Aloe Vera: A One-Stop Beauty Aid

Aloe has been used for its medicinal properties for over 3,000 years. The Egyptian queens and well known beauties Nefretiti and Cleopatra used it as part of their regular beauty regimens. I don’t know about you ladies, but if it’s good enough for royalty, it’s good enough for me! Aloe serves as both an internal and external beauty aid. Sort of like a one-stop beauty aid. No need to hoard a myriad of facial moisturizers or hunt for the best hair conditioner – Aloe vera does it all! The gel of the aloe vera leaf contains over 75 nutrients and 200 active compounds, including 20 minerals, 18 amino acids, and 12 vitamins. Aloe vera is one of the best anti-aging herbs available, helping to rejuvenate aging skin and combat wrinkles. Let aloe vera juice surprise you as it: cleanses and supports your digestive system, infuses you with energy, hydrates your skin, soothes and promotes skin renewal, promotes weight loss, and supports your immune system. Just 2-4 ounces per day can yield noticeable changes quickly. For best results, look for the highest quality of organic aloe. Although many believe that a high quality aloe vera gel or juice contains only the nutritious inner gel; not the “whole leaf”, I have seen notable results from using just the “whole leaf” aloe vera juice. After all, how can I go wrong with the “whole” plant?

Aloe Vera is also very beneficial for your hair. It not only stops hair falling, but creates a good healthy scalp as well. It maintains the Ph balance of the hair and cleanses the pores. Massage the gel or juice ( try a spray bottle for easy application) onto the scalp and leave it for 10 to 15 minutes or overnight before shampooing your hair. Do this every time you wash your hair, because aloe vera has the ability to seal in the moisture content of the hair thus preventing it from drying and frizzing. It also stimulates hair production and can treat alopecia. It has amazing conditioning properties and can be used as a leave- in conditioner after shampooing. Plus, it’s a heat protectant! Use it as a hair serum or as a protective gel before using any heated instrument like hair dryer or flat iron. The well-known preparation of aloe vera gel, wheat germ oil and coconut milk is used as a shampoo and has traditionally shown great benefits for the growth of healthy, thick hair.
Additionally, a 2:1 preparation of aloe juice/gel and extra virgin olive oil or coconut oil makes a great softner/detangler for new growth.

So don’t let this timeless, inexpensive beauty secret slip by! Some common brands are Fruit of the Earth, GNC Natural Brand, and Nature’s Way. Pick up some today at your local market or health food store and reap the wonderful benefits!

A No-Nonsense Guide to Choosing the Right Protein Conditioner

Many people may not realize the mechanics of a good hair conditioner. In all honesty, conditioners are far more complex than most other hair products, such as shampoo. Conditioners are designed to treat the hair after shampooing or cleansing occurs. Conditioners often help replenish the look and feel of the hair after shampooing. Conditioners can help moisturize, add shine and manageability. Much like a fabric softener does to your clothing, after being washed in a detergent. A conditioner should, generally, only be applied to the hair shaft and the ends, especially, the ends. Never apply a hair conditioner to the scalp, it may build-up and create a limp look. However, when managing new growth or varying textures, applying protein deep conditioners to the roots is a highly effective way to ensure strength and lessen breakage at the line of demarcation (where the two textures meet).

In order to choose the right protein conditioner for you, you must consider the type of hair you have dry, oily, or normal. You must also consider whether your hair is thick or thin. However, knowing the condition of your hair is most important, whether normal, or mild to severe damage. This will help in defining the type of ingredients you are looking for in your conditioner. Look for ingredients that address your hair’s specific needs. Wheat protein, silk amino acids, and collagen proteins are all useful in increasing moisture retention and elasticity. These types of proteins are safe for weekly use. While keratin, vegetable and animal proteins act more as heavy strengtheners and should always be followed by a moisturizing conditioner. These types of proteins are ideal for those with damage and breakage. Proper application of the conditioner is very important, as well. It is important to either follow the directions on the contents or follow these simple steps: Pour the conditioner in your hands and rub them together, never apply a glob of conditioner to the hair directly. Apply even amounts of conditioner to the hair shaft and ends. As mentioned earlier, do not apply to the scalp and always condition the ends or tips the most. Since the ends of the hair are the oldest and longest exposed parts of the hair, concentrating on this area will certainly increase your growth retention. Additionally, most conditioners, even instant, need to be left on the hair for at least 1-3 minutes. But many women will attest to the sustained benefits of conditioning hair with heat for 15 minutes or more. Lastly, leave-in conditioners stay in the hair until the next washing and do not require a rinse, they offer extended . Just as important as the type of conditioner is the rinsing. It is important to rinse the conditioner off completely and as directed by the packaging instructions. Often times leaving residues of conditioner on the hair can attract dirt and dust, as well as leave you with a "greasy" or hard feel. When combing the hair while wet, be very careful, you're hair is at its most vulnerable state when wet, even after a good protein treatment. This is often when the most damage can occur. Remember! Choosing the right products for your hair is the first step to a successful hair growth journey.