Abstract
Curcumin, an active constituent of the spice turmeric, is well
known for its chemopreventive properties and is found to be
beneficial in treating various disorders including skin diseases.
Curcumin protects skin by quenching free radicals
and reducing inflammation through the inhibition of nuclear
factor-kappa B. Curcumin also affects other signaling pathways
including transforming growth factor-b and mitogenactivated
protein kinase pathway. Curcumin also modulates
the phase II detoxification enzymes which are crucial in
detoxification reactions and for protection against oxidative
stress. In the present review, the biological mechanisms of
the chemopreventive potential of curcumin in various skin
diseases like psoriasis, vitiligo, and melanoma is discussed.
The application of curcumin in skin regeneration and wound
healing is also elucidated. We also explored the recent innovations
and advances involved in the development of transdermal
delivery systems to enhance the bioavailability of
curcumin, particularly in the skin. Recent clinical trials pertaining
to the use of curumin in skin diseases establishes its
benefits and also the need for additional clinical trials in
other diseases are discussed.