STER-INGREDIËNT
What is it?
Aloe vera is a succulent that originates in the Middle East and thrives best in dry soil and a desert-like climate. You will most often find this green perennial in gardens, flower beds and along roadsides in the Antilles, the Canary Islands, Central America and around the Mediterranean, as well as in Dutch garden centres. In the Netherlands it grows perfectly well indoors too.
What does it do?
The clear gel from the plump, upright leaves is a wonderful way to cool and calm skin that has been burnt by the sun, and to ease other skin and hair concerns as well. The gel cools, calms and hydrates, and also helps to support the skin’s natural renewal. Because it absorbs so quickly and easily, it is often used as an aftersun, such as the Aloe Vera Gel by Standard Procedure and the Aloe Vera Gel with Mint by Ligne St. Barth.
Who is it for?
Aloe vera gel also has antibacterial properties. This natural remedy contains a blend of soothing compounds that can reach the deepest layers of the skin. If you have a small wound from acne, from shaving or a scratched mosquito bite, apply the cool gel to the area. Thanks to its active compounds, it helps wounds to heal and helps prevent scarring. The Tolerance Recovery Cream by Natura Bissé combines a lovely blend of arnica, prickly pear, rosa mosqueta and organic aloe vera to calm and strengthen sensitive facial skin.
How to use it
You can break off one of the lower leaves and cut it open, letting the pure gel drip out. It does have a bitter scent and taste and may stain clothing. To avoid this, you can apply the pure Aloe Gel by Santa Maria Novella for face and body directly to the skin.
Hydration for hair
Because aloe vera is able to heal itself, a thin film forms over the cut in the leaf within seconds, sealing in moisture. The sap has that same soothing effect on the skin, and in a shampoo such as the Cleansing Crème for Moisture & Control by Oribe it helps keep hair hydrated from within.
Even better ice-cold
Try keeping a product with aloe vera in the fridge. In summer the cool gel not only offers extra relief from heat and sunburn, it also helps soothe itchy bumps from sun allergy, eczema or psoriasis. The Cool Me by AIMX sheet mask contains aloe vera, ceramides and hyaluronic acid, which calm the skin and provide a cooling effect. Taken straight from the fridge, it also gives the skin an instant boost of hydration and leaves the body feeling invigorated.
Keeping it indoors
Place the aloe vera plant in a Mediterranean-style pot in a bright spot. It needs only a little water. When the tips of the leaves turn reddish-brown, your aloe needs watering. The tips will turn green again on their own within a few days. In summer you can also place the pot in a sunny spot on your terrace or in your garden.
