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Aloe Vera Uses for Face Care

By Tiffany Moore

Maybe you have heard of aloe vera is good for fine lines on the face, but skeptical of its wrinkle-erasing powers. Or, maybe you have facial marks and spots left behind by acne or pimples, and wondering if aloe vera gel can help fade acne scars. It doesn’t really matter what your skin troubles are, because this limitlessly versatile healing plant is a universal beauty remedy that works miracles for a whole variety of skin problems.

Highly favored since ancient times for medicinal purposes, aloe vera is also extensively used in many skin care products as it offers a potent cocktail of antioxidants which can help stimulate healthy cell growth and repair damaged tissues without scarring.

The beauty benefits of aloe vera for the skin are plentiful. For example, the transparent gel like substance that comes from the inner part of the leaf soothes and quickly heals dry cracked skin on heels or hands when applied topically.

The aloe vera plant also boasts amazing age-defying properties. It contains Vitamins A, C, E, well known for their skin nourishing and hydrating abilities, making aloe the perfect moisturizing agent to quench thirsty skin while lightening dark spots and pigmentation commonly associated with mature skin.

In addition to that, aloe is also very good for fading acne scars. Simply rub aloe vera gel several times a day to remove the ugly marks and also prevent future breakouts.

Before anything else, you need to know how to remove the gel from an aloe vera leaf. First, cut a thick and fleshy leaf (mature) from the outer circle of the aloe vera plant, at its base with a knife. Also, cut off the sharp edges (thorns).

Next, chop into mid-sized pieces and soak in a bowl of water overnight. The water will turn pink or light red the next day. Throw away the soaking liquid.

Now you are ready to peel the aloe vera leaf. Hold in one hand and peel off the green outer layer using a knife, making sure to take out only the skin and not the gel. When you are done, scoop out the gel with a spoon. Store in an air tight container and refrigerate to prevent oxidization and spoilage, if not used immediately. It usually stays fresh for as long as 3 months.

How to Use Aloe Vera Gel for Face and Body?

1. If you want a radiantly clear, baby smooth face complexion that will make your best friend drool with envy, then look no further than this gentle homemade exfoliating oatmeal-aloe facial mask.

Combine 1 tablespoon each of aloe vera gel, ground oats, ground almonds, and raw manuka honey in a bowl. Mix all ingredients together until well blended. Spread mixture on clean face and neck, massaging lightly in circular motions. Leave on for a few minutes until it dries before you wash off with lukewarm water.

2. Bring hopelessly dull-looking skin back to life by mixing together equal amounts of aloe vera flesh and brown sugar, and a splash of extra virgin olive oil. Add a few drops of freshly squeezed lemon juice or lime juice for extra natural skin brightening and whitening actions, if you desire.

This polishing body scrub is sure to leave your skin much softer and smoother, and smelling oh so GOOD!

3. For a fabulously frugal yet invigorating facial to perk up tired and moisture-starved skin in summer, use this cooling face mask made from cucumber and aloe vera. It will also do very nicely as a sunburn remedy and will help sunburned skin heal faster.

Blend 2 tablespoons aloe vera gel and ½ small cucumber (peeled and seeds removed) in a food processor until you get a really smooth paste. Apply on your clean face and neck, making sure to avoid the eye area. Wait for 20 minutes or so and then rinse off with cold water.

4. If you have a uncontrollable spotty problem and want something that really heals acne naturally while moisturizing, I highly recommend this purifying seaweed-honey-aloe home facial. Why? Nutrient-rich seaweed has been found to provide substantial anti-bacterial effects on Propionbacterium acnes, the bacteria that causes acne.

In a bowl, mix 1 tablespoon organic seaweed powder (kelp powder) with ½ tablespoon each of aloe vera gel and raw manuka honey. Allow it to stand for about 10 minutes. Smear aloe vera acne mask on your face. Relax and rinse off using lukewarm water. Use 2-3 times a week for healthier-looking, blemish free skin.

You can buy seaweed powder at most health food stores, locally or online.

5. Did you know aloe vera makes an excellent facial cleanser, and is especially great for soothing and calming dry sensitive skin? It gently cleanses away impurities and grime without stripping away your skin's natural oils, for an ultra clean, supple and refreshing feel.

Mix 1 large aloe vera leaf (gel only), 1 cup papaya flesh, 1 tablespoon raw honey, 1 teaspoon plain yogurt in food processor.

To use, take a small amount of your homemade aloe vera cleanser and gently massage onto skin. Rinse well.

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