If you’ve ever informed yourself about natural skincare, you probably know how versatile and powerful aloe vera is. This powerhouse ingredient can be used for almost any beauty step. And the best thing about it — aloe vera is incredibly easy to grow and take care of. This versatile plant is known for its soothing and healing properties, and because it has a high water content, it can also help you hydrate and nourish your skin. So if you’re looking for DIY beauty products that will make you feel like you’re getting a treatment at a spa — look no further than aloe vera. Here are some of our favorite ways to use it.
Aloe vera gel
Let’s start off with a classic. If you ever had a sunburn or any kind of skin irritation, you know how helpful aloe vera gel can be. But pure and quality aloe vera gel can be incredibly expensive. Luckily, you can make it yourself for only a fraction of the price. To do that, carefully slice open an aloe vera leaf and scoop out the gel using a spoon. Apply the gel directly to your face, massaging it gently into your skin. Aloe vera gel helps to moisturize, calm inflammation, and promote healing, making it a perfect remedy for irritated or sunburned skin. But you can use it even as a moisturizer. When tolerated well, aloe vera gel will leave your face feeling soft, smooth, and refreshed.
Hydrating aloe face mask
Make a revitalizing face mask by combining aloe vera gel with other nutritious ingredients. In a mixing bowl, combine a tablespoon of aloe vera gel and teaspoon of olive oil or squalene oil. Apply the mask to your face evenly, avoiding the eye area, and keep it on for 15-20 minutes. The mask will moisturize your skin deeply, increase collagen synthesis, and create a healthy shine. Rinse the mask off with warm water and tap your face dry with a clean towel. If needed, apply a thin layer of moisturizer afterwards.
Refresh your face with an aloe vera facial toner
Aloe vera can also be used to make a refreshing facial toner that can brighten and tone your skin. In a spray bottle, combine equal parts aloe vera gel and purified water. Add a few drops of witch hazel or rose water for an added boost. After cleansing, shake the toner well to blend the contents and spritz it on your face. The aloe vera toner helps to balance the pH of your skin, tighten pores, and give hydration. Use it as a refreshing pick-me-up during the day or as the final step in your skincare routine.
Fight dark circles and puffiness
A calming aloe vera eye treatment might help with puffiness and dark circles. In a small bowl, combine equal parts aloe vera gel and cucumber juice. Place cotton pads over your closed eyes after dipping them in the mixture. Unwind for 10-15 minutes while the aloe vera and cucumber do their magic. The two of them work together to minimize puffiness, soothe exhausted eyes, and lighten dark circles. After that, gently remove the cotton pads and enjoy the refreshed and restored look of your eyes.
