We’re Buying An Aloe Vera Plant Right Now!

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Most of us have tried aloe vera, probably when you were smothering your skin in it after a long day in the sun. But aloe vera isn’t just for sunburn, it actually has MAJOR skin benefits and you should use it all year round. The cactus-like, green plant is literally bursting with goodness; not only will it make your skin glow and your hair seriously smooth, but it can also soothe burns and cleanse your body! The translucent gel is made up of 96% water, is packed with 18 different forms of amino acids, and contains vitamins A, B, C, and E! The good news is, even if you don’t have an aloe vera plant, you can buy pure Aloe Vera gel for less than $10. Here’re all the amazing things it can do:

For your skin: When applied directly onto your skin or in a mask, aloe vera is crazy hydrating and will increase your skin’s water content without making it feel greasy. It also keeps free radicals from messing with your glow game while softening blemishes and soothing swelling, making it ideal for acne-prone skin.

For sunburn: Best applied directly from the plant to the skin, aloe vera can help soothe redness if you’ve been in the sun for too long. It’s also full of antioxidants and provides a protective layer so that the skin can retain moisture, while the glycoproteins help reduce inflammation and relieve pain.

For hair: Aloe vera has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties that’ll help rebalance your scalp’s pH levels, reducing dandruff and boosting hair growth. It also hydrates dry hair and split ends, leaving it super soft. You can buy a mask or make your own by mixing aloe vera with coconut oil and honey.

For boosted metabolism: A glass of aloe vera water – which is full of vitamin B – helps boosts your metabolism while curbing your appetite. It’s also a natural laxative, which leads to better digestion.

Aloe Vera and Honey Facemask DIY

This antibacterial mask removes dead skin cells and leaves your skin feeling fresh and hydrated. Start by slicing off a 3-inch chunk of aloe vera leaf, and then cut it in half lengthways, scraping out the gel into a bowl (or use one tablespoon of pure aloe vera gel). Mix this with one tablespoon of honey. Apply it to your face and leave for 15 minutes then rinse with warm water.