Widely available, Aloe vera has been known for its innumerable skin and hair benefits for centuries. From soothing sunburn, locking in moisture to improving hair growth, there’s nothing that this wonder ingredient can’t do. Starring in a myriad of beauty products, this succulent plant is also the antidote to acne, scars and dryness. It is rich in vitamins, amino acids and phytosterols, so it serves as an anti-inflammatory ingredient too.
Here is a quick guide on the benefits of aloe vera gel for face and hair. While it makes for a great DIY ingredient, there are many aloe-based products that are worth trying. Ahead, some of our favourites.
Storehouse Of Nourishment
One of the key aloe vera benefits is its ability to nourish your skin. It retains moisture, giving you softer and moisturised skin. Aloe vera is also known to restore skin’s radiance and reduce signs of ageing like wrinkles and fine lines. It can work wonders for your hair too. It deeply nourishes the scalp and makes your hair smooth and frizz-free. Apply it as a pre-wash hair mask or just use it as a leave-in conditioner for smooth and silky hair.
Alleviating Inflammation
Calming irritated and inflamed skin is one of the widely-known aloe vera benefits. Aloe vera gel is rich in anti-fungal and anti-inflammatory properties that helps to diminish redness, infection, rashes and itchiness. Your scalp is an extension of your facial skin, and so using aloe vera for hair can also help soothe itching and flaking in the scalp.
Helps Wane Dark Spots
Aloe vera contains various vitamins, enzymes, minerals and amino acids which significantly improves the health of your skin and scalp. It can fade acne scars, blemishes and dark spots and accelerate skin cell regeneration giving you flawless beautiful skin.
Good For Your Health
Powered with antioxidants , aloe vera has innumerable benefits. When consumed fresh and in moderation, it can control blood pressure and sugar levels. It can also boost metabolism and improve digestive health when taken in the morning on an empty stomach.
To make pure aloe vera gel, take one aloe leaf and wash it thoroughly. Cut its ragged sides, peel the outer green cover and use a spoon to extract the white aloe pulp. Blend it with other ingredients or juice it and apply directly over irritated areas.
Whisk It With Hibiscus
Take 4 to 5 hibiscus flowers and leaves in a grinder. Pour four tablespoons of aloe vera juice or one tablespoon of aloe vera pulp and blend it to make it a fine mixture. Apply it to your scalp and strands and leave it for 45 minutes. Wash off with a mild shampoo and follow it up with a conditioner. Hibiscus and aloe vera are potent ingredients to prevent hair fall and nourish your scalp. Use once a week for long and luxurious hair.
Add Essential Oil
Mix a few drops of tea tree oil or neem oil with two tablespoons of pure aloe vera gel and apply this mask on your scalp. Leave for 45 minutes and wash it off with a mild shampoo. Aloe and tea tree oil have antibacterial and antifungal properties that can curb dandruff and treat itchiness and flaking.
Nourish The Skin
To nourish dry skin, take a few slices of cucumber, one tablespoon of pure aloe vera gel and one teaspoon of honey. Blend and apply the smooth paste to your skin for 20 min. Wash off with warm water and pat dry. Honey and cucumber soothe dry and dehydrated skin and nourishes it from within.
Rejuvenate Your Skin
Aloe vera gel can be used as a moisturiser, night cream and dark spot corrector. Take a spoonful of aloe vera gel and apply a thick layer on your face. Let it absorb in the skin and wash off if needed.
What Does Aloe Vera Do To Your Skin?
Aloe vera can deeply nourish your skin and make it soft and smooth. Aloe vera gel for skin is highly recommended to treat conditions like acne, eczema, sunburn and dryness.
Is Sleeping With Aloe Vera On Your Face Good?
One of the widely known aloe vera uses is skin cell repair. So, there is no harm in using aloe vera gel on your face and keeping it overnight. You can use it as a night cream and wash it off the next morning. However, if you are using it for the first time make sure to do a patch test before leaving it on your skin overnight.
Which Aloe Vera Gel Is Best For Hair?
Using freshly extracted aloe vera for hair is the best. Using packaged aloe vera gel is also an option. Although you must ensure that they contain only pure aloe vera and are free from preservatives, colours and chemicals.
Are Aloe Vera Drinks Healthy?
The aloe vera benefits are not limited to your skin. They are rich in antioxidants and help in lowering oxidative stress on your body. So, aloe vera drinks are healthy and safe to consume. However, you must drink it in moderation and after consulting your doctor.