Aloe Vera in Skin Care: Healing Benefits and Safety Tips

Aloe Vera Uses and Benefits

Aloe vera belongs to a family of plants that have medicinal properties.

Aloe vera can be used topically (applied to the skin) or internally (taken by mouth) to prevent and treat certain conditions, such as acne and burns. 12

Aloe vera is the most common type of aloe vera product. It comes from the cactus plant, Aloe barbadensis.

3 Studies have shown that the active ingredients in aloe vera help protect bones and prevent diseases such as cancer and diabetes. 4

Aloe vera is generally harmless, but it can cause side effects such as allergic reactions and aloe vera poisoning. It can also cause skin conditions such as eczema.

Aloe Vera Types and Their Uses

There are more than 500 species of aloe vera, with different properties and uses.

5 The species of aloe vera most commonly used in medicines and topical products include Aloe barbadensis and Aloe arborescens. 15

Aloe vera (Aloe barbadensis)

Aloe vera comes from the Aloe barbadensis plant. It contains more than 200 bioactive ingredients that may benefit your health. Most of these ingredients are found in the clear gel inside its leaves. 6

Aloe vera is used in medicine and skin care products, usually in the form of gels and creams. 4 Applied directly to the skin, it has moisturizing and wound healing properties.

7 Its health-promoting components include polysaccharides, flavonoids, amino acids, and phenolic acids. 6

Polysaccharides: Carbohydrate molecules that provide energy to plant cells. Some of the materials used in wound healing and medicine are derived from aloe polysaccharides.

8 Liu C, Cui Y, Pi F, Cheng Y, Guo Y, Qian H. Extraction, purification, structural properties, bioactivity, and pharmacological applications of aloe polysaccharide acemannan: a review.

Molecules. 2019;24(8):1554. doi:10.3390/molecules24081554

Flavonoids: Natural plant compounds with anticancer, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antiviral properties. These substances have also been shown to protect the heart and brain.

9 Amino acids: The building blocks of proteins. Amino acids have a variety of functions, including helping the body digest food and repair body tissues. They are also a source of energy for the body.

10 Phenolic acids: Natural antioxidants that reduce the risk of oxidative stress in the body.

The accumulation of oxidative stress in the body can eventually lead to diseases such as cancer, heart disease, and diabetes. 11

Aloe vera can be applied to the skin to relieve symptoms such as acne and burns. 2

Studies have shown that oral aloe vera can help with weight loss, cancer, diabetes, hepatitis (liver inflammation), and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) (a condition involving long-term inflammation of the digestive tract). 42

Certain components of aloe vera, including aloesin, may help protect bones and slow the progression of bone diseases such as osteoporosis (bone loss).

Although this research is promising, further clinical studies are needed to clarify how aloe vera and its components protect the body from certain diseases. 4

Aloe arborescens

Clinical studies have shown that aloe vera has antioxidant effects. Antioxidants are compounds that can inhibit the growth of free radicals (a type of molecule that can damage human cells).

However, most studies have focused on aloe vera. 12

Aloe arborescens has a higher concentration of fatty acids than either aloe vera or aloe vera. These fatty acids effectively coat the plant and act as a barrier against environmental stressors.

12 These include linoleic and linolenic acids, polyunsaturated omega-6 fatty acids, which are considered essential fats (fats that the body cannot produce on its own). 1314

