Native to Southeast Asia, turmeric is a plant in the ginger family with a long history in traditional Chinese and Ayurvedic medicine. While the plant has historically been popular as a dietary supplement for treating digestive issues, allergies, and types of infections, the last few decades have witnessed increased popularity of turmeric as a natural ingredient for skin and hair care. Because curcumin, a natural antioxidant, is the main compound found in turmeric, it gives turmeric its distinct yellow coloring and anti-inflammatory properties. It’s no secret why this ingredient has become extremely popular and is found in face creams, balms, and various therapeutic shampoos!

Because of its anti-inflammatory properties, there’s no denying that turmeric has many benefits for your hair. The next time you find yourself at the salon or beauty store, check the shelves—you will find it in anything from shampoos and conditioners to treatment oils and hair masks. If you’re unsure if turmeric will help your strands, check out some of the added benefits below!

Oil Control: Due to its anti-microbial properties, Turmeric is great for treating oily hair and scalps. Anti-microbial properties prevent the growth of microorganisms, something that clients with oily scalps are often prone to.

Dandruff Prevention: When left untreated, dandruff can eventually lead to hair loss, so it is important to fight off dandruff early. Our stylists at the Z Hair Academy cosmetology school in Kansas City recommend turmeric to treat dandruff because of its anti-inflammatory and anti-microbial benefits. Not only will this help keep the scalp healthy, but it will promote new hair growth!

Hair Loss Prevention: If you struggle with hair loss, worry no more! The anti-inflammatory properties found in turmeric help stimulate hair growth because most hair loss is caused by some level of inflammation. By reducing this inflammation, you can help reduce hair loss on the scalp or hair follicles.

Environmental Protection: Oftentimes, free radicals can damage your scalp and complexion. Turmeric helps fight these off and protect your hair follicles from damage by harmful molecules.

There are a variety of ways to incorporate turmeric into your regular diet to help achieve the benefits of healthy hair. While it can be applied topically or taken orally, our stylists recommend trying out the following methods to reap the full benefits turmeric has to offer:

Make a Hair Mask: If you are looking to try your hand at a DIY hair mask, this is the perfect opportunity. Not only is this at-home hair mask affordable, but it only takes a couple of minutes to make! Start by mixing equal parts olive oil and turmeric together in a bowl, and add a bit of honey if you wish for your mask to be more moisturizing. Apply the mixture evenly to your hair and let it sit for 15-20 minutes so that all ingredients can soak into your hair. Rinse out the mask once your hair has set and follow up with your favorite shampoo and conditioner.

Take a Supplement: If hair masks aren’t for you, you can still benefit from the hair and skin perks of turmeric by taking an oral supplement. This will help so that the turmeric can be processed in your stomach and have a systemic reduction of inflammation throughout the entire body. Depending on the concentration of turmeric, our experts recommend taking 500 to 2000 milligrams per day.

Use a Shampoo: You can also transition into daily turmeric use by purchasing a shampoo that contains the anti-inflammatory ingredient. Pair this with your favorite conditioner, and enjoy!

Whether you would like to visit our student salon within the Z Hair Academy cosmetology school in Kansas City or are interested in pursuing a career in hair, we want to talk to you! Contact our cosmetology school in Kansas City or one of our three other locations. We look forward to speaking with you!

Get Started