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How to make aloe vera cream for face and hair

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This moisturizing aloe vera cream nourishes and heals your skin and hair.
Enriched with vitamin E and coconut oil, this homemade aloe face cream can easily penetrate the skin, leaving it smooth and hydrated.

Knowing all the benefits of aloe vera for the skin and hair, I wanted to use this plant to make the aloe vera cream. So I cut off one leaf or two and used aloe vera gel straight out of the living plant.

This process of incorporating droplets of aloe vera gel (watery part) in oil (oily part) is called emulsion. To bind water and oil together, we need to use an emulsifier. As I prefer to use natural ingredients, my first choice was lanolin, an effective emollient made from the skin glands of sheep. Lanolin has been commonly used in various skin care products for over a hundred years.

Aloe vera miracle skin cream

How can I preserve all-natural homemade aloe face cream?

This nourishing and rich face cream recipe is easy to apply. However, it is more sensitive to bacteria or contamination. Nevertheless, there are certain adjustments you can make to prolong its shelf life.

  1. Use of vitamin E oil. This fat-soluble vitamin possesses anti-inflammatory properties and helps to support skin health. It is also an antioxidant that protects the oil from going rancid.
  2. Making homemade creams in small batches is a safe way, so you use them well before they have time to expire. 
  3. Use sterilized utensils and jars.
  4. Store-bought aloe vera gel contains some preservatives compare to fresh gel from aloe vera leaf.
  5. Keeping the cream in the fridge also helps keep this aloe cream safe.
  6. Use preservatives that help keep the cream safe from bacteria or microbes.
aloe cream for hair

What ingredients do I need?

Knowing that skin is our largest detoxification organ, and what we put on our skin is absorbed into our body. Therefore, choosing products that are free from toxins and contain natural, nourishing ingredients is essential. 

This includes choosing organic, natural ingredients that are free from harsh chemicals.

I was aiming for a light, easy-to-absorb formula that was good for all skin types that would not leave the skin too oily.

What is Aloe Vera?

Aloe Vera plant is easy to grow medicinal plant that’s been used for thousands of years. It has various health benefits, including treating sunburns and reducing inflammation. It also contains antioxidants and vitamins that can help boost the immune system. Fresh aloe vera can be ingested in juice or gel form, applied topically as a body butter or ointment, or used in shampoos, soaps, and other DIY aloe vera skincare products.

I keep my aloe plants on the windowsill and use them on mild burns or sunburns. It is handy and highly effective. I use fresh aloe leaves, press the gel, and use aloe vera gel directly on the burn or abrasion. Its healing properties are immediately visible after a few applications. It’s best kept in the fridge, but you can keep the aloe vera gel at room temperature for a few days. I also keep this burn gel for months in the refrigerator.

Aloe namely boosts collagen and helps to fight bacteria which is very useful in wound and scars treatment (1)

While the easy absorption of aloe vera makes its gel an ideal ingredient for oily skin, aloe can also seal the skin’s moisture and serve as a regular moisturizer for dry skin. I love to use it in toners too.

Aloe vera may also help the inflammatory form of acne on the face and body. (2). One could also use it to treat inflammation in the mouth, like in this natural homemade mouthwash.

Coconut oil

This excellent dry skin moisturizer also possesses anti-inflammatory properties and may help to treat acne or heal wounds. Alternatively, use this aloe vera oil that will multiply the effect of aloe vera in this recipe. Sweet almond oil would also work in this lotion recipe.

Emulsifying agent – Lanolin

Lanolin is a common emulsifying agent in skin care products and pharmaceutical industries. It is a waxy substance derived from sheep’s wool, giving it emulsifying properties. You can also use emulsifying wax nf as a substitute for lanolin.

Natural preservative- Leucidal Liquid SF

Leucidal Liquid SF is a natural preservative made up of lactic acid bacteria that have been fermented with the plant extract, Leuconostoc kimchii. This preservative has antimicrobial properties that help to protect against bacteria, mold, and yeast growth in cosmetic products. It is safe for use in leave-on and rinse-off products and can be used at concentrations up to 2%.

Sweet orange essential oil

It is pressed from orange peels and possesses a fresh, uplifting orange aroma. It is also effective in dissolving grease and oil. The lavender essential oil also works great in this recipe. However, avoid using essential oils if you have sensitive skin.

