Easy-peasy aloe vera gel DIY for your hair and skin

Aloe vera is a versatile ingredient for self-care and finds its use in multiple ways. Ayurveda regards the plant to be a “hydra succulent”, as it always saps the water from the surrounding plants! Being a rich source of hydration, it is also enriched with multivitamins and minerals that repair the skin and hair.

Here are some easy DIYs and hacks that can help you reap all its beauty benefits:

For healthy, lustrous, and thick hair: Mix 1 tbsp of Aloe vera gel with 2 tsp of Castor oil, mix the two, and apply on the scalp. Leave it on for about an hour and do a hair wash as usual. This combination helps with providing intense nourishment to the hair follicles and nutrients for healthy hair growth.

For itchy, dandruff-prone scalp: Mix 1 tbsp of Aloe vera gel with overnight soaked Methi seeds, and blend the two together. Apply the mixture on the scalp like a hair pack and leave it on for 30 mins then rinse off as usual.

For shiny, hydrated and soft hair: Blend Aloe vera pulp with pure Rosewater, strain, and transfer this into a spray bottle.Spritz this over the hair, by sectioning it into divisions covering the length of the hair, and leaving it on overnight. Shampoo as usual and experience the benefits of this overnight hair hack.

For dull and dry skin: Mix 1 tbsp Aloe vera gel with a capsule of vitamin E and add a few drops of Neroli oil. Use this mixture to massage the face and experience glowing skin. Store the remaining in a jar which can be used for 3-5 days when refrigerated.

For lightening acne scars: Mix 1 tbsp Aloe vera gel with 2 tsp of Honey. Use this like a gel mask on the face for 10-15 mins and rinse off to reveal refreshed and lighter skin. Honey is moisturising and Aloe vera fades acne scars over a period of time.

For repairing acne-prone skin: Mix 1 tbsp of Aloe vera gel with 1 tsp of Moringa oil and 1 tsp of Neem oil, and blend the mixture. Use this to massage the skin 1-2/week and leave it on for 30 mins then wipe it off. You may follow up with a clay-based mask after for best results.

For minimising pores and skin tightening: Make a face pack with ½ tbsp Chickpea flour (Besan), a pinch of Turmeric, and 2-3 tsp of Aloe vera gel. Apply a thin layer and leave it on until semi-dry.

For de-tanning and underarm lightening: Make a scrub with 2 tsp Orange peel, 1 tsp Sugar, and 1 tbsp Aloe vera gel. This scrub has coarse granules best suited for the body, feet and underarms. Massage the mixture in gentle and circular motions and rinse it off.