We all know the benefits of aloe vera for sunburned skin, but did you know that it has other benefits for your skin, too? Aloe vera is a great natural moisturizer and can help to soothe dry skin. It also has anti-inflammatory properties, which can help to reduce the appearance of blemishes and wrinkles. Plus, aloe vera is non-irritating and can be used on any type of skin. So if you’re looking for a natural way to improve your skin health, consider having aloe vera in your skincare routine.

What is aloe vera?

Aloe vera is a succulent plant that is native to Africa. The leaves of the aloe vera plant are thick and fleshy, and they contain a clear gel-like substance. This gel is what we use for skincare purposes. Namely, aloe is mentioned in a papyrus as a medicinal plant. In ancient Egypt, it is used to relieve certain ailments and certain pains. Aloe vera was also used to soothe skin irritations. Aristotle praises its virtues and we find it a few centuries later in the list of medicinal plants on the side of China and India.

What does aloe vera contain?

Aloe vera gel is made up of 96 % water, some enzymes, minerals, amino acids, and vitamins. It is the presence of several active ingredients that explains all the virtues of aloe vera for skin. Thus, we find in aloin (barbaloin) a substance with antiseptic, purifying, and soothing action against inflammation. Allantoin has healing, soothing and anti-inflammatory properties.

clean beauty

Alo vera is 96 % water which is why it’s a great natural option for moisturizing your skin.

Mucilage soothes and has a protective action while zinc stimulates the synthesis of collagen. Vitamins A, C, and E present in aloe vera have antioxidant properties that help protect the skin from free radicals. Also, salicylic acid present in aloe vera has an exfoliating action.

Aloe vera benefits

Aloe vera is a natural moisturizer

As we mentioned, aloe vera gel is 96 % water. This makes it a great natural option for moisturizing your skin. It can help to soothe dry skin and make it more supple. Plus, aloe vera gel is readily absorbed by the skin, so you won’t be left with a greasy feeling.

Aloe vera has anti-inflammatory properties

One of the main benefits of aloe vera is its anti-inflammatory properties. This can help to reduce the appearance of blemishes, pimples, and wrinkles. Aloe vera can also help to calm sunburned skin.

Aloe vera is non-irritating

Another great benefit of aloe vera is that it is non-irritating. This makes it a good choice for people with sensitive skin. It can be used on any type of skin, including sensitive and acne-prone skin.

Aloe vera helps with insect bites

Both antiseptic, anti-itching, and healing, aloe vera can perfectly treat insect bites without risk of reaction since it is non-irritating.

Aloe vera for hair

Aloe vera can also be used for your hair. It can help to moisturize your scalp and add shine to your hair. Plus, aloe vera can help to treat dandruff and other scalp conditions.

Aloe vera treats sunburns

Aloe vera gel can help to treat sunburns. It has both soothing and moisturizing properties that can help to relieve the pain and discomfort of a sunburn. Plus, aloe vera can help to speed up the healing process.

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Aloe vera treats acne scars

Acne scars are notoriously difficult to treat. However, aloe vera gel can help to lighten acne scars and improve their appearance. Thanks to its antiseptic properties, aloe vera can also help to prevent the formation of new acne scars.

Diminishes dark circles

Aloe vera gel can also help to diminish dark circles. Thanks to its anti-inflammatory properties, aloe vera gel can help to reduce the appearance of puffiness and swelling around the eyes. Plus, aloe vera gel is a great natural option for moisturizing the delicate skin around your eyes.

Heals wounds

Aloe vera, just as aloe vera products, can be used to heal wounds. Thanks to its antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties, aloe vera can help to speed up the healing process. Also, if you have irritated skin, aloe vera can help to soothe the irritation.

Risks of using aloe vera

Allergic reaction

Since the aloe vera is photosensitizing, it is necessary to be careful when using it during the summer. It is also necessary to avoid contact with the eyes since aloe vera gel can cause irritation. If you have never used aloe vera before, it is advisable to do a test on a small area of skin first to check for any possible allergic reaction.

If you have never used aloe vera before, it is advisable to do a test on a small area of skin first to check for any possible allergic reaction.

Interaction with other medications

Aloe vera can interact with certain medications, such as diuretics, heart medication, diabetes medication, and laxatives. If you are taking any medication, it is advisable to speak to your doctor before using aloe vera.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

Aloe vera is not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women. This is because there is not enough evidence to show that it is safe to use during pregnancy or breastfeeding. If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, it is advisable to speak to your doctor before using aloe vera.

How to use aloe vera for skin?

Aloe vera can be used in many ways for your skin. You can apply aloe vera directly to the skin, or you can add it to other products such as face masks, lotions, and creams.

If you are applying aloe vera directly to the skin, it is important to make sure that the gel is from a pure source. You should also test the gel on a small area of skin first to check for any adverse reaction.

When using aloe vera for hair, you can either apply the gel directly to your scalp or add it to your shampoo or conditioner. Enriching your shampoo or conditioner with aloe vera can help to add moisture and shine to your hair, but also to make your hair smooth.

Soothing face mask

A soothing face mask with aloe gel, cucumber, and green tea is something you could try.

Ingredients:

  • 1/4 cup aloe vera gel
  • 1/2 cucumber, peeled and grated
  • 1 green tea bag

Directions:

  1. In a bowl, mix together the aloe vera gel, cucumber, and contents of the green tea bag.
  2. Apply the mask to your face and neck and leave for 15-20 minutes.
  3. Rinse the mask off with warm water and pat your skin dry.
  4. Apply a moisturizer to your face and neck.
  5. Repeat the process 2-3 times a week for best results.

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Aloe vera in your skincare routine is what you need

Aloe vera is a natural remedy that has been used for centuries to treat a variety of ailments. It’s a versatile plant that has many skin benefits. Thanks to its unique composition, aloe vera gel can be used to eliminate dead skin cells and treat a variety of skin conditions, including acne, acne scars, sunburns, dark circles, and wounds. Plus, aloe vera gel can also be used to moisturize your skin and hair. However, it is important to be aware of the risks of using aloe vera before you start using it. If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, it is advisable to speak to your doctor before using aloe vera. Still, if you’re looking for a natural way to improve your skin or hair health, aloe vera is a great option.