DIY Aloe face cream recipe

First step: Make aloe vera gel

Cut off the outer leaves of aloe at the base of the plant. Wash it well under cool running water to remove any remaining latex residue. Dry the aloe leaves with a paper towel.

Use a sharp knife to remove the spine edges on both sides. Next, use a vegetable peeler to cut the top and bottom green layers off carefully. Finally, you will get the pure transparent gel in the middle. 

If you are using store-bought aloe gel, you can skip this step.

cutting aloe vera leaf

Second step: Whip the gel.

Add the aloe into an immersion blender and blend the gel until it is homogenous; add vitamin E, leucidal, and essential oil and set aside.

blending aloe vera gel to make homemade face toner
watery part of aloe vera cream made of aloe vera gel

Third step: Melt the oils.

In the double boiler, gently melt beeswax, coconut oil, and lanolin. Let it cool in the fridge until solidified.

Fourth step: Whip it.

Once the mixture is solidified, you will need to use a hand blender to whip it into a creamy mixture. 

beeswax is one to the ingredients in homemade aloe vera cream
adding lanolin to the oily mixture when making aloe vera cream

Fifth step: Merge both parts

Use the hand blender in one hand and slowly add the aloe vera mixture into a creamy part. Blend it thoroughly and slowly.

Stop the hand mixer in between and use a spatula to remove the cream around the sides. Be patient as this step of stopping, mixing, and using a spatula takes around 10-15 minutes till the mixture is smooth and desired consistency is reached. 

oily part of emulsion when solidified - process of making aloe vera cream

Sixth step: Transfer to a sterilized jar.

Transfer the cream to a sterilized container with a lid and refrigerate.

mixing the emulsion of aloe vera gel and coconut oil with hand mixer

making aloe vera cream with coconut oil

Uses of aloe vera face cream recipe for skin

Moisturizer and homemade face and hands cream

If you suffer from dry skin, consider swapping your regular moisturizer for your face for this aloe cream. It helps to seal moisture in, especially after a bath. 

After sun lotion

This aloe cream is very effective in healing minor burns or sunburns as it helps soothe the skin if applied three times a day on affected areas. This homemade face cream can be used as an after-sun lotion.

Healing cream

Its healing properties are significant; you’ll need to use it gently on affected areas if you are cut or bruised.

For eczema and psoriasis

Make the cream if you are an eczema sufferer, you might appreciate its moisturizing effect on dry and itchy skin associated with eczema.

Its anti-inflammatory properties might help with itchiness and information when you have psoriasis (3) This cream will keep your skin feeling moistured and healed.

Cuticle cream

Using this lotion on your cuticles may be a good idea as after application, it will be easier to push back.

homemade aloe vera cream for hair and skin

Uses of aloe vera cream for hair

  1. Aloe vera and coconut oil make a wonderful hair moisturizer that revitalizes your hair and promotes shiny hair and healthy cell growth. Use just a small quantity (1 teaspoon) and gently massage into hair from the midsection towards the ends. The best is to use it once a week.
  2. Aloe Vera contains vitamin B12 and folic acid that prevent your hair from falling out. (4)
  3. due to its ability to increase blood circulation, aloe vera promotes hair growth (5) Use the aloe vera to regrow your hair.
  4. Itchy scalp and flaking skin called dandruff very well respond to aloe vera. This study (6) found that aloe vera contains anti-inflammatory properties that help to ease scalp inflammation. Start with a tiny aloe cream and gently massage it to your scalp. 
  5. This aloe cream can also be used as a hair mask for its super nourishing effect. Leave it for 1 hour and wash it with shampoo. If you suffer from exceptionally dry or damaged hair, leave it overnight. It will nourish and soften your hair.
How long does homemade aloe vera cream last?


This cream will keep for a couple of months at room temperature. If you use the preservative, the cream can last up to 6 months. To extend the shelf life store a small amount in the bathroom for use and the remaining amount in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Also, the use of vitamin E, and powdered vitamin C or 400 International Units (IU) increase its shelf life.

Yield: 100 ml

how to make aloe vera cream for face and hair

aloe vera cream

Enriched with vitamin E, coconut oil and aloe vera gel this homemade cream can easily penetrate into your dry and sensitive skin leaving it smooth and deeply moisturized.

