmeric soap works, its limitations, and why Curcumin supplements could be a more powerful solution for your overall health.

Why is turmeric soap popular? 

Turmeric, the key ingredient in turmeric soap, contains curcumin, a compound known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.¹ Curcumin inhibits melanin production, which reduces hyperpigmentation and dark spots.² It also has antibacterial qualities, making it a potential remedy for acne caused by bacteria.³

Many turmeric soaps also include other beneficial ingredients like coconut oil and shea butter for hydration, lemon oil for brightening, and kojic acid for skin-lightening effects. Some formulations also add neem and Cassia tora to help address fungal skin infections.⁴ These ingredients enhance the effectiveness of turmeric soap, making it a popular choice in natural skincare products.

Alright, so turmeric soap is great for skin, but what’s the catch?

While turmeric soap can provide some surface-level benefits, it’s important to understand its limitations. 

First, turmeric soap primarily works on the outer layers of the skin. Curcumin, the active compound in turmeric, has very poor skin absorption.⁵ This means only a small amount is taken or absorbed in each wash, so it may take longer for you to enjoy turmeric’s benefits for skin health. 

Also, unlike curcumin supplements, which are absorbed into the bloodstream and work throughout the body, turmeric soap doesn’t address deeper issues. It can’t tackle internal inflammation or hormonal imbalances, which are often the underlying causes of breakouts and hyperpigmentation.

Why settle for soap? Our Meriva® Curcumin supplement does more!

While turmeric soap can offer some benefits for your skin, curcumin supplements provide a more powerful and comprehensive solution that goes beyond surface-level improvements. 

One of the biggest advantages of our Meriva® Curcumin supplement is its superior absorption. In its natural form, curcumin has poor bioavailability which means your body struggles to absorb it effectively.⁵

Our Meriva® formulation pairs curcumin with phytosomes, boosting its absorption by up to 29 times compared to standard curcumin supplements.⁶ This increased bioavailability allows you to fully experience Meriva curcumin’s benefits.

Dr. Vijayanand Pujari, our pharmaceutical scientist with over a decade of experience in supplement formulation, explains why curcumin is such a promising natural solution for skin health and disease management:

Oral curcumin capsules with phytosomal technology (like Meriva®) offer significant benefits for skin health due to curcumin’s potent anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antimicrobial properties. It effectively blocks pathways that cause inflammation and reduces free radicals in the body.²

Curcumin’s impact extends to managing skin conditions like psoriasis and vitiligo by lowering oxidative stress and promoting detoxification. Clinical studies have also shown curcumin’s positive effects on acne, alopecia, atopic dermatitis, facial photoaging, and pruritus. ^{7 8 9 10 11}

Moreover, curcumin’s role in wound healing and skin regeneration further highlights its potential for improving overall skin health.²

Other things to know about turmeric soap – and why Curcumin supplements are better 

Does turmeric soap help with skin aging?

​​Yes, it can help with skin aging by hydrating the skin and promoting firmness and elasticity.^{12 13} However, as mentioned above, its effects remain mostly on the surface.

Taking curcumin orally, rather than applying it topically, can more effectively combat skin aging by reducing inflammaging (this is low-grade inflammation that comes with age). Additionally, oral curcumin may help lower the risk of age-related diseases.¹⁴

How long does turmeric soap take to work?

Turmeric soap results depend on ingredients, usage frequency, and skin goals. If it contains moisturizers like coconut oil and shea butter, you might notice softer and smoother skin within days. However, for brightening effects or dark spot reduction, daily use over several weeks is usually needed to see visible results.

On the other hand, studies done on dietary curcumin supplements show that it may typically take 4 to 8 weeks of daily use to reduce inflammation and improve skin health from within.¹⁵

What happens when you stop using turmeric soap?

When you stop using the soap, surface benefits like smoother skin and reduced dark spots will gradually fade, as its effects are temporary. 

Similarly, the benefits of curcumin supplements, will also taper off when you stop taking them. Fortunately, curcumin supplements are generally considered safe for long-term use, so you can take them for as long as you feel they help you.¹⁶ That said, it’s always wise to consult with your doctor before starting any long-term supplement regimen. 

What are the side effects of turmeric soap?

Some people might experience dryness, irritation, or allergic reactions to using soap, particularly if they have sensitive skin. 

Curcumin supplements, on the other hand, are generally well-tolerated and have been shown to be safe even at high doses (12g per day).¹⁷ But again, as with any supplement, it’s best to consult your doctor, particularly if you’re on medication, to avoid potential interactions.

Final thoughts

If you’re looking to get the most out of turmeric, pairing turmeric soap with our Curcumin supplement provides the ultimate approach. Use the soap in your morning or evening routine, then follow with a moisturizer. Then take 1-2 capsules of Meriva Curcumin once or twice daily, ideally with breakfast or dinner. With regular use, this combination can promote glowing skin while supporting long-lasting benefits from the inside out.

References:

1. “Effect of Curcuminoids on Oxidative Stress: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials.” Journal of Functional Foods, vol. 18, 1 Oct. 2015, pp. 898–909, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jff.2015.01.005. ‌ ︎
2. Rathee, Prity, et al. “Skin Hyperpigmentation and Its Treatment with Herbs: An Alternative Method.” Future Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences, vol. 7, no. 1, 2 July 2021, https://doi.org/10.1186/s43094-021-00284-6. ︎
3. Vollono, Laura, et al. “Potential of Curcumin in Skin Disorders.” Nutrients, vol. 11, no. 9, 10 Sept. 2019, https://doi.org/10.3390/nu11092169. ‌ ︎
4. Tabassiya Kowser R, et al. “Efficacy of Herbal Anti-Microbial Soap in Tinea Corporis: A Randomized Controlled Study.” Journal of Ethnopharmacology, vol. 287, 1 Apr. 2022, pp. 114934–114934, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jep.2021.114934. ︎
5. Anand, Preetha, et al. “Bioavailability of Curcumin: Problems and Promises.” Molecular Pharmaceutics, vol. 4, no. 6, 2007, pp. 807–18, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/17999464, https://doi.org/10.1021/mp700113r. ︎
6. Belcaro, Gianni, et al. “Efficacy and Safety of Meriva®, a Curcumin-Phosphatidylcholine Complex, during Extended Administration in Osteoarthritis Patients.” Alternative Medicine Review: A Journal of Clinical Therapeutic, vol. 15, no. 4, 1 Dec. 2010, pp. 337–344, pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21194249/. ︎
7. Zhang, YunFeng, et al. “Curcumin-Mediated Photodynamic Therapy for Mild to Moderate Acne: A Self-Controlled Split-Face Randomized Study.” Photodiagnosis and Photodynamic Therapy, vol. 45, 1 Feb. 2024, pp. 103887–103887, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.pdpdt.2023.103887. ︎
8. Panahi, Yunes, et al. “Improvement of Sulphur Mustard-Induced Chronic Pruritus, Quality of Life and Antioxidant Status by Curcumin: Results of a Randomised, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Trial.” British Journal of Nutrition, vol. 108, no. 7, 18 Nov. 2011, pp. 1272–1279, https://doi.org/10.1017/s0007114511006544. ︎
9. Ryan, Julie L, et al. “Curcumin for Radiation Dermatitis: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Clinical Trial of Thirty Breast Cancer Patients.” Radiation Research, vol. 180, no. 1, 2013, pp. 34–43, https://doi.org/10.1667/RR3255.1. ︎
10. Agrawal, Rumjhum, and Indu Pal Kaur. “Inhibitory Effect of Encapsulated Curcumin on Ultraviolet-Induced Photoaging in Mice.” Rejuvenation Research, vol. 13, no. 4, Aug. 2010, pp. 397–410, https://doi.org/10.1089/rej.2009.0906. ︎
11. Togni, Stefano, et al. “Oral Curcumin (Meriva®) Reduces Symptoms and Recurrence Rates in Subjects with Atopic Dermatitis.” Esperienze Dermatologiche, vol. 21, no. 2-4, Jan. 2020, https://doi.org/10.23736/s1128-9155.19.00486-2. ︎
12. Asada, Kazuki, et al. “Effects of Hot Water Extract of Curcuma Longa on Human Epidermal Keratinocytes in Vitro and Skin Conditions in Healthy Participants: A Randomized, Double‐Blind, Placebo‐Controlled Trial.” Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, vol. 18, no. 6, 27 Feb. 2019, pp. 1866–1874, https://doi.org/10.1111/jocd.12890. ‌ ︎
13. Ritamaria Di Lorenzo, et al. “Clinical Studies on Topical Curcumin.” Skin Pharmacology and Physiology, 26 Nov. 2023, pp. 1–14, https://doi.org/10.1159/000535100. ‌ ︎
14. Bielak-Zmijewska, Anna, et al. “The Role of Curcumin in the Modulation of Ageing.” International Journal of Molecular Sciences, vol. 20, no. 5, 12 Mar. 2019, p. 1239, https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms20051239. ‌ ︎
15. Vaughn, Alexandra R., et al. “Effects of Turmeric (Curcuma Longa) on Skin Health: A Systematic Review of the Clinical Evidence.” Phytotherapy Research, vol. 30, no. 8, 23 May 2016, pp. 1243–1264, https://doi.org/10.1002/ptr.5640. ︎
16. Center for Devices and Radiological Health. “Code of Federal Regulations – Title 21 – Food and Drugs.” U.S. Food and Drug Administration, 2018, www.fda.gov/medical-devices/medical-device-databases/code-federal-regulations-title-21-food-and-drugs. ︎
17. Lao, Christopher D, et al. “Dose Escalation of a Curcuminoid Formulation.” BMC Complementary and Alternative Medicine, vol. 6, no. 1, 17 Mar. 2006, https://doi.org/10.1186/1472-6882-6-10. ‌ ︎

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