This Homemade Aloe Vera and Rice Mask Is My Secret to Reducing Fine Lines

I’m telling you: An aloe vera and rice mask is that girl.

Listen, expression lines are a normal and natural part of the skin’s aging process. We’re all destined to get them. That said, I’m not above trying some home remedies as a preventative measure and to help soften any existing fine lines.

And one of the best kept secrets in the beauty world is the combination of aloe vera and rice, two natural ingredients that both have rejuvenating and regenerative properties for the skin. To that end, I’ve found a homemade mask recipe that has become my ally toward keeping my skin firmer and more hydrated without having to resort to invasive treatments or expensive products.

I can’t say it will work with all skin—and please, talk to your dermatologist first if you have sensitive skin or other issues and concerns. But if you are looking for a more natural approach to treating your skin, read on for my favorite aloe vera and rice mask recipe.

How does an aloe vera and rice mask help with fine lines?

Aloe Vera

Aloe (or aloe vera) is a star ingredient in the beauty world thanks to its high concentration of vitamins, antioxidants, and essential minerals. Its many benefits include:

• Deep hydration: Aloe vera nourishes the skin and prevents the kind of dryness that can accentuate wrinkles.
• Collagen stimulation: Aloe also promotes the production of collagen and elastin, which is responsible for skin firmness.
• Cellular regeneration: It helps repair damaged tissues, thus reducing the appearance of fine lines.
• Soothing and anti-inflammatory effect: It’s ideal for sensitive or irritated skin.

Rice

Rice is an age-old ingredient in lots of cosmetics and known for its anti-wrinkle properties. Its many benefits include:

• Tightening effect: Rice can help smooth wrinkles and expression lines, giving a firmer appearance as a result.
• Antioxidant properties: Its high vitamin E content fights free radicals, which are responsible for premature aging.
• Moisturizes and brightens: Rice is moisturizing, which in turn helps provide a natural glow.
• Protection against UV rays: It contains inositol, which helps protect the skin from sun damage.

How to make an aloe vera and rice mask at home?

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons of rice (preferably organic)
• 1 aloe vera leaf (or 2 tablespoons of aloe vera gel)
• ½ cup of water
• 1 teaspoon of honey (optional, to boost hydration)

Preparation

1. Cook the rice in 1/2 cup of water until soft. Strain and save the rice water for another use (can be used as a facial toner).
2. Extract the aloe vera gel from the leaf, making sure to remove the yellowish part that can be irritating to the skin.
3. Blend the rice and the aloe vera gel in a blender until you get a smooth paste.
4. Add the honey and blend again.

Application

1. Cleanse your face thoroughly with warm water and a mild cleanser.
2. Apply the mask with upward movements, spending more time on the areas with expression lines.
3. Leave on for 20 to 30 minutes.
4. Rinse with warm water and finish with your moisturizer.

What are the long-term results and benefits of an aloe vera and rice mask?

If you are consistent with this mask, you may notice in a few weeks time that your skin feels more hydrated, firm, and luminous. Aloe vera and rice work together to improve skin texture, and thus help reduce the appearance of fine lines. It may also help prevent sagging.

It’s proof that you don’t really need to resort to expensive treatments to take care of your skin. The combination of aloe vera and rice is a natural remedy with incredible benefits that have been used for centuries to keep skin looking radiant. So if you’re looking for a way to help fight fine lines and give your face a little extra glow, this mask may become your new favorite.