Aloe Vera in Skincare: Treating Sunburns, Blemishes, Insect Bites, and More

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 native to Africa, Madagascar, and Arabian Peninsula. The leaves of the aloe vera plant are thick and fleshy, and they contain a clear gel-like juice. This juice is used as an ingredient in cosmetics and medicines. It is also commonly applied to the skin as a beauty treatment or to soothe sunburns. In ancient Egypt, it was allegedly used by Cleopatra as part of her beauty regime, and in ancient Greece, Aristotle praised its virtues to Alexander the Great, advising him to conquer the Socotra island in today's Yemen, rich in aloe vera to obtain the plant and treat the wounds of his soldiers. 

What Does Aloe Vera Contain?

Aloe vera raw pulp contains approximately 98.5% water, while the remaining solid material consists of a range of compounds including water-soluble and fat-soluble vitamins, minerals, enzymes, polysaccharides, organic acids and phenolic compounds. Various active ingredients in aloe vera work beneficially for the skin. Here are some of them: Aloin (barbaloin) is a substance with anti-inflammatory, antiviral, antiseptic, anticancer, and antioxidant properties.  Hormones such as auxins and gibberellins help in wound healing and have anti-inflammatory properties. Salicylic acid is known for its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. Lignin, when included in topical preparations, enhances penetrative effect of the other ingredients into the skin. Saponins that form about 3% of the gel have cleansing and antiseptic properties. Vitamins A, C, and E present in aloe vera have antioxidant properties that help protect the skin from free radicals.   

Aloe Vera Benefits

It is a natural moisturizer.

As mentioned before, aloe vera gel contains 98.5 % 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.

It 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.

It 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. 

It helps with insect bites.

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

It benefits your hair too.

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.

It 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. 

It 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.

It 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.

It 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.

Aloe Vera in Your Skincare Routine Is What You Need

Aloe vera is a natural remedy used for centuries to treat various ailments. It's a versatile plant that has many skin benefits. Thanks to its unique composition, aloe vera gel can eliminate dead skin cells and treat various 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 crucial to know the risks of using aloe vera before using it. If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, you should speak to your doctor before using aloe vera. Still, aloe vera is an excellent option if you're looking for a natural way to improve your skin or hair health.