Feasibility Study of Turmeric (Curcuma longa) as a Main Ingredient for an

Alternative Organic Cream Mask for Acne Vulgaris: An Experimental

Study

Balintong, Chanice Jenelles I. Palencia, Crislen D.

Brilliantes, Angela A. Sumayod, Ian B.
Buque, Charlotte C. Yanos, Lance
Heindrick
Distrajo, Brent Clyde D. Zeta, Eujan Eol B.

Block 16 – STEM

A Research Proposal

Submitted in Partial Fulfillment

of the course Practical Research

ACLC College of Tacloban

Senior High School Department

Tacloban City, Leyte

 2023
Chapter I

INTRODUCTION

Background of the Study

Since the widespread of the highly contagious and deadly disease known

as COVID-19, every single individual stayed at their respective homes to ensure

their safety. As a result of this, governments proceeded to adjust based on the

situation and implemented systems that could still help maintain the normal

lifestyle that everybody had. They enforced protocols to ensure safety and

methods to enable social institutions to continue such as education.

During this time, media had a large influence on almost everybody, and

the term “glow up” blew up. Pictures and videos of people showing their before

covid and during or after covid were everywhere. Since almost everybody was

only staying at their homes, they had enough time to also improve or change

their physical features. This is when more skin cares were more used.

The skin is the outmost layer of the body that is often easily damaged by

environmental factors as well as stress and poor eating habits. To care of their

body, they use skin cares such as soaps, lotions, and other similar cosmetics

and products. One of these is cream masks.

A cream mask is a skin product that is used to moisturize and soothe dry

irritated skin. The product is applied to cleansed skin, is allowed to remain on the
skin for a certain period of time, and is then removed with warm water (What is a

Cream Mask?, 2020).

In this study, the main types of acne that will be targeted are the non-

inflammatory ones which are the blackheads (open comedones) and whiteheads

(closed comedones). Blackheads occur when a pore is clogged by a combination

of sebum, bacteria and dead skin cells. The top of the pore stays open, despite

the rest of it being clogged. This results in the black color seen on the surface.

Whiteheads on the other hand also form when a pore gets clogged by sebum,

bacteria and dead skin cells. But unlike blackheads, the top of the pore closes

up. It looks like a small bump protruding from the skin (Cherney, 2019).

Turmeric is an herbaceous evergreen plant in the ginger family. It is

extensively used as a spice, food preservative and coloring material. Apart from

its culinary uses, it has been used widely in the traditional medicine all over the

world. Curcumin, the main yellow bioactive component of turmeric has been

shown been shown to have a spectrum of biological actions. These include anti-

inflammatory, anti-bacterial, and anti-fungal components. It can also treat skin

irritations which is how it is often used (Verma et al., 2018).

This study will be conducted to address the feasibility of turmeric

(Curcuma longa) as a main ingredient for an alternative organic cream mask.

This study will also show the effects it has against acne, and what variables

influence the negative effects. With these data, the researchers intend to shed

light on potential research routes and possibilities for the said experimental

study. Specifically, the study is aimed to investigate the effect of turmeric as a

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main ingredient for an alternative organic cream mask against non-inflammatory

acne.

Objectives of the Study

The purpose of this study is to evaluate the efficacy of turmeric as a main

ingredient of an alternative organic cream mask for acne therefore, this study will

aim the following:

1.) Determine the relationship between turmeric and acne.

a.) Find out how turmeric's bioactive component containing non-bacterial

and non-inflammatory properties affect acne.

b.) Discover and prevent possible negative effects such as skin irritation.

c.) Produce a product against acne that is not difficult to create.

Statement of the Hypotheses

Due to the fact that turmeric has anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory

properties, the researchers hypothesized that this independent variable will

cause an effect as an alternative main ingredient of a cream mask against acne.

The following are the results that will surface on the first trial, the alternative

and the null hypothesis of the study.

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1. Alternative Hypothesis (HA) - there is an effect of turmeric against acne with a

ratio of ½ tbs of turmeric, 1 tbs of honey, ½ tbs of yogurt and ½ tbs of aloe vera.

2. Null Hypothesis (HO) - the anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory of turmeric will

have no effect on acne.

Conceptual Framework

Turmeric-based Non-inflammatory
cream mask Acne

Figure 1: A Research Paradigm Representing the Conceptual Framework of the

Study.

In accordance to what Waghmare, et al. (2017) found during their study,

turmeric has shown that curcumin has potent antioxidant, wound-healing, and

anti-inflammatory properties which may prove to be therapeutic against acne.

