Photo Credit: depositphotos.com
FOR MORE THAN JUST SUNBURN: THE MAGIC OF ALOE
What do you think of when you hear the words Aloe Vera? I’m instantly transported back to my teen years when I’d visit my grandparents in Bal Harbour, Florida. My sister, brother and I spent almost every school holiday and summer break hanging out with all the other kids who were visiting their grandparents as well. We’d swim in the ocean and bake ourselves by the pool, obviously a very different time — we weren’t schooled to protect our skin as much as we now know we should. If we got sunburned — and we always did — we’d break open an aloe vera leaf and apply the cool, green gel that oozed out of it directly on the burn. Nothing felt better than that!
Aloe Vera has been used medicinally for centuries and just might be the holy grail of ingredients. It’s known to treat different skin conditions including dry or flaky skin, psoriasis and eczema. It’s helpful in treating all types of burns, wounds and skin infections. It promotes a healthy scalp, reduces inflammation, aids in digestion and is also anti-aging.
I was recently sent samples of the aloe vera enriched, Sustainable Youth Alasta® Collection ($50 -$150) and am happy to report I’ve discovered a new favorite skincare line. This line is different from other aloe vera products in that their potency comes from the rind of the aloe vera leaf, instead of the gel and features the most potent immunostimulatory ingredient derived from Aloe, alasta®, discovered when scientists at the University of Mississippi’s National Center for Natural Products Research were looking into the healing properties of Aloe vera and its effect on the immune system. They developed this active complex that releases agents in the immune system, thereby stimulating the skin’s ability to repair, restore and rejuvenate itself. All products in the collection feature it and it’s proven to visibly increase the skin’s elasticity and firmness up to 72%. The collection includes the Ultra Creamy Cleansing Lotion ($50), Elasticity Cream ($100), Firming & Revitalizing Serum ($110), Anytime Lift Eye Treatment ($60) and Super Boost Night Serum ($150).
sustainableyouth.com
Aloe Vera makes it easy to up your beauty game. Here, 3 more ways to do just that:
Urban Decay Vice Lipstick ($17) is super nourishing thanks to aloe vera, jojoba, avocado and babassu oils. It’s also formulated with vitamins C and E for antioxidant protection and illipe butter for long-lasting moisture plus it’s available in 6 different finishes (high shine, matte, mega-matte, metallic, satin and shimmer) and too many shades to count –everything from brights to neutrals, deep dark shades, and everything in between. The brand’s proprietary Pigment Infusion Systemâ„¢ delivers a super-creamy, comfortable texture and rich color payout.
urbandecay.com
Captain Blankenship Mermaid Sea Salt Hair Spray ($24) contains Atlantic Sea Salt for added texture, Organic Aloe Vera Gel for moisture and hold and Organic Sea Kelp Extract to nourish and fortify strands. Simply spray throughout damp or dry hair and tousle. You’ll love the organic essential oil mix that gives hair a light, fresh beach rose scent that lingers.
captainblankenship.com
Hampton Sun Continuous Mist Hydrating Aloe ($10) refreshes and restores on contact. This oil-free formula blends aloe, vitamin E and menthol into a light mist to sooth, smooth, hydrate and heal. The non-aerosol dispenser easily sprays at any angle for no missed spots
neimanmarcus.com
Note: Sustainable Youth Alasta Collection and Urban Decay products were sent for review. All others were sampled in store. Opinions are my own.Â
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