These five recipes can target just about any skin issue you've got, from run-of-the-mill dryness to irritation to oxidative stress.
1. Aloe vera and honey mask, for skin-soothing.
Adding honey to your aloe mix can calm redness, reduce scarring, and moisturize the skin. Just be sure to add less honey than aloe (a 1:2 honey-to-aloe ratio might be best) or the mixture will be rather sticky. If honey's not your thing, another great ingredient for soothing inflammation is oatmeal, it can "suppress pro-inflammatory chemicals, called cytokines, as well as histamine," says board-certified dermatologist.
2. Aloe vera and apple cider vinegar mask, for gentle exfoliation.
Aloe is already naturally exfoliating (it contains beta-hydroxy acid and salicylic acid, which will help to gently exfoliate the skin. ACV is also naturally exfoliating, but it might be helpful to pair it with a soothing agent like aloe. If you don't have ACV on hand, another great option is adding a physical exfoliator, like some sugar or coffee grounds, as these granules can gently remove debris and pair great with soothing aloe.
3. Aloe and turmeric mask, for skin-brightening.
To target skin discoloration, you'll want to have this brightening turmeric mask at the ready. Because aloe is a dark spot remedy in and of itself, adding turmeric to the mix can give this mask quite the skin-brightening boost.Don't have turmeric? Citrus fruits can do the trick:
4. Aloe and coconut oil mask, for moisturizing.
For dry, flaking skin, coconut oil is your go-to add. Coconut oil is a great natural moisturizer for the skin. When paired with aloe, it's a hydrating powerhouse of a mask. But proceed with caution if you're experiencing breakouts: Coconut oil can lead to breakouts, so be careful if you're acne-prone.