The researchers will use turmeric as a major ingredient for a cream mask due to

its bioactive properties and will be used as an anti-acne agent.

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Significance of the Study

This study will be undertaken to determine the feasibility of turmeric as a

main ingredient of an alternative organic cream mask for Acne vulgaris, as well

as determine negative effects that may surface.

Benefiting the study are the various sectors that follows:

Teenagers - this will be a huge help for teenagers since acne is a common

problem in teenagers and some treatments aren’t just compatible or not available

for them.

Students - this study will guide students as they expand their knowledge and

accumulate information to have a better understanding of the subject at hand.

To the community - through this research, the community will further realize the

promotion of the use of medical plants, especially turmeric as a preventive

measure against various diseases.

To future researchers - the data gathered from this research may possibly be

used as an example or as an RRL for future studies that are similar or related to

our topic.

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Scope and Limitations of the Study

The primary focus of this study will be the efficacy of turmeric’s main

component, curcumin and its anti-bacterial property against acne, mainly the

inflammatory ones. It will determine whether the alternative organic cream mask

made out of turmeric will be safe for external use.

The research method that will be utilized for the gathering of data for this

study will be through conducting experiment tests. The research participants will

be divided into two groups. Those who have inflammatory acne and those who

don’t, then the researchers will randomly select from each group.

Due to this being an experimental method, it will be difficult for some

participants to participate due to the risk of possible side effects which makes it

challenging to conduct this study and acquire data.

This study will only include ACLC College of Tacloban STEM students in

Grade 12 block 16 during the 2022-2023 academic years. The study will begin in

December 2022 and should be completed no later than July.

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Definition of Terms

Acne – a facial skin disease specifically, non-inflammatory acne. This will be the

target of the said study.

COVID19 – coronavirus disease is an infectious disease caused by the SARS-

CoV-2 virus, the virus responsible for the global pandemic.

Cream mask – the product that will contain the turmeric’s main component

curcumin, against non-inflammatory acne.

Experiments – a scientific procedure undertaken to make an acceptable

conclusion regarding turmeric and its effects on non-inflammatory acne.

Organic – produced or involving production without the use of chemical

fertilizers, pesticides, or other artificial agents. The property that the product will

be labeled upon.

Pandemic – the point of time where people had the chance to beautify and take

care of their health due to the fact that they only stayed at their respective

homes.

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Research method – is the strategy, process or techniques utilized in the

collection of data or evidence for analysis to uncover and determine the

relationship between turmeric’s property and acne.

Turmeric – a plant that has anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory properties that

will be used as the main ingredient for the product.

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 Chapter II

REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE

This chapter presents a retrospective presentation of previously published

information, including research literature and conceptual material, that is relevant

and significant to the topic under consideration. This also includes theories and

other information to fully understand the study.

Foreign Literatures

Heng (2017) conducted a review regarding curcumin and mechanisms

and uses in dermatology. Heng (2017) showed examples of the clinical effects of

topical curcumin on a spectrum of dermatologic conditions and emphasized that

these are clinical cases treated with topical curcumin usually in association with

other standard therapy, including antibiotics. According to Heng (2017), they

were not part of a protocol designed to systematically investigate the clinical

efficacy of topical curcumin. Instead, Heng (2017) used them as examples of

results in our experience with the goal of informing other investigators of the

potential therapeutic value of topical curcumin, and to encourage future proof of

concept studies into its use for skin disorders. Moreover, Heng (2017) believe

that from the viewpoint of having preliminary proof of clinical benefit, and of

biologic plausibility for these benefits from preclinical studies of biologic

9
mechanisms, there are sufficient grounds to regard topical curcumin as a

potential effective therapy for a number of dermatologic disorders and as

rationale for further clinical trials to evaluate its efficacy.

Chae (2019) investigated test tube studies that have shown curcumin to

be anti-bacterial, anti-fungal, and anti-inflammatory. One study showed curcumin

being 36 times stronger than azelaic acid against the bacteria P. acnes.

Curcumin also showed activity against Candida yeasts, though not as strong as

anti-fungal drugs. Test tube studies, however, may not always be reflective of

real-life effects.

Moreover, Chae (2019) also stated that of the few human studies, one showed

curcumin to be more effective than the prescription drug calcipotriol against

psoriasis. This was due to its keratolytic effects, which reduced the clumping of

skin cells that block pores. However, Chae (2019) argued that While acne and

psoriasis are not the same things, the keratolytic effects observed in curcumin

suggest that it could also help acne.

Local Literatures

Turmeric evens out skin pigmentation. If you've got tons of dark spots left

by breakouts or caused by frequent sun exposure, add turmeric to your

routine. One study showed that a turmeric-infused cream reduced

hyperpigmentation by about 14 percent after four weeks of use. It also helps

10
soothe psoriasis. Several studies have shown that turmeric can provide relief for

those who have psoriasis. Moreover, it delays signs of aging. Curcumin, the

major ingredient in turmeric, has strong antioxidant properties that keep free

radicals in check. It also helps stimulate new cell growth to reveal youthful-

looking skin Why Is It Good for Oily and Acne-Prone Skin? (2017).

Zone (2022) found that Both turmeric and honey are able to scavenge free

radicals, which can damage cells and contribute to the signs of aging.

Additionally, both ingredients are anti-inflammatory, which can help to calm

inflamed skin. Furthermore, Zone (2022) added that another benefit of using

turmeric and honey together is that they create a natural moisturizer. Honey is a

natural humectant, meaning it draws moisture from the air into the skin. Turmeric

contains curcumin, which has been shown to be an effective moisturizer by

helping to improve blood circulation. This can help to keep the skin healthy and

hydrated. 

Foreign Studies

Waghmare et al. (2017) found that Turmeric has shown that curcumin has

potent antioxidant, wound-healing, and anti-inflammatory properties, which

may prove to be therapeutic against acne. Waghmare et al. (2017) found that it is

considered safe in amounts found in foods and when taken orally and

topically in medicinal quantities. Furthermore, Waghmare et al. (2017) stated

11
that it could cause atopic dermatitis in some people. However, pregnant women

should not take medicinal amounts of turmeric because it could stimulate the

uterus. Topical use of turmeric may cause the skin to temporarily stain the skin

with yellow colors especially in people with light skin tones. When used as a

topical remedy, it is typically mixed with water or honey to a pasty consistency

and applied directly to the skin.

Vaughn et al. (2016) investigated the systematic review was conducted to

examine the evidence for the use of both topical and ingested turmeric/curcumin

to modulate skin health and function where the PubMed and Embase databases

were systematically searched for clinical studies involving humans that examined

the relationship between products containing turmeric, curcumin, and skin health.

According to Vaughn et al. (2016), a total of 234 articles were uncovered, and a

total of 18 studies met inclusion criteria. Nine studies evaluated the effects of

ingestion, eight studies evaluated the effects of topical, and one study evaluated

the effects of both ingested and topical application of turmeric/curcumin. Skin

conditions examined include acne, alopecia, atopic dermatitis, facial photo aging,

oral lichen planus, pruritus, psoriasis, radio dermatitis, and vitiligo. Moreover,

Vaughn et al. (2016), added that ten studies noted statistically significant

improvement in skin disease severity in the turmeric/curcumin treatment groups

compared with control groups. Overall, there is early evidence that

turmeric/curcumin products and supplements, both oral and topical, may provide

therapeutic benefits for skin health. However, Vaughn et al. (2016) also stated

12
that the currently published studies are limited and further studies will be

essential to better evaluate efficacy and the mechanisms involved.

Local Study

Abecia et al. (2012) conducted a study that aimed to determine the

effectiveness of Curcuma longa (Turmeric) extract on the severity of facial acne

vulgaris among selected adolescent residents in the Province of Cebu: Basis for

information dissemination as potential alternative treatment of acne. Abecia et al.

(2012) emphasizes the median score obtained from the 10 participants before

application of turmeric extract to the experimental group was 2. After 7 days of

application, the median score was 1. On the other hand, the median score

obtained from the 10 participants before application of benzoyl peroxide to the

control group was 2. After 7 days of application the median score was 1. Using

the Wilcoxon Signed Rank Test, the experimental group (p=0.046) and control

group(p=0.046) both revealed that there was significant improvement on the

acne condition of participants in both groups after the 7-day application of

turmeric extract and benzoyl peroxide respectively.

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 Chapter III

METHODOLOGY

This chapter presents how the researchers will encompass the way in

which the study will be carried out. This will include a detailed discussion on the

specific methods and procedures of data collection and analysis.

Materials and Equipment

The researchers plan to utilize the materials and equipment below in order

to create the product and proceed to the collection of data and analysis.

Item Amount Description

Turmeric Powder ½ tablespoon Curcumin, its main bioactive

component that has anti-
bacterial and anti-
inflammatory properties will
be used as the cream’s main
ingredient against acne.
Honey 1 tablespoon The liquidity and density of
honey will be the base of the
texture for the cream mask.
Yogurt ½ tablespoon This will help prevent the
turmeric from staining the
skin.
Aloe vera ½ tablespoon It’s amino and salicylic acid
will help temporarily soothe

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 redness of the skin.
Tablespoon 1 This equipment will be used
for measuring the amounts of
the ingredients mentioned
above.
Mixing bowl 1 This will be the medium used
to mix the ingredients in order
to create an acceptable
mixture.
Jar 1 This will serve as the
container for the finished
product.

Figure 3.1: Materials and Equipment Table

Treatment and Variables

The researchers plan to test 2 sets of acnes to determine and evaluate the

efficacy of turmeric as a main ingredient of a cream mask against acne.

With Without Tbs of Tbs of Tbs of Tbs of

Turmeric Turmeric Turmeric Honey Hogur Aloe
Cream Cream t vera
Mask Mask
1st Acne ✓
trial
#1

Acne ✓ ½ 1 ½ ½

#2

2nd Acne ✓ 1 ½ ½ ½

trial #1

3rd Acne ✓ 1 ½ 1 ½

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 trial #1

Figure 3.2: A Table Representing the Trials that the Researchers will Conduct.

The researchers made two sets of acnes that are to be observed, one with

the turmeric cream mask and the one without turmeric cream mask.

Each trial will be observed in a total of 8 days. The researchers expect

that the experimentation will take in a total span of 36 days to have a definite

result.

Controlled Group

The controlled group is the acne without turmeric cream mask (1 st trial).

Treatment group

The treatment groups are the acne with turmeric cream mask (1 st trial) as

well as the following trials.

16
Flow of the Procedure

17
Figure 3.3: A Research Paradigm Representing the Flowchart of the Procedure

of the Study.

General Procedure

Experimentation and observation will be used by the researchers to

conduct their research. When assembling the materials, the researchers will

either purchase the supplies or, if they are already present in their respective

locations, bring those with them to the testing site which will be conducted at

Tacloban City, Leyte.

The preparation of the materials required for the experiment will be

handled by the researchers. In this part, a detailed discussion and presentation

will be presented regarding the steps involved in creating the turmeric cream

mask against acne.

Procedure:

● The researchers will prepare the materials and the equipment

● For the first trial, using the measuring spoon, measure the turmeric

powder 1 tbsp, honey 1 tbsp, yogurt ½ tbsp, and aloe vera ½ tbsp. Put it

all in a mixing bowl and mix.

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● After properly mixing, apply a small amount of the product in the wrist for

the patch test and let sit for thirty minutes.

● Then the researcher will observe if there are any side effects, discomforts,

irritation, redness, swelling, and etc.

● If there are signs of side effects the researcher will then approach for a

second trial with some changes of measurement of the said material.

● In the second trial, using the measuring spoon, measure the turmeric

powder 1 ½ tbsp, the honey and the yogurt still have the same

measurements from the first trial, and the aloe vera 1 ½ tbsp. Put it all in a

mixing bowl and mix.

● After properly mixing, apply a small amount of the product in the wrist for

the patch test and let sit for thirty minutes.

● Then the researcher will observe if there are any side effects, discomforts,

irritation, redness, swelling, and etc.

● If there are signs of side effects the researcher will then approach for a

third trial with some changes of measurement of the said material.

● Third trial, using the measuring spoon, measure the turmeric powder ½

tbsp, honey ½ tbsp, yogurt 1 tbsp, aloe vera 1 tbsp. Put it all in a mixing

bowl and mix.

● After properly mixing, apply a small amount of the product in the wrist for

the patch test and let sit for thirty minutes.

● Then the researcher will observe if there are any side effects, discomforts,

irritation, redness, swelling, and etc.

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 ● If there are still signs of side effects and the researchers are still not

satisfied with the outcome, more trials are expected to be done.

Data Gathering Procedure

The data regarding the effects of turmeric as an alternative main

ingredient for cream mask against acne will be gathered as primary data through

conducting experiments to test the cause-and-effect relationships between (1)

turmeric and (2) acne where they will be manipulated and be measured. After the

gathering the data, it will be analyzed and processed to produce an acceptable

and meaningful conclusion. The researchers will derive conclusions and

suggestions for this study based on the data.

Data Analysis

The data collected will be analyzed using statistical analysis where the

data collected will be analyzed in a statistically valid manner. Using linear

regression analysis, the researchers will be able to evaluate the effectiveness of

turmeric as a main ingredient of a cream ask as an alternative cream mask for

acne where the measurements for the ingredients, mainly turmeric is the

independent variable and acne being affected by the product is the dependent

20
variable. The formula for the regression line is Y = 100 + 7X + error term where Y

is the dependent variable and X being the dependent variable.

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Philippine Herbs and Supplements Research Database - Effect of

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