Aloe vera has been used for its extensive medicinal properties for thousands of years. It has a short stem and thick leaves. The leaves contain a slimy gel tissue that contains water and is rich in many bioactive substances.
Aloe vera is widely used as an ingredient in beauty and skincare products, and for valid reasons. Read on to find out why aloe is a perfect ingredient in your skincare products.
- Anti- Aging Properties
Aloe vera gel is rich in many antioxidants and protects against the day to day damage of free radicals which are responsible for aging. Aloe vera also enhances collagen production. Collagen is the protein in your skin which gives it its elastic nature, and loss of collagen can lead to wrinkles, fine lines, and other skin imperfections. Thus the use of aloe vera makes your skin smooth, supple, and elastic and also prevents premature aging.
- Provides Nutrition to the Skin
Aloe vera is rich in vitamins C, E, beta carotene (precursor of vitamin A), beneficial fatty acids, and proteins that provide nourishment to your skin and keep it fresh and energized.
- Excellent Moisturizer
Aloe vera keeps your skin hydrated and is a very effective moisturizer. It moisturizes your skin without making it greasy, and is therefore great for oily skin! However, avoid the use of excess aloe vera for moisturization. This is because it also has exfoliative properties, and excess exfoliation can make your skin dry.
4. Healing Properties
Aloe vera is celebrated for its antibacterial, antiviral, and anti-inflammatory properties. It can be applied topically on minor cuts and wounds. Research has shown that aloe vera is beneficial against burns, and reduces the healing time significantly. It is also very effective in cases of sunburns.
5. Fights Acne
Due to its antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and exfoliative properties, aloe vera is very beneficial against acne. It is also helpful in fading acne scars and blemishes.
6. Good for Sensitive Skin
Aloe vera provides gentle, soothing care and has a cooling effect on your skin. It is great for people with sensitive skin, and beneficial against sores, eczema, and psoriasis.
7. Great for Your Hair
Aloe vera is rich in many nutrients, amino acids, and enzymes that repair hair damage and prevent hair fall. They promote hair growth, decrease dandruff, maintain proper hydration, and keep your hair smooth and shiny.
HOW TO USE ALOE VERA
Cut the aloe leaf with a knife, and carefully take out the gel inside. You can cut this into cubes, and use topically over your skin. Alternatively, you can also mince it into a fine gel.
You can also look for aloe vera as a constituent in your DIY skin care products. From aloe vera bath soak like our Yerba Mate Bath Soak with Aloe & Jojoba oil or body butter and body polish, the choices are immense. It is available separately in powdered form as well.
Aloe vera has long been held as a miracle plant with wonderful health benefits. Its effects on the skin particularly stand out, and it's a common ingredient in many beauty and skincare products. From great moisturization to healing properties, aloe vera packs a variety of benefits in a single package.