Wonders of Aloe Vera

The one-stop home solutions space

My scalp is dry and itchy, and I usually resort to applying a lot of oil on my hair before shampooing it. I have quite a few food allergies too, and my doctor seems to think the two issues may be related. Could you suggest any remedies for this?

• Georgia

Sometimes food allergies can cause one’s scalp (and the skin on the rest of the body as well) to become itchy. Simply massage aloe vera gel into your scalp and over any area of skin that is irritable. Always ensure that you use a mild shampoo and body wash too — as these will help calm the skin. 
I love your column and find the home remedies in it very effective, such as your egg and yoghurt mask to improve one’s hair. I was wondering if I could also use this mask on my face? I have dull, dry skin and would appreciate some advice.

• Sanita

Yes, a combination of egg and yoghurt will help nourish your skin as well. To make it even more effective, beat the egg well and apply it onto your face. Rinse after it dries, using warm water. Then apply a thin mask of yoghurt on your face and allow it to remain for about 20 minutes before rinsing with cold water. This process should be done two or three times a week to nourish and brighten your skin.
I have oily skin and large open pores. Please suggest a mask that I can use after I come back from work in the evening, and rinse before sleeping.

• Tahir

Take 1 tbsp tomato juice and 1 tsp limejuice; mix well. Dip a cotton ball into this solution and pat your face with it (but be careful to avoid the area around your eyes). After an hour, rinse using cold water. This can also be left on overnight. Doing this every day will go a long way to shrinking your pores and making your skin less oily.
I have quite a few problems... I always feel tired during the day. Another issue is that I have very coarse facial hair. The skin on my face is quite thick and that makes threading or waxing very painful. Can you suggest a home remedy?

• Sandra

You need to consult a doctor. A blood test, especially a hormone test, may reveal a hormonal imbalance. People who have hypothyroidism often feel lethargic, and have thick skin and coarse facial hair, as you have described. In your case, laser hair removal may be the best solution to get rid of the facial hair.
I want to buy some tea tree oil since you have been mentioning it as an antidote for dandruff and acne. Where can I find this oil in Dubai?

• Sia

Tea tree oil should be available at any pharmacy or nutrition shop. You can also find pure essential tea tree oil on the Amazon website. 
(Got a beauty-related query? Write to Rima Soni at wknd@khaleejtimes.com)

• Beauty Basics