Aloe vera is a spiky succulent whose leaves hold a clear, jelly-like gel. Aloe vera powder is the dried, milled leaf, and it's a handy store-cupboard alternative to fresh aloe for homemade face and hair masks. Here's how to use aloe vera powder on your skin and hair.

This guide covers external use on skin and hair only.

Before you start

• Patch test: apply a little of the mixed paste to the inside of your elbow 48 hours before using it on your scalp or face, and don't use it if you notice any irritation.
• Keep it away from your eyes, and don't use it on broken or sore skin.
• Mix only what you need: homemade aloe mixtures contain no preservatives, so use them straight away.

How to turn aloe vera powder into a gel

1. Put 1 teaspoon of aloe vera powder in a small glass or ceramic bowl.
2. Add 3 to 4 tablespoons of cool water a little at a time, whisking with a fork or mini whisk.
3. Leave for 5 to 10 minutes to thicken, then whisk again. Add more powder for a thicker gel or more water for a thinner one.

Aloe vera face mask

Mix 1 teaspoon of aloe vera powder with 1 tablespoon of plain yoghurt and 1 teaspoon of honey. Apply a thin layer to clean skin, avoiding the eyes and lips, leave for 10 to 15 minutes and rinse with lukewarm water.

Aloe and clay face mask

Mix 1 tablespoon of bentonite clay, 1 teaspoon of aloe vera powder and enough water or rose water to make a smooth paste. Apply for 5 to 10 minutes, then rinse and moisturise.

Aloe vera hair mask

Make a batch of aloe gel as above, then stir in 1 tablespoon of coconut oil. Work it through damp hair from mid-lengths to ends, cover with a shower cap for 20 to 30 minutes, and wash out with shampoo.

Aloe and hibiscus hair paste

Mix 2 tablespoons of hibiscus powder with a batch of aloe gel to a smooth paste. Apply to damp hair, leave for 20 to 30 minutes and rinse well. See more ideas in our guide to using hibiscus powder for hair.

Aloe vera powder vs fresh aloe gel

Fresh aloe gel is ready to use but spoils within days once a leaf is cut. The powder keeps for months in a sealed pouch, and you can mix exactly as much as you need, as thick or thin as you like.

How to store it

Keep the pouch sealed in a cool, dry place away from sunlight. Aloe powder absorbs moisture from the air, so always use a dry spoon.

Shop our Organic Aloe Vera Powder, or read more hair and beauty guides.