We’ve all know of it, and we all know it's the go to for sunburns, cuts and scrapes. However It isn't the first thing that comes up when people talk about skin care outside of the Summer months.
Considering how we love all things natural here at Shia, we are definitely taken with Aloe Vera! On our journey of discovery we've uncovered some surprising and obvious skin care benefits of this amazing household plant.
Here's the Skinny!
Outside of its medicinal purposes, Aloe Vera does wonders for your skin! Aloe Vera Moisturizes/hydrates, fights acne, great for sensitive skin, and fights aging! Aloe Vera's best kept secrets..... it's the easiest house plant to maintain and you can find fresh Aloe for less than $2!
How does Aloe fight Acne?
Aloe Vera contains the hormones, Auxin and Gibberellins.
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Auxin- has anti-inflammatory properties and helps wound healing.
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Gibberellins- is a growth hormone that stimulates new cell growth and helps heal quickly with minimal scaring.
What does all of that mean for Acne?
Acne occurs when there's an increase in bacteria, sebum, even a hormonal reaction. Acne can also be caused by an excess of keratin in the skin known as hyperkeratinization.
Keratin is a key protein that forms the structural material of the skin and can sometimes cause dead skin cells to clump together and block the hair follicles.
Aloe will aid in soothing and repairing skin damage, while minimizing scaring and promote new, healthy cell growth. These hormones makes Aloe great for treating and preventing Acne.
Try making an Aloe Vera Mask:
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Using fresh Aloe cut a 2 inch piece off the leaf
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Cut piece in half and scrap all the gel out with a spoon.
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2T of plain whole fat yogurt
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1/4 C of cucumber
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1T of Jojoba Oil
Blend in a blender or food processor, apply to face, and leave on for 20 minutes.
Anti-aging benefits of Aloe Vera
Aloe Vera is full of Vitamins, Minerals, and Anti-oxidants. All age defying superheroes from Beta Carotene, Vitamin C & E! These gems help improve the skins natural firmness and keeps skin hydrated and moisturized.
Aloe Vera is also said to boost collagen levels in the skin and minimizes wrinkles.
So how does one use this magical plant to prevent pesky wrinkles?
Try making an Aloe Vera Scrub:
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1/2 C Fresh Aloe (blend in blender or food processed)
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1 C Brown Sugar
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2 T Lemon Juice
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Mix all together and apply to clean face & neck, gently rubbing in a circular motion, leave on for about 5 minutes, rinse and pat dry.
The Perfect Moisturizer
Aloe Vera is a great an effective way to moisture and hydrate your skin all year round. Aloe is cooling during the Summer months and soothing during the dryer Winter months.
Although Aloe's gel like consistency may throw you off, it's actually a non-greasy alternative to moisturizing your skin. Whether you have dry, sensitive, even oily skin(perfect for oily skin), it works well!
Tips:
Great primer for those that wear mineral makeup. Helps keep skin from drying out.
Also a great aftershave for the Men in your life. Helps heal small cuts and scaring.
Try making an Aloe Vera Moisturizing Oil:
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1/2 C Fresh Aloe Vera ( blended)
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1 C Avocado, Coconut, Jojoba Oil
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Mix together and apply with cotton ball all over face & neck day or night. Keep in fridge for up to 1 month.
So, get to your local Market and pick up an Aloe Vera Leaf or purchase your own plant to always have this amazing secret weapon on hand always!
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Be comfortable in your skin