Carol Belanger, author of 300+ Skin Care Recipes
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Complete Skin Care Therapy
Aloe Vera is commonly used in skin care products because it offers so many benefits. It can soften, soothe, and hydrate and has the ability to penetrate deep into the layers of the skin to promote cell regeneration. Additionally it has both antiseptic and antibiotic properties which makes it highly effective in treating skin irritations such as cuts, burns, eczema, and sunburns and will also relieve the itch from poison oak, poison ivy and poison sumac.
The active ingredients in Aloe Vera are quite remarkable. Although the plant is 96% water, the remaining 4% contains active ingredients such as seven amino acids, minerals and vitamins (A, C, E, B, B12, Folic Acid) and enzymes. The Vitamins A, C, and E contain antioxidants, which are why they are so widely used in skin care.
Another reason Aloe Vera is used so heavily in the cosmetic industry is because very few people are allergic to this wonderful plant. However, as with any new product a patch test is recommended. To do a patch test, break off a small portion of the plant and apply a small amount to the inside of wrist, wait 24 hours to see if there is any indication of an allergic reaction.
Growing your own Aloe Vera is recommended. They are a hardy plant and easy to care for. In many households, they are often grown on windowsills so that the wondrous properties of the plant are always available. Store bought gels, although effective, will never compare to the effectiveness of a freshly cut leaf. This is due in fact to the time that has elapsed from harvest to the final product and display.
If you decide on purchasing your Aloe Vera gel, read the label to ensure that it is 100% pure.
Easy Aloe Vera skin care recipes:
Aloe Vera Moisturizer
Mix together 1 tablespoon olive oil, and gel from one large leaf Aloe Vera plant. Apply a light layer every evening for a deep penetrating moisturizer. Keep unused portion in refrigerator for up to three days.
Oily Skin Facial Mask
1 teaspoon green clay
1 teaspoon Aloe Vera gel
1 teaspoon Witch Hazel
1 teaspoon lemon juice
Mix all ingredients to make a paste. Apply to face and let set for 10 minutes. Rinse with warm water then cool water.
Softening Face Scrub
1 Tablespoon Aloe Vera gel
1 teaspoon honey
2 Tablespoon finely ground oatmeal or cornmeal
Mix all ingredients and massage into skin. Rinse with warm water then cool water.