Aloe vera, or the juice from the aloe plant, has long been touted for its many health-enhancing, medicinal and beautifying effects. This magical elixir is even perfect for creating a natural and inexpensive cream to soothe dry skin right in the comfort of your own home.
Aloe Vera Gel
Squeeze about 6 oz. of 100 percent pure aloe vera gel into a small bowl.
Add 1 tsp. sweet almond oil or mineral oil to the aloe vera gel.
Add a drop or two of essential oil for a scented cream. Lavender, frankincense and tea tree oils are great complements for aloe vera.
Mix the aloe vera and oil well. The combination of ingredients should turn a creamy white color (or another color depending on the scent you used).
Cleanse your face and pat dry.
Gently dab a bit of cream on your forehead, cheeks, nose, chin, and neck. Gently massage into your skin in an upwards motion.
Store your extra cream in a small jar with a lid for freshness.
Aloe Leaf
Remove an aloe leaf from the plant using a sharp knife.
Trim off the thorny edges and then slice the leaf across its width.
Use a small spoon to transfer the aloe vera gel from the leaf to your mixing bowl.
Go back to Step 2 above.