Aloe Vera is great. The older the plant lives the more potent the gel becomes. Once you cut the leaf it does not grow back. Always use the leaves closest to the soil which tend to be bigger and contain more gel.

Cut off the leaf you want to use, slit the leaf lengthwise to reveal the transparent gel, if you need more just keep  scraping it out until you get the green skin. Cut leaves wrapped in plastic can be kept in the fridge for several days.

When you use the gel directly on your skin, remember it can be like an astringent and dry out you skin so be sure to use a moisturizer or lotion afterwards.

If your using aloe vera directly on your skin and it irrates you, you may be sensitive to it and you should be careful about using it. You can dilute it by mixing it 50/50 with distilled or spring water.

• You can use it as an astringent; Simply soak  a cotton ball with the aloe vera and wipe across your face. Dilute it if it irrates your face.
• Aloe Vera is good for Sunburn soothing. Mix the AloeVera with a little Vitamin E.
• Hair Enhancer: Add 1/4 cup of Aloe Vera gel to 1 cup of any Basic Shampoo and stir well.

Facial Cleanser: Mix 1/4 cup aloe vera gel and 2 tablespoons fresh whole milk togther well. Store in the fridge. Pour a small amount into your hand and gently massage into your face, rinse well with warm water.