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How to Use Aloe Vera to Make Herbal Cosmetics

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By DiDill
User-Submitted Article
(15 Ratings)
Aloe Vera - close-up of an Aloe Vera Leaf
Aloe Vera - close-up of an Aloe Vera Leaf

Aloe Vera (aloe barbadensis) has, quite appropriately, been called the “first-aid” plant. The sap of this wonder-plant is loaded with a wealth of natural healing properties that are especially beneficial to our skin. Aloe Vera's emollient, moisturizing qualities make it a popular ingredient in cosmetics, sun tan lotions, facials and shaving creams. Read on to learn how to use Aloe Vera to make herbal cosmetics.

From Quick Guide: Aloe Vera Overview
Difficulty: Moderately Easy
Instructions

Things You'll Need:

  • 1 ½ cup warm water
  • 1 cup detergent-free shampoo
  • ¼ cup Aloe Vera gel
  • ¼ cup liquid glycerin
  • 1 ½ tsp. table salt
  • 10-15 drops fragrance oil
  • Food coloring (optional)
  • 1 squeezable bottle

    Make Your Own Aloe Vera Gel

  1. Step 1

    Use a paring knife to slice off the leaf's spikes. Peel off the leaf's outer skin.

  2. Step 2

    Put the peeled Aloe Vera in the blender and blend it to a pulp.

  3. Step 3

    Measure out 1/4 cup of pulp. Crush the Vitamin C tablet to powder (you can use a spoon). Add it to the blended Aloe Vera. Puncture or open the Vitamin E and squeeze the contents into the mixture. Mix the ingredients thoroughly.

  4. Step 4

    Store the gel in a clean jar and refrigerate. Use your Aloe Vera gel as a remedy for irritated skin, cuts, burns or wounds. You can apply it several times a day.

  5. Make a Soothing Aloe Vera Body Oil

  6. Step 1

    Pour all the ingredients into a clean, sterilized bottle.

  7. Step 2

    Shake to mix thoroughly.

  8. Step 3

    Store for up to a month.

  9. Make a Moisturizing Aloe Vera Shampoo

  10. Step 1

    Pour all the ingredients into the bottle and shake to mix well

  11. Step 2

    Wet your hair and apply a liberal amount of the shampoo, working it into a lather.

  12. Step 3

    Leave it in for a few minutes an then rinse it out with cool water. Always shake well before using to ensure the ingredients are thoroughly mixed

  13. Make a Moisturizing Aloe Vera Shower Gel

  14. Step 1

    Pour the water into a bowl. Stir in the shampoo.

  15. Step 2

    Add the rest of the ingredients, mixing well.

  16. Step 3

    Pour into the squeezable bottle.

Tips & Warnings
  • You can buy Aloe Vera leaves from a health food store. Some grocery stores have them in the vegetable section.
  • The Vitamins C and E act as natural preservatives for the Aloe Vera.
  • Fresh Aloe Vera gel has a short shelf life; so you should use it up very quickly.
  • It is always advisable to perform a patch test on your skin before using any herbal treatment. Make sure that you are not allergic to it. Apply a little bit of the Aloe Vera to your inner arm and leave it on for a day or so. If there is any reaction, you should avoid using Aloe Vera.
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