Patanjali co-founder Acharya Balkrishna recently shared a home remedy for sun tanning on Facebook. His post recommends mixing two tablespoons of besan with a small amount of curd and two pinches of turmeric to form a paste. Apply it on the skin for 20 minutes, then rinse with plain water. He claims the remedy brightens the complexion. The post drew wide attention online.
The three-ingredient combination has roots in Ayurvedic practice. It also has a growing body of scientific research backing its core components. Here is what the evidence says about each one.
What turmeric actually does to the skin
Turmeric (Curcuma longa) is a flowering plant in the ginger family, native to the Indian subcontinent. Research indicates that its skin-friendly compounds have been part of Ayurvedic practice for around 4,000 years.
The key bioactive compound in turmeric is curcumin. It fights oxidative stress, reduces inflammation, promotes healing. Research shows turmeric is beneficial for wound healing, managing hyperpigmentation, supporting the skin barrier.
On the question of skin tone, science is specific. Study conducted in vitro on skin cells showed that curcumin has a tyrosinase inhibitory effect. Tyrosinase is the enzyme responsible for converting tyrosine into melanin. The study also found that curcumin reduces the expression of the gene coding for tyrosinase. Turmeric additionally contains alpha-turmerone, a compound that inhibits the synthesis of alpha-MSH, a hormone that activates receptors responsible for triggering melanin production.
A study published in the International Journal of Biological Macromolecules found that aromatic turmerone, a turmeric-derived compound, can inhibit tyrosinase activity. Turmeric is also an antioxidant that fights oxidative stress caused by UV exposure and pollution, which the researchers argue could protect the skin from forming new dark spots while reducing inflammation.
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A 2009 study found that curcumin extract not only protected against UV rays but also prevented the formation of UV-induced pigmentation. A 2013 study further found that curcumin inhibited tyrosinase activity at a level comparable to ingredients used in commercial hyperpigmentation products.
Clinical data also exists. A split-face randomised controlled trial found that a topical turmeric extract formulation improved areas of hyperpigmentation by 14.16 percent at four weeks.
Dermatologists do add caution. Turmeric has “at least some evidence of anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antioxidant properties,” according to board-certified dermatologist Dr. Daniel Friedmann. However, he notes that many claims are based on single studies with few participants.
The role of besan
Besan is not just a binding agent in this paste. It works on its own.
According to a research article published by the International Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences, the zinc present in gram flour helps reduce dark spots and blemishes and delays premature ageing.
Gram flour has a gentle skin-lightening effect. It helps fade tans, dark spots, and uneven skin tone. The natural enzymes in besan improve complexion gradually without harsh bleaching chemicals.
Its texture also serves a functional purpose. Gram flour is a gentle natural exfoliant that helps remove dead skin cells, revealing a brighter layer underneath. It can also absorb excess oil from the skin. This is important in the context of sun tan. Dead skin cells that carry surface discolouration are physically lifted off during application and rinsing.
If you have oily skin, a face pack using besan helps control excess sebum production. Clogged pores and excess oil make the skin appear dull and uneven.
Why curd is in the formula
Curd is abundant in lactic acid, a natural alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA) that gently exfoliates the skin without stripping its natural oils. It helps remove dead skin cells, revealing brighter and smoother skin underneath.
Lactic acid in curd acts as a mild exfoliant and helps lighten tanned skin. It also soothes and hydrates the skin, reducing redness and irritation caused by sun exposure. Beyond lactic acid, curd contains zinc and probiotics. These support the skin’s natural barrier and help in cell repair.
Sun tan: what it is
Sun tanning is the skin’s response to UV radiation. The skin produces more melanin to protect itself from UV damage. This melanin accumulates unevenly and produces the darkened appearance most people associate with tanning. None of this involves a change in inherent skin colour. It is a surface-level pigmentation response. UV damage to skin may also have a negative psychological impact on individuals, including embarrassment and social isolation, according to researchers studying natural anti-melanogenesis compounds.
Natural remedies like the one Balkrishna shared work by targeting this process: inhibiting melanin production, exfoliating pigmented surface cells, and reducing UV-linked inflammation.
How to use it correctly
The remedy Balkrishna suggests is consistent with general Ayurvedic and dermatological guidance on DIY skin packs. Two tablespoons of besan, a small quantity of plain curd, and two pinches of turmeric form a spreadable paste. Apply it evenly on affected areas and leave for 20 minutes. Rinse with plain, room-temperature water.
A few practical notes. Do a patch test on the wrist before applying to the face. Turmeric can temporarily stain fair skin yellow. Using a minimal amount reduces this. Curd must be plain and unflavoured. Results with natural remedies are gradual and depend on consistency. Using this two to three times a week is considered reasonable.
Sun protection remains necessary alongside any remedy. No topical treatment is effective if UV exposure continues without any protection.