Aloe vera leaves can be used in various ways, including:

1. Topical application: Aloe vera gel can be applied directly to the skin to treat various skin conditions such as sunburn, rashes, bug bites, and dry skin. To use fresh aloe gel, remove 3-4 leaves at a time, choosing thick leaves from the outer sections of the plant. Ensure the leaves are healthy and free of any mold or damage. Cut them close to the stem, wash and dry the leaves, and trim the prickly edges with a knife. Using a knife or your fingers, separate the interior gel from the outside of the leaf. Allow the yellow sap to drain from the leaf. This is the aloe vera latex. If you plan to use the latex, you can catch this in a container. If you’re not planning to use the latex, you can dispose of it. Cut the aloe gel into slices or cubes.

2. Internal use: Aloe vera can be consumed internally to promote health and well-being. It is sold in capsule or liquid form.

3. Hair care: Aloe vera can be used to moisturize and nourish hair. It can be applied directly to the hair and scalp to treat dandruff and dry hair. Once a month, you can slather Aloe vera all over your hair and scalp making certain to get the ends good and saturated. Leave it in for an hour or so and sometimes overnight before shampooing it out.

4. Face mask: Aloe vera gel can be mixed with clay to make a face mask. Squeeze the gel out into a small bowl and mix it with clay to make a mask.

5. Hand sanitizer: Aloe vera gel can be mixed with alcohol to make a hand sanitizer.

6. Exfoliator: Aloe vera gel can be used as an exfoliator for the skin. Mix aloe vera gel with sugar or salt to make a scrub.

7. Moisturizer: Aloe vera gel can be used as a moisturizer for the skin. When you crack open an aloe vera leaf, you’ll find a gel-like consistency that’s made up of mostly water, as well as a wealth of beneficial nutrients for dry skin. This includes nourishing vitamin E and skin-brightening vitamin C, antioxidants that can strengthen and protect the skin’s barrier.

It is important to ensure that the leaves are healthy and free of any mold or damage before using them. The leaves should be cut close to the stem, and most of the beneficial nutrients are found at the base of the leaves. The yellow sap that drains from the leaf is the aloe vera latex, which can be used separately or disposed of if not needed.