Aloe Vera

What Is Aloe Vera?

Prevalent in many different cultures throughout history for its healing properties, Aloe Vera is one of the most widely used herbal remedies for topical skin conditions.

The aloe vera plant belongs to the succulent family, the gel layer of the plant can be extracted from the leaf for use in skincare products. The gel layer, made up of 95% water is rich in vitamins, minerals, amino acids, polysaccharides and phytosterols, imparting AL with hydrating and soothing properties, and antioxidant action. It contains vitamins A, E, C and D, as well as minerals such as magnesium, potassium and zinc, and powerful antioxidants.

The Uses and benefits of Aloe Vera

Aloe vera is suited for all skin types, especially dry, damaged, broken, sensitive and irritated skin. It offers a number of therapeutic activities such as anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antioxidant, humectant and soothing, anti-itch qualities for the skin. It is well tolerated by most and can be used in conjunction with nearly all skincare products and ingredients.

Cases have been reported in which Aloe Vera effectively assisted in the healing of skin conditions including dry skin, psoriasis, eczema, seborrheic dermatitis, dandruff, burns, minor wounds, and irritations.

Hydration: The polysaccharides (sugars) content of Aloe forms a protective barrier on the surface of the skin. This helps to prevent transepidermal water loss from the outermost layer of skin cells, locking in water molecules and retaining moisture. This softens and hydrates the skin without leaving a greasy residue or clogging pores. Additionally, Aloe Vera contains phytosterols, which are anti-inflammatories, which also moisturise and protect the skin from further trans-epidermal water loss.

Soothing: Aloe Vera has natural soothing properties due to its high-water content and moisturising effects. Additionally, it contains phytosterols, and anti-inflammatories, which calm and soothe itchy skin. These soothing properties also provide a cooling sensation and relieve irritation from burns and sun damage.

Skin damage and injuries: Studies show that Aloe Vera has significant healing properties, due to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory action. Working to stimulate cell renewal and rejuvenation by supporting the production of collagen, while accelerating new skin cell production. Making it an ideal remedy for the treatment of burns, cuts, sunburn, and other injuries.

Ageing: Aloe Vera stimulates fibroblasts, a type of cell that contributes to the formation of connective tissue, specifically collagen and elastin fibres, improving skin elasticity and reducing the appearance of wrinkles. As an antioxidant, Aloe Vera fights against free radicals and provides protection from UV damage, helping slow the skin’s ageing process.

Targets inflammatory acne: Aloe is a natural antiseptic and antimicrobial agent, the gel contains salicylic acid and sulfur, which can slow and even stop the growth of bacteria, preventing infections. It works as an astringent to clear the skin’s surface of impurities and tighten pores. Encouraging the growth of new skin cells also helps to fade acne scars.

Include Aloe Vera In Your Routine

To reap the full benefits of Aloe Vera, products containing the plant extract can and should be incorporated into your daily skincare routine. This will prevent and slow down skin conditions such as dryness and ageing.

 Aloe vera can also be used on an ad-hoc basis to treat acute and chronic skin conditions and ailments, apply as and when needed, up to three times a day.

Shop our range of products containing Organic Aloe Vera

Side Effects of Aloe Vera

Aloe Vera is considered skin safe; it is extremely gentle and generally well-tolerated by all skin types, and can even be used by those with the most sensitive skin.

Although there are no serious risks to using Aloe Vera topically on the skin, as is the case with all ingredient, it is possible to have an allergic reaction to Aloe Vera, so we recommend carrying out a patch test before use. If you have a sensitivity, you may experience itching, burning, or develop a rash, in which case discontinue use of the product immediately.

Don’t use aloe vera gel on infected skin. While the gel has microbial properties, its protective layer can disrupt the healing process and make an infection worse.