10 beauty and skin benefits of Aloe Vera, the"plant of immortality"

Aloe Vera, also known as the ‘plant of immortality’ by the ancient Egyptians, was used for its healing properties since ages. Aloe Vera is known for its succulent or fleshy leaves.It contains phytochemicals and other nutrients which are beneficial for hair, health and skin.

First time I've reached for Aloe Vera was during summer, after beach when my nose got a bit red from to much sun exposure.It helped me restore my skin and to heal minors sun burns.I  am sure some of you did the same, and by now everyone heard or used at least one time Aloe Vera, as this plant is listed as an ingredient in many of your personal care products (shaving foam, daily creams and lotions, make-up, hair products, soap).
Aloe Vera is sold as gel, powder and juice. You can also make fresh aloe juice at home by cutting the leaf and extracting the aloe gel from it but that is a bit way to complicated for me, so I prefer to buy the gel, as pure as possible.
You can buy the gel from many health food stores and pharmacies. I did bought mine from a local Dutch vitamin and supplement shop, called DE TUINEN. For me, this gel works amazing and has 98% purity. DE TUINEN has a large variety of natural and organic skin care, and their products always have premium quality. If you live in The Netherlands you should give it a try.

Aloe Vera consist as much as 75 nutrients, 20 minerals, 12 vitamins, 18 amino acids and 200 active enzymes. Aloe Vera contains Vitamin A, B1, B2, B6 and B12, Vitamin C and E, folic acid and Niacin. Minerals found in Aloe Vera include copper, iron, sodium, calcium, zinc, potassium, chromium, magnesium and manganese.
Sounds like a smart -ass plant with amazing healing properties, isn't it ?
Why do I love this plant? Well, just because it has anti-allergic properties useful in the treatment of various skin diseases like eczema, psoriasis, itchy skin and so on.
Aloe Vera is not used just external on your skin, but also in diet but because is out of my expertise to talk about the benefits of this plant in diet, I will only mention the external benefits for skin.

1.It treats sunburn. It acts as a protective layer on the skin and helps replenish its moisture.It cools-off,it calms and it heals skin affected by minor sun burns.It works every time for me!

2.It acts as a moisturizer. Aloe moisturizes the skin without leaving behind a greasy film, so it`s perfect for anyone with an oily skin complexion. Also for oily skin, the gel works amazing as a primer for mineral based make-up.

3.Aloe Vera is soothing and can reduce skin inflammations, blistering and itchiness,while helping the skin to heal more rapidly. Aloe is used to promote the healing process of chronic skin problems,such as psoriasis and eczema.

4.Aloe Vera seems to be able to speed wound healing by improving blood circulation through the area and preventing cell death around a wound. It also appears that aloe gel has properties that are harmful to certain types of bacteria and fungi. This must be the main reason for cosmetic companies to use Aloe Vera extract in their products such as makeup, tissues, moisturizers, soaps, sunscreens, incense, shaving cream, or shampoos.

5.Aloe Vera  is helpful in curing blisters, insect bites and other allergic reactions as well. Aloe Vera helps to remove dead cells and replenishes it with new ones, giving the skin a radiant glow. It contains a range of anti-oxidants like beta carotene,vitamins C and E that will improve the natural firmness of skin.

6.Aloe Vera helps to keep the skin hydrated and it also improves the skin’s elasticity, therefore minimizing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

7.Aloe Vera lightens the skin and helps to moderate and diminish sun tanning and hyper pigmentation.

8.Aloe Vera gel contains two hormones: Auxin and Gibberellins. These two hormones provide wound healing and anti-inflammatory properties that reduce skin inflammation. Giberellin in Aloe Vera acts as a growth hormone stimulating the growth of new cells. It allows the skin to heal quickly and naturally with minimal scarring. Ideal for sensitive skin, breakouts,and rosacea.It does not completely cure the acne but, it will reduces inflammation and redness of the skin to a great extent.

9.Once applied,the gel of Aloe Vera it will releases natural vitamins and enzymes on the skin to produce a deep moisturizing effect that helps to treat and restore its pH balance. The gel will soften your skin and supply oxygen to your cells, strengthening the tissue to create vibrant skin.

10.Aloe Vera gel can be used as an natural aftershave treatment as its healing properties can treat small cuts caused by shaving.

The benefits of this stuff seem to be endless.

How to use the Aloe Vera gel, in case is not very clear :)

Apply a thin layer of Aloe Vera gel over your face and allow it to dry for at least 30 mins. Remove the gel with warm water and a clean washcloth. You can also use lotions with 30-50% aloe juice as a toner for additional moisture, calming and healing effects.
To remove or diminish an failed fake tan: Apply a paste of Aloe Vera gel and lemon juice on the affected area. Leave it on for 10 mins and wash it off.
Face/body scrub, mix Aloe Vera gel with oatmeal or coffee or brown sugar and few drops of your favorite oil (almond, olive, rice oil). Massage the final mixture gently on the face and leave for 10-15 minutes before washing off with warm water.
For Oily Skin mix the Aloe Vera gel with honey and use it as a facial mask. Leave for 20 minutes and then wash off with warm water.
For Sensitive Skin mix the Aloe Vera gel with yogurt, Rose Oil, apply to the face. Leave for 15 minutes before washing off with warm water.
For Glowing Skin.Turmeric, Aloe Vera, Rose Water, Honey & Milk mix the ingredients and prepare a paste and after, evenly apply to the face and neck and leave for 20 minutes. Wash off with warm water and pat dry to reveal your new glowing skin.

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To receive the maximum benefits from this natural healer, search for products that are as pure as possible and made from non toxic plants. However, even the products labeled 100% pure will have some preservatives, as the only fully-pure Aloe Vera gel comes directly from the plant.Vitamin and supplement shops are good resources for buying a variety of natural products.
If you have any questions, observations, advice or if you know any others skin benefits of Aloe Vera, please leave you opinion in the comment section !

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