How to Make Your Own Aloe Vera Gel at Home?

Aloe vera gel is a versatile and soothing natural product that can benefit your skin, hair, and overall well-being. In this post, I'll guide you through a simple recipe to create your own aloe vera gel at home. It's perfect for anyone dealing with skin problems like eczema, acne, irritation, or dryness, and it also works wonders as a hair conditioner, sunburn rescue, or makeup base. Let’s get started!

Benefits of Aloe Vera Gel

Aloe vera gel is incredibly hydrating and absorbs slowly, leaving no sticky or slippery residue. It's ideal for those who want moisture without the heavy feeling of creams or oils. Here are some of its uses:

• Soothes skin irritation, redness, and sunburn.

• Helps with stretch marks and scars.

• Works as a moisturizing makeup base or under UV creams.

• Conditions hair and scalp or moisturizes hair ends.

• Acts as a serum for eyebrows and eyelashes.

• Serves as a base for face masks instead of water.

Note: Homemade aloe vera gel may change color to pink or red due to natural oxidation—a harmless process similar to apples or bananas browning when exposed to light. To avoid this, store your gel in a dark glass container. Personally, I love the light pink color and use it even more after the change!

Ingredients for Aloe Vera Gel (per 100 ml):

• Aloe vera leaf pulp (blended and strained).

• 1/2 teaspoon xanthan gum (for thickening and stability).

• 1 tablespoon vegetable glycerin (to prevent tightness and add smoothness).

• Essential oil (optional): 5 drops of lemon essential oil or your preferred alternative. Skip if you have sensitive or irritated skin.

• 20 drops of preservative (1%) – DHA BA (Dehydroacetic Acid, Benzyl Alcohol).

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Prepare the Aloe Vera Leaf:

• Wash the aloe vera leaf thoroughly, dry it, and sanitize it with alcohol.

• Cut off the edges and divide the leaf into smaller pieces.

• Peel off the skin and scoop out the clear flesh.

2. Blend and Strain:

• Blend the aloe vera flesh until it reaches a liquid consistency.

• Strain the blended mixture to remove fibers, skin residues, and sticky parts.

3. Add Ingredients:

• Transfer the strained aloe vera pulp to a sanitized container.

• Add xanthan gum, vegetable glycerin, and essential oil (if using).

• Mix with a blender for a smooth consistency.

• Add the preservative and mix gently with a spoon to reduce foam.

4. Store the Gel:

• Transfer the gel into a dark, sanitized, and airtight container. For the best hygiene, use a squeeze bottle to avoid contaminating the gel.

Optional Additions:

Customize your aloe vera gel by adding:

• Medical clay for extra skin benefits.

• Hyaluronic acid for deep hydration.

• Vitamin C for a brightening effect.

• A few drops of apple cider vinegar to balance pH.

Storage Tips:

Without a preservative, store the gel in the fridge and use it within a week. With a preservative, it will last much longer (up to one month) at room temperature.

Watch the Full Tutorial:

For a step-by-step video guide, check out my tutorial on YouTube! You'll see exactly how I make my aloe vera gel, along with tips for using the leftover aloe skin.

Let me know in the comments how you plan to use your aloe vera gel and if you'll be trying this recipe. Happy crafting, and see you in my next post!