Curcumin (Curcuma longa): Applications in Clinical, Regenerative, and Aesthetic Dermatology.

Alexandra DeVries, Alec Lawson, Aysham Chaudry, Wilhelmina Lam, Mark S Nestor

Journal: The Journal of clinical and aesthetic dermatology 2026;19(8):57-66

PMID: 42877871

Abstract

BACKGROUND

Curcumin (CUR), the principal polyphenol in Curcuma longa, has gained increasing interest in dermatology because of its anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, photoprotective, and regenerative properties. Despite versatile biological activity, its clinical use has been limited by poor bioavailability and significant product variability across formulations.

METHODS

A targeted PubMed search was conducted using a combination of the following keywords: "curcumin," "turmeric," and "dermatology." Only articles in English and relevant to this review were included. Additional articles were included through citation tracking and the authors' clinical expertise.

RESULTS

The search yielded 375 results, and 94 articles and 2 webpages were included based on the inclusion and exclusion criteria.

DISCUSSION

CUR modulates multiple intracellular pathways, resulting in reduced pro-inflammatory cytokine expression, improved oxidative balance, and enhanced tissue repair. Despite an extremely favorable safety profile, the clinical use of CUR remains limited by poor bioavailability; however, newer formulations, including US Food and Drug Administration-recognized medical foods, have substantially improved absorption and product consistency. Clinically, CUR has shown immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory effects applicable to cutaneous conditions including psoriasis, atopic dermatitis, and photodamage and has exhibited antimicrobial activity in acne. Aesthetically, CUR reduces melanogenesis and provides firming effects by limiting oxidative stress and matrix metalloproteinase activity. Regeneratively, it modulates key longevity-associated pathways involved in cellular senescence, wound healing, and anti-aging.

CONCLUSION

CUR represents a safe and multifaceted agent with clinical, aesthetic, and regenerative dermatologic benefits. Emerging medical food formulations offer improved bioavailability and product consistency, though larger clinical trials are needed to define optimal dosing and long-term efficacy.

Address: All authors are with Center for Clinical and Cosmetic Research, Aventura, Florida.; Ms. DeVries is additionally with Rocky Vista University College of Osteopathic Medicine, Parker, Colorado.; All authors are with Center for Clinical and Cosmetic Research, Aventura, Florida.; Mr. Lawson is additionally with Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine, Midwestern University, Glendale, Arizona.; All authors are with Center for Clinical and Cosmetic Research, Aventura, Florida.; All authors are with Center for Clinical and Cosmetic Research, Aventura, Florida.; Dr. Nestor is additionally with the Department of Dermatology and Cutaneous Surgery and the Department of Surgery, Division of Plastic Surgery, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida.