Aloe vera is a plant long known for its soothing properties, especially when it comes to skin. The succulent leaves of this plant, which is probably native to north Africa, have a cooling and soothing gel inside them that have astringent properties. Though this might sound like it’s a drying agent, an astringent is actually an herb that tightens and contracts tissue and reduces irritation. Because of this action, aloe vera helps stimulate blood to rise to the skin’s surface to promote the healing and quick regeneration of skin cells. Despite being an astringent, the gel can even be used for sensitive skin and it’s also a mild pain killer. Continue reading to learn more about the benefits of an aloe vera face mask.
Benefits of an Aloe Vera Face Mask
Aloe vera is an antibacterial agent and bacteria is one of the factors that can lead to acne. Specifically, a type of bacteria called propionbacterium acnes proliferates when the skin pore is blocked by too much sebum, the oil that lubricates the skin and keeps it hydrated. The enzymes from this bacteria break down the sebum and cause an inflammation that leads to the red pimples of acne.
When the leaves of aloe vera are cut, the gel can be squeezed directly onto the skin. This is the simplest sort of aloe vera face mask. The gel should be left on the skin for about five minutes or so, then rinsed off with warm water. The user might want to use a moisturizer afterwards to make sure the skin remains supple. A user might also want to make a make another type of aloe vera face mask to soothe acne and other skin disorders. Here’s a recipe:
- 3 tsp. of aloe vera juice
- 1 tbs. of aloe vera gel
- The white of one egg
Beat the egg white till soft peaks form. Fold the aloe vera juice and the aloe vera gel into the egg whites and apply to the face.
Let the aloe vera face mask set for about ten minutes, the rinse off with warm water.
The skin should be gently patted dry.
About 4 tablespoons of aloe vera juice can also be mixed with four tablespoons of honey. This can also be applied to the face and left on as an aloe vera face mask from five to 10 minutes, then, again, rinsed off with warm water.
Aloe vera can also be taken internally as a digestive system tonic, though the gel caps or tablets should be bought at the pharmacy. This also helps the health of the skin. Aloe vera also boosts energy levels and is a natural source of vitamin B12, which helps the body absorb iron.