Curcumin in Acne Management: A Narrative Review of Mechanisms and Efficacy

Acne vulgaris is a prevalent dermatological condition characterized by the involvement of Cutibacterium acnes, inflammation, and follicular hyperkeratinization, among other factors. Curcumin, a polyphenolic compound derived from turmeric, exhibits multifaceted anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. This review aims to elucidate its mechanisms of action, evaluate preclinical and clinical evidence, explore formulation strategies, and identify research gaps.

A comprehensive literature search was performed in the PubMed database, covering the period from its inception to March 2026. The search strategy incorporated a combination of keywords and Medical Subject Headings (MeSH) terms pertinent to curcumin (e.g., "curcumin," "turmeric"), acne (e.g., "acne vulgaris," "Cutibacterium acnes"), and related mechanisms and applications (e.g., "anti-inflammatory," "drug delivery systems"). The inclusion criteria encompassed original research articles, clinical trials, and systematic reviews published in peer-reviewed journals with full-text availability in English.

Curcumin demonstrates multi-target anti-inflammatory properties by inhibiting critical pathways involved in the pathogenesis of acne and exhibits significant antibacterial activity against Cutibacterium acnes. Its efficacy is notably enhanced when utilized in conjunction with innovative delivery systems. Preclinical studies have validated its favorable safety profile, while clinical trials have indicated preliminary efficacy.

Curcumin demonstrates the ability to concurrently target multiple pathogenic pathways in acne. Emerging delivery systems appear promising for addressing bioavailability challenges, and their favorable safety profile positions curcumin as a promising adjunctive treatment for acne vulgaris. Future research should prioritize conducting large-scale, randomized controlled trials with extended follow-up durations, standardized formulations, and comprehensive pharmacokinetic evaluations to establish dose-response relationships, thereby facilitating clinical translation.