Aloe vera is a go-to for many people. It’s commonly the first thing we look for when we get burned, whether it be from the sun or hot items. However, this plant benefits our skin beyond the realm of burns.
Aloe vera is a gel-like substance collected from aloe plants. Aloe is a succulent that grows naturally in hot, dry climates. However, it can be grown in various regions if adequately cared for. In colder climates, people grow the plant indoors.
Aloe vera is full of antibacterial, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties. Research shows that this great succulent contains around 200 different active compounds that benefit our health. Vitamins, minerals, and amino acids are a mere few that can treat various skin conditions such as psoriasis, burns, and seborrheic dermatitis.
Top 5 Benefits of Aloe Vera
Aloe vera isn’t only excellent for our skin. It is beneficial for us inside and out. However, today we’re going to focus on the benefits for our skin.
Sunburns & Skin Injuries
Aloe vera soothes burns and injuries to the skin by increasing collagen synthesis. This helps by speeding up healing and reducing resulting scar tissue.
Aloe vera contains the compounds anthraquinones and aloin; both have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that help promote healing and alleviate pain.
Moisturizes Skin
Aloe contains humectants, substances naturally attracting water from the air or deep within our skin. The mucopolysaccharides found in the plant bind moisture into our skin. The naturally occurring cohesive effects of alow work by sticking together any flaking epidermal skin cells, which soften our skin and improve its integrity.
Fades Stretch Marks & Dark Spots
The compounds aloin and aloesin can help fade stretch marks and dark spots. One study had participants apply aloesin four times a day for 15 days. That study found that it was effective for treating post-acne and UV-induced hyperpigmentation.
Another study show us that aloin destroys melanin cells in pigmented cells by blocking the activity of tyrosinase, which is an enzyme responsible for melanin production.
Slows Signs of Aging
The vitamins C and E present in aloe vera can help prevent the formation of free radicals. Free radicals are the molecules that cause cell damage. The salicylic acid contained within aloe acts as a gentle exfoliant. Once the dead skin cells are handled, the other skin-care products we use will better penetrate our skin's surface and have a more positive effect on our skin.
Soothes Skin Conditions
Psoriasis flare-ups are annoying. This inflammatory condition causes itchy, red, and scaly patches on our skin. Adding aloe vera to the mix can help manage and soothe irritation due to its anti-inflammatory properties. Eczema is another skin condition that causes our skin to become itchy and red, as well as causing us to be more prone to bacterial and fungal infections. However, aloe will help this skin condition by hydrating and protecting our skin from contaminants.
When looking for a good aloe vera product, it’s best to choose something that is pure and hasn’t been overly processed with additives. Sometimes the best things for our bodies are simple and don’t require adjustments. Using aloe vera can be a game changer for our body, inside and out.
