SkinMDNatural.com: Aloe Vera the Natural Skin Care Wonder

Aloe vera is no new skin care secret. Its use dates back as far as the 4th
century B.C. when Greek doctors used it for its healing properties and
Cleopatra used it as part of her beauty routine. Egyptians even referred to
it as the plant of immortality.

Aloe vera has a number of uses in the skin care industry. It is often added
to cosmetic products such as lotions and creams that help with anything from
allergies to wrinkles. It is also recommended for the treatment of burns and
bruises. Aloe can be used to help with skin irritations such as rashes and
insect bites. Many people have even seen benefits of using aloe on tough
skin care conditions like eczema and psoriasis.

Why is aloe vera so beneficial to skin care? The plant itself contains five
naturally occurring anti-inflammatory agents, nearly 20 amino acids,
minerals, vitamins, and enzymes making it a powerful healer. It is also said
that it aids in cellular regeneration by increasing circulation and the
exchange of oxygen between cells, helping skin to appear more youthful.

When shopping for a skin care product that contains aloe it can become a
little confusing as there are many types of aloe vera plants. There are over
350 species to be exact. One of the highest rated species of aloe is the
aloe barbadensis miller plant. When checking ingredient labels check for
aloe barbadensis as one of the top ingredients.

If you enjoy making your own natural skin care products rather than
purchasing them consider growing an aloe plant. They grow well outdoors when
planted in full sun, or light shade and shouldn’t be planted where there is
a chance of freezing due to frost tenderness. Aloe plants can also be grown
indoors as long as they are given sufficient light.

A very easy aloe vera skin care recipe to try is this aloe and oats
exfoliating scrub below.

Ingredients

1 tablespoon finely ground almonds
1 tablespoon finely ground oats
1 tablesoon of honey


Directions

1. Combine all ingredients in a bowl stirring well until mixed.
2. Apply to the face and neck using small circular motions
3. Rinse face with warm water and dry

Tips

To get fresh aloe gel from a home grown or store bought plant use a sharp
knife to cute the leave close to the plant. Then cut all along the length of
the leaf and peel it back to expose the pulp inside. Using a spoon scrap the
inside to remove the gel.



Amber Humphries, an expert author focusing on naturally healthy skin care,
contributes articles for 21st Century Formulations and their product line,
Skin MD Natural (http://www.skinmdnatural.com). For more info go to
http://www.skinmdnatural.com/dry-skin-care/