The gel from the aloe vera plant has been used for healing and soothing purposes for thousands of years. Aloe vera is a succulent plant that grows in warm climates and can be used fresh from the plant, in packaged extracted gels or in formulas with other ingredients.
Soothes Dry Skin
Aloe vera gel can be applied to dry, cracked skin to start the healing process. The soothing substance provides a natural moisturizer that keeps the skin supple and elastic by promoting a positive environment to bring oxygen to the cells in the skin tissue.
Slows Down Aging Damage
Aloe vera contains some essential nutrients that are helpful in slowing down the aging process on the skin. Some of the nutrients include vitamin C and vitamin E. In some cases, it may also help lighten dark spots from sun damage by reducing the increased pigmentation.
Helps Skin Conditions
Lotions and compounds made with aloe vera have shown some evidence of being a useful treatment of psoriasis and seborrhea, according to the Mayo Clinic. Other skin conditions that may benefit from aloe include burns, insect bites, blisters, frostbite and allergic rashes. It provides relief after overexposure to the sun and may help prevent blistering from the sunburn. Aloe vera can also help reduce itching and irritation caused by a variety of skin conditions, including bug bites, abrasions and shaving burns. Applied to scratches and small cuts, aloe may do a better job than cortisone creams at reducing the pain without the risk of damaging or thinning the skin.
Skin Care and Makeup
Many cosmetic companies use aloe vera as an ingredient to help reduce wrinkles and condition the skin. Varying amounts of the gel may be found in foundations and lipsticks as it helps prevent chapping and chafing. Aloe vera's moisturizing properties make it an ideal ingredient in creams formulated to help prevent or reduce wrinkles. Aloe gives the skin a smooth, radiant glow. Some acne sufferers benefit from applying a thin layer of the gel to the affected area. If used often and regularly, it may help clear up mild acne and prevent future outbreaks, according to Dailyglow.com.
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