MDacne
Aloe vera is a tropical succulent from the Aloe family, easily grown in hot, dry climates. Inside its plump leaves is a pulpy middle filled with copious amounts of a gel-like substance. This extract has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, which has led to its use in remedying various skin issues such as acne and psoriasis.
Aloe vera gel is a wonderful addition to daily skin care routines and is used in many over-the-counter (OTC) skin products and treatments. Though consuming aloe vera juice is thought to be an internal cleanser, we're going to look at the benefits of topical application and the best ways to incorporate aloe into your daily skincare routine.
Why choose Aloe vera?
Using Aloe vera is a safe, natural remedy for skin conditions. There are several reasons why you should choose Aloe vera as a treatment option.
- It's natural
Aloe vera is not a laboratory creation like other skincare products; it is a naturally occurring plant with powerful medicinal benefits! It is easy to take care of and grow, so many people opt for growing their own Aloe vera at home. If you doubt your plant-growing skills, Aloe vera is inexpensive and easy to find in stores. You can buy the whole plant or just the gel at your local store. It is sold at many grocery stores, pharmacies, and natural health stores.
- There are no adverse side effects
Very few people have reported experiencing an allergic reaction to Aloe vera. It has been a tried-and-true remedy for centuries. Unlike other herbal treatments that lack scientific grounding, Aloe vera has been proven to be an effective tool in your skincare toolbox. It's a great treatment option for just about anyone.
Benefits of Aloe vera for skincare
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Aloe vera is an anti-inflammatory.
The gel's powerful natural astringent power can help remove dirt, oil, and other impurities out from the skin to avoid any skin irritations that may lead to inflammation. Aloe has the ability to reduce any inflammation around existing breakouts significantly; this can lead to faster healing time of wounds and pimples.
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Aloe vera has antibacterial properties.
When applied directly to the skin, aloe can help kill acne-causing bacteria and lessen the redness associated with breakouts. Together, saponin, a chemical compound found in Aloe, and it's naturally occurring salicylic acid are powerful acne-fighting components that can reduce bacteria and help unclog pores - meaning fewer blemishes and happy skin.
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Aloe vera can soothe the skin.
The magnesium lactate found in aloe vera gel is a natural chemical that is a potent sunburn treatment, itch-reducer, and rash remedy. It may also help reduce the pain associated with pimples and other skin conditions. Used in conjunction with other calming products, Aloe vera can put a stop to skin irritation.
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Aloe vera can lighten acne scars and hyperpigmentation.
By boosting collagen production in the skin, Aloe vera helps reduce the appearance of scarring and dark spots because of a compound called aloesin. It also contains a chemical called anthraquinone that helps skin cells to regenerate, leading to the healthy turnover of cells to create healthy, glowing skin.
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Aloe vera is moisturizing.
Thanks to its high number of mucopolysaccharides, the Aloe vera plant has amazing hydration properties. It is made up of 98% water, so aloe has the ability to hydrate the skin without leaving a greasy residue.
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Aloe vera can slow signs of aging.
Aloe stimulates fibroblast activity, which increases elastin fiber and collagen production, smoothing out wrinkles and making the skin more elastic. Aloe vera also contains 18 amino acids and several other vitamins to fight free radicals that lead to wrinkles and age spots.
What can aloe vera help treat?
Based on research conducted by dermatologists worldwide, Aloe vera has many uses for the face and body. When formulated into a proper regime, it can treat, restore, exfoliate, and provide consistent nutrition to the skin. Some skin conditions that Aloe vera has proven to help include:
● Acne
● Dry skin
● Psoriasis?
● Eczema
● Dandruff
How to use aloe vera at home
There are various ways you can use Aloe vera in your routine. Though it's likely not all methods will work for everyone, Aloe vera's gentleness poses a minimal risk in trying.
Pure aloe vera
Research has found that Aloe vera has many characteristics that make it an effective acne-fighting treatment. You may consider using pure aloe vera gel as an alternative to traditional cleansing options to prevent acne breakouts. You can also apply a small amount of gel directly to a blemish as an overnight spot treatment - just be sure to wash it off in the morning.
Aloe vera and tea tree oil mask
Tea tree oil is effective in healing mild to moderate acne. To make a hydrating skin clearing mask:
- Combine Aloe vera gel, 2 to 3 drops of tea tree oil, and a little bit of water to make a thick but spreadable consistency.
- Apply the mixture to the face for 5 minutes after washing with a gentle cleanser.
- Rinse thoroughly and follow up with a moisturizer.
Aloe vera products
Aloe vera is commonly found in many over-the-counter products, including acne creams, healing ointments, after-sun products, and moisturizing lotions. Using products that contain this wonderful ingredient can play an important role in your everyday regime. Take a look at the active ingredients listed on the label of products to see if it contains Aloe vera. It may also go by Aloe, Aloe Barbadensis, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Aloe Barbadensis Gel, Aloe Juice, Aloe Vera Gel, or Chirukattali Extract.
Is Aloe vera good for acne treatment?
Aloe vera is a great addition to medicated acne creams and lotions. It helps moisturize and reduce skin irritation and redness in sensitive acne-prone skin. The primary value of Aloe vera for acne is its hydrating effects. It is also believed to have antibacterial and antioxidant effects that can help heal acne pimples after and reduce acne scars. Some of our favorite MDacne products contain aloe vera, including our Facial Cleanser, Soothing Moisturizer, Advanced Dark Spot Remover, and Oil-Free Sunscreen.
References
- Aloe vera: a short review
- The Effect of Aloe Vera Clinical Trials on Prevention and Healing of Skin Wound: A Systematic Review
- Aloe vera: Potential candidate in health management via modulation of biological activities
- Tea tree oil gel for mild to moderate acne; a 12 week uncontrolled, open-label phase II pilot study
- Are Natural Ingredients Effective in the Management of Hyperpigmentation? A Systematic Review
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