Turmeric

Turmeric comes from Curcuma longa and contains curcuminoids, including curcumin, that have been studied for antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. Cosmetic formulas may use turmeric extract, curcumin or related botanical fractions, which are not identical in concentration or activity.

Clinical reviews suggest promising dermatologic applications, but studies use varied oral and topical preparations and the evidence is not specific to every cosmetic turmeric extract. In skincare it is best treated as a supportive antioxidant and soothing botanical rather than a proven stand-alone brightening treatment.