Aloe vera is a popular and easy-to-use natural ingredient for skin beauty. Below are ways to use aloe vera that you can apply at home.
1. Benefits of aloe vera
Aloe vera is a very popular natural ingredient in skin care and beauty thanks to its nutrients and beneficial properties for the skin.
- Moisturizing, softening the skin: Aloe vera contains a large amount of water and polysaccharides that create a protective membrane to retain natural moisture on the skin surface. Especially for dry skin, aloe vera quickly restores and softens the skin.
- Anti-inflammatory, reduces irritation: Aloe vera contains anti-inflammatory substances such as salicylic acid, along with enzymes and amino acids that can soothe the skin, reduce swelling, redness, and irritation. Aloe vera is very useful for cases of sunburn, dermatitis, allergies, or rashes. Aloe vera reduces inflammation and quickly restores skin after damage caused by irritation.
- Antioxidant, prevents aging: Aloe vera contains many important vitamins and minerals such as vitamin C, E, and beta-carotene, all of which are strong antioxidants. These substances neutralize free radicals, which cause skin aging, and protect the skin from harmful environmental factors such as UV rays and pollution. Regular use of aloe vera reduces signs of aging such as wrinkles, sagging skin, increases skin elasticity, and keeps skin youthful for longer.
- Skin regeneration, healing: Aloe vera can promote the process of skin regeneration thanks to substances such as polysaccharides and gibberellin, which help stimulate the production of collagen and elastin. This accelerates the healing of minor skin injuries such as scratches, burns, or acne scars.
- Brightening, evening skin tone: Contains enzymes that help remove dead skin cells, aloe vera promotes the regeneration of new skin cells, reducing darkened skin areas. In addition, the antioxidants in aloe vera also fade dark spots and even out skin tone.
- Protect skin from sun damage: Aloe vera can soothe sunburned skin thanks to its natural cooling properties. Aloe vera is a natural choice to soothe sunburned skin and protect it from the harmful effects of sunlight.
2. How to use aloe vera
After understanding the many benefits of aloe vera, let's look at how to use aloe vera to maximize its effects and provide the best care for your skin.
- Daily moisturizing: Take fresh aloe vera gel from the leaf, make sure to process it properly and wash off the yellow sap under the skin as it can cause irritation. Apply the aloe vera gel to your face and neck. Massage gently until absorbed, then rinse with warm water and pat dry. Fresh aloe vera gel should only be used for 1 - 2 days if stored in the refrigerator. For store-bought aloe vera gel, choose products that do not contain fragrances or chemicals that can irritate the skin.
- Soothe skin after sun exposure: Place aloe vera leaves in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. Cut out the fresh gel and apply it to sunburned areas. Leave aloe vera on the skin for about 15 - 20 minutes, then rinse off with cool water.
- Restore dry skin: Apply aloe vera gel to dry areas such as elbows, knees, etc., wait 10 - 15 minutes, then rinse off. This can deeply nourish the skin and improve dry, rough skin.
- Brighten skin: Mix aloe vera gel with yogurt into a smooth mixture. Apply to the face, massage gently, leave for 15 - 20 minutes, then rinse with warm water. Yogurt contains lactic acid which gently exfoliates, and aloe vera provides moisture, brightens, and smoothens the skin.
Aloe vera is a skincare ingredient with great potential, and its versatile uses make it ideal for daily skincare. Whether it's daily moisturizing or recovery after sunbathing, aloe vera can provide your skin with comprehensive care, giving it long-lasting moisture, health, and radiance.
However, for those with sensitive skin, it is recommended to do a patch test on a small area before use to ensure it does not cause irritation. Do not use aloe vera gel on infected skin areas. Although aloe vera is gentle, it should not be overused. Overuse of aloe vera can thin the skin and make it more prone to dehydration.