Active Time 30 minutes
Additional Time 10 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Difficulty Medium

Instructions

  1. Cut off the outer leaves of aloe at the base of the plant. Wash it well under cool running water to remove any remaining latex residue. Dry the aloe leaves with a paper towel. Use a sharp knife to remove the spine edges on both sides. Next, use a vegetable peeler to cut the top and bottom green layers off carefully. Finally, you will get the pure transparent gel in the middle. If you are using store-bought aloe gel, you can skip this step.
  2. Add the aloe into an immersion blender and blend the gel until it is homogenous; add vitamin E, leucidal, and essential oil and set aside.
  3. In the double boiler, gently melt beeswax, coconut oil, and lanolin. Let it cool in the fridge until solidified.
  4. Once the mixture is solidified, you will need to use a hand blender to whip it into a creamy mixture. 
  5. Use the hand blender in one hand and slowly add the aloe vera mixture into a creamy part. Blend it thoroughly and slowly. Stop the hand mixer in between and use a spatula to remove the cream around the sides. Be patient as this step of stopping, mixing, and using a spatula takes around 10-15 minutes till the mixture is smooth and desired consistency is reached. 
  6. Transfer the cream to a sterilized container with a lid and refrigerate.

Notes

You can replace the aloe vera plant gel and use the store-bought aloe vera gel instead.

Did you make this project?

Please leave a comment on the blog

Vladka Merva on July 30th, 2020

15 Comments on “How to make aloe vera cream for face and hair”

  1. Buenos días.quw sucede si no le aplicó la lanolina o porque otro producto se puede sustituir? Gracias

    Reply
  2. I will get the materials and make sure it’s done
    Thanks to Simply beyond herbs
    Thanks to Google
    God bless you

    Reply
  3. So many have no clue that shampoos that grow your hair faster and longer (obviously with no sulfates, no parabens, no DEA) are a thing. People now may enjoy longer hair and achieve more options. Certainly worth checking out.
    When you’re going over alopecia, hair damage, preventing skin disorders, fast hair growth, hair care generally, very similar principles come to mind.
    For the most part, you should try to steer clear of hair treatments and products that contain chemicals like parabens, DEA or sulfates.
    What’s beneficial for your hair is healthy for your skin all the same.
    For obvious reasons your content on this page is spot on for so many reasons. It stays away from the accustomed traps and traps too many fall into: getting defective alternatives. Thank you!

    https://www.myblog.com

    Reply
    • Thanks for the recipe! Very nice.

      Can I substitute beeswax and coconut oil with mango butter and Shea butter?

      Thank you!

      Reply
      • Hi Cynthia,
        Yes, you can substitute beeswax and coconut oil with mango butter and shea butter, however the texture, properties and scent will change. Most likely it will be softer and might require additional stabilizers like candelilla wax if you prefer a thicker consistency.

        Reply
  4. HI, mine didn’t get creamy, coconut oil fraccionated isn’t always liquid? or the one in the video it’s regular coconut oil? can I use the regular one? And do you have any replacement for lanolin? Thank you so much!

    Reply
    • HI Ximena, I prefer the fractionated as it is less greasy but you can use the regular coconut oil instead.
      Lanolin keeps the skin hydrated and acts in the same time as an emulsifier. YOu can use Lecithin from soy instead which is multifunctional natural emulsifier.

      Reply
  5. I made this using Aloe Vera Gel. I put a small amount in my hair and massaged into the scalp and left on for several hours hoping to soften my hair, as it is very dry on the ends. It honestly took two washes to get the oiliness out of my hair–the part that is not typically dry or oily. I LOVE this for use on my skin, although it doesn’t spread very easily unless I rub it in my hands really well prior to trying to spread it. Feels great on dry lips and skin. Thank you!

    Reply
    • Hi Linda, thank you for your feedback!
      When you apply this cream on your hair you have to use just very small quantity (1 teaspoon) and gently massage into hair from the midsection towards the ends or just ends if they are dry. Not all over your hair and scalp.

      Reply
  6. Just a note.
    Fresh Aloe containes latex in-between the flesh and skin membrane. Latex is a toxic substance and some people are allergic to it.
    You need to purge the latex out before using.
    To do this, simply cut the leaf from the plant and put it in a glass of water, cut side down. After 15min pour out the water and repeat the process at least 3 times..
    You should have latex free Aloe leaf to now start your defleshing process.

    Reply

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