Aloe vera contains chemical compounds that can decrease the inflammation of acne. This nutritious plant contains rich antioxidants, minerals, amino acids, enzymes and good hormones that can help heal skin wounds. You can either apply aloe vera directly to the skin or consume its gel to attain the effects of the plant.
Consult with your doctor before using or consuming aloe vera products.
Reduces Inflammation
Aloe vera contains the enzyme bradykinase; plant steroids--cholesterol, campesterol, β-sisosterol and lupeol; and hormones--auxins and gibberellins---which all have anti-inflammatory effects, according to Amar Surjushe, et al., in a 2008 review in the "Indian Journal of Dermatology." These natural ingredients can reduce the redness and size of the acne eruptions. These chemical compounds can also reduce pain, a common symptom of acne vulgaris--large bumpy pimples with occasional pus.
Antioxidants
Aloe vera gel has rich antioxidants--vitamins A, C, E, B-12, folic acid and choline. These antioxidants can neutralize free radicals, compounds that can harm cells and DNA, according to Surjushe, et al. Consuming aloe vera gel daily can help keep your immune system strong, allowing the body to work optimally in repairing the wounds of the skin caused by acne and preventing future breakouts. Application of aloe vera gel simultaneously with the oral intake of aloe vera can maximize the effect of the antioxidants.
Salicylic Acid and Zinc
Over-the-counter topical acne treatments generally contain salicylic acid or zinc. These ingredients, which can effectively get rid of acne, are also found in aloe vera plants. The American Academy of Dermatology explains that salicylic acid can help unclog pores by removing dead skin cells and inducing the normal shedding of skin cells that would otherwise clog pore openings. Since pimples form when dirt, dead skin cells and bacteria get trapped in clogged pores, unclogging pores is a first step in treating acne.
Zinc can reduce the symptoms of acne, says the University of Maryland Medical Center. Generally, zinc becomes effective on acne when taken at a dosage of about 30 mg twice a day. However, be sure to not over dose on zinc because it can suppress your immune system, make you tired and cause you to vomit.
Antiseptic and Antibacterial Properties
Saponin, lupeol, aloin and emodin--all found in aloe vera plants--have antiseptic and antibacterial properties, state Surjushe, et al. Antibacterials kill bacteria, while antiseptics inhibit the spread of bacteria, thus reducing infection. These constituents, combined with the aforementioned chemical compounds found in aloe vera, can help reduce the redness and swelling of acne, in which Propionibacterium acnes bacteria play a key role.
Side Effects
The development of allergic reactions to topical aloe vera treatment can occur in some people; thus you should perform a small patch test before using it to treat your face. As for the oral intake of aloe vera, abdominal cramps, worsening of constipation, hepatitis and possibly colorectal cancer after a prolonged use can develop.
According to Dr. Amar Surjushe, et al., pregnant mothers should avoid consuming aloe vera because its chemical properties can stimulate uterine contraction; mothers who are breastfeeding should avoid the intake of aloe vera as well since it can cause stomach and intestinal distress in infants.
Aloe vera has contraindications. For example, it can reduce the effectiveness of hydrocortisone. Consult with your health care provider prior to any self-treatment.
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