Aloe has been known in the cosmetic industry as an effective treatment for pimple and dry flaky skin. It contains healing and soothing properties to help heal sunburned skin no wonder a lot of sunscreens use aloe as one of the active ingredients. Making your own aloe vera moisturizer at home is very easy and you don't have to worry about harsh chemicals that can cause allergic reactions to your skin. If you want a simple moisturizer, you can mix one part of raw aloe vera gel to one part of mineral or distilled water. Heat this mixture in a double broiler until it forms into a cream. This is great for dry, sore or sunburned skin. You can apply it on your elbows, knees or any rough skin in your body.
An aloe vera moisturizer is also great when used as an anti-aging cream. We all know how expensive anti-aging products are and most of them do not really work. We get carried away by advertisements and we just end up throwing away our hard-earned money and being disappointed. To make your own at home, you need:
-1 tbsp. Aloe Vera gel
- 1 tbsp. beeswax
- 2 tbsp. lanolin
- 2 tbsp. rose water
- 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 to 3 drops of essential oil (lavender, orange, lemon or rose)
Combine the lanolin and beeswax together, melt them in the microwave for about 30 to 40 seconds. Mix the olive oil and aloe vera gel in a large bowl using a wire whisk. The aloe will help hydrate the skin, it also contains plumping agents to keep the skin looking young. With regular use, your wrinkles will be less visible. Combine the two mixtures together with the use of a rubber spatula. Beat until you get a very smooth consistency. Add the rose water and the essential oil. Keep beating until the aloe vera moisturizer is thick and creamy.
1. Your foundation will look only as good as the skin underneath. To get an even, smooth look, cleanse and exfoliate regularly.
2. If you have sensitive skin and are prone to allergic reactions make sure you test new cosmetics on a small patch either on the inside of your arm or your neck. If after 24 hours you don't have a reaction it is safe to use the product.
3. If you have pimple or find you cannot use any skin care products without getting an allergic reaction or dry itchy skin, make an appointment with a dermatologist.
4. Use mascara sparingly. Using too much will make your eyelashes stick together and form into blobs. Dip your brush only once to do both eyes making sure you twist, not pump the brush.
5. No matter how tempting it might be to drop into bed after being out late, don't do it. Your skin will thank you if you remove all traces of makeup and apply your skin care cream before going to bed.
6. Take care of the skin around your neck as well as your face by applying moisturizer. This is a delicate area which is quick to show wrinkles.
7. Cosmetics do not last forever and using old products can cause irritations. Here are some guidelines:
* Foundation - 1 year
* Concealer - 1 year
* Powder - 2 years
* Mascara - 3 months
* Lipstick - 1 year
* Eye pencil - 1 year
* Eye Shadow - 1 year
* Powder Blush - 2 years
* Cream Blush - 6 months
* Moisturizer - 1 year
* Eye Cream - 1 year
* Sun Screen - l year
©2005 Sheila Dicks
Sheila Dicks is an Image and Wardrobe consultant who teaches women how to dress to suit their body type and look slimmmer. You can reach her at http://www.sheilasfashionsense.com to download her ebook, "Image Makeovers" and get "How to Build a Wardrobe" ebook free.