One of the most effective solutions to your various skin problems cannot be found at the nearest pharmacy or beauty shop, but in your kitchen. It’s also very cheap, too, which means that looking your best need not cause mayhem to your savings. This inexpensive yet super effective solution is none other than turmeric.

A staple in Indian and Middle Eastern cooking, turmeric is something that should be found not only in your spice rack but also in your room where all your various skincare products are.

You see, turmeric possesses incredible antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. Also, this deep yellow-colored spice boasts of over 300 different types of antioxidants! It’s exactly for these reasons why turmeric offers tons of health perks — and, naturally, it provides a number of beauty benefits, too.

Here are some of the most amazing beauty uses of turmeric:

Acne Healer

Something as simple as adding a few drops of water to a little turmeric makes for a really effective treatment for pesky acne — no need to shell out tons of money for those expensive anti-acne products! Some people swear that the effectiveness of turmeric against acne multiplies when lemon juice is added to it instead of water.

Excess Oil Absorber

Mixing a pinch of turmeric to a tablespoon of sandalwood powder or cooked oatmeal (cooled to room temperature!) lets you come up with a powerful oil-absorbing face mask. Just apply on your face and leave it there for about 20 minutes. Afterwards, thoroughly rinse off with lukewarm water.

Wrinkle Improver

It’s no secret that some of the most effective wrinkle fighters on the current market do not come cheap. If you don’t have the budget for any of those, simply combine turmeric and rice flour, plus a little tomato juice and milk. Massage the paste on your face. After 20 to 30 minutes, wash off thoroughly with water.

Scar Lightener

Dark scars keeping you from feeling confident? Fret not because you can lighten them up with turmeric. All you have to do is make a thick paste by adding a few drops of lemon juice to a little turmeric powder. Daub the paste on problem spots and let it stay in place for half an hour. Rinse off afterwards. Do this regularly for dramatic results in no time.

Stretch Mark Eraser

Turmeric may be employed for improving the appearance of those unsightly stretch marks. To make them go away, simply combine equal amounts of gram flour and turmeric. Add a little yogurt to come up with a paste. On a daily basis, gently massage this paste on problem areas. Wash off with water after about half an hour.

Dandruff Remover

You may also rely on turmeric if you are suffering from dandruff. What you need to do is combine half a cup of olive oil and a teaspoon of turmeric powder. Massage the mixture on your scalp 20 minutes before you hit the shower. Shampoo your hair as usual. Do this daily or every other day to put an end to that pesky dandruff.