Effect of Turmeric (Curcuma longa Zingiberaceae) Extract Cream on Human Skin Sebum Secretion

Purpose: To evaluate the effect of a w/o cream of turmeric (Curcuma longa Zingiberaceae) extract on skin sebum secretion in human volunteers. Methods: Two w/o cream formulations were prepared one contained 5% extract prepared from the rhizomes of the plant, turmeric, and the second was similar except that it did not contain the extract and served as control. The antioxidant activity of the extract was determined by using the DPPH method. Evaluation of the effect of the creams on skin sebum secretion was conducted with the aid of a sebumeter. Initial sebum measurements on the face of thirteen human volunteers were taken with the sebumeter prior to application of cream, and then fortnightly after twice daily application of cream (on the right and left cheeks for control and extract creams, respectively) over a period of three months. Results: Significant increase (p ˂ 0.05) in the sebum values was observed from the 6 week onwards after control cream application. Maximum increase of 6.2% was observed on the 10 week of the study. On the other hand, following extract cream application, a significant decrease (p ˂ 0.05) in sebum secretion occurred from the 4 week onwards, reaching a maximum of 24.8% at the end of the study period. The antioxidant activity of the extract was 88.5% of the standard. Conclusion: The study demonstrates that the extract obtained from the rhizomes of turmeric plant can be used in skin preparations to regulate excessive sebum secretion in persons suffering from acne and related problems.