ALOE: YOUR SKIN’S BFF

In this hot and humid weather your skin can bear very little, treat it with aloe – a multipurpose natural healer – that helps you through the season.

Aloe, the plant which has earned a place in almost every household is the crux of the beauty industry which includes both skincare and hair care products. Since ages it is known to treat several diseases, and as far as skincare is concerned it helps in exfoliating, reducing acne, blemishes and brightening the complexion. Its gel is rich in water and antioxidants and therefore it has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial qualities.

Benefits for the skin:

1. Moisturises.
2. Helps in getting rid of acne.
3. Reduces pigmentation.
4. Heal sunburns.
5. Acts as an anti-ageing agent.

Cleopatra was believed to use aloe vera daily as a part of her beauty regimen. Its regular topical application enhances the glow of the skin, and makes it soft and supple. Moreover, it is also known to soothe sunburns and heal wounds faster thereby removing the dead and unwanted skin.

DIY skincare recipe:

Aloe vera gel and lemon juice have a great beauty benefit. Both help minimise stretch marks, reduce dark spots, blemishes, and help in healing acne and acne scars.

Method:

1. Take an aloe vera leaf and cut it from the base.
2. Wash the leaf under running water.
3. Squeeze out the gel into a bowl.
4. Mash the aloe gel with 2-3 drops of lemon juice and prepare a face mask.
5. Apply the mask on the face and neck. Massage lightly, avoiding the eyes.
6. Let it sit on your skin for 15-20 minutes.
7. Rinse with lukewarm water.
8. Pat your skin dry with a towel and apply moisturiser.
9. Apply this mask at least thrice a week to even out the skin tone, prevent breakouts and brighten the complexion.

Our recommendation: Jhelum Loves Divinity Cream, infused with pure aloe gel, which nourishes, hydrates, soothes and repairs to reveal soft, smooth, visibly clear and glowing complexion.

Expert consulted: Dr Soni Gupta is a dermatologist, Max Hospital.