The traditional Indian cooking spice is also used in some sunscreens and smearing with turmeric paste is said to be an effective anti-inflammatory for skin. US public relations firm Pierce Mattie named it one of the cosmetic ingredients to watch out for this year for its antiseptic and healing properties, and it is also said to be able to prevent and cure pimples.

Some bloggers recommend it as a face mask ingredient using a turmeric paste mixed with sandalwood powder and a little edible oil. It can also reportedly be used to treat skin conditions including eczema and psoriasis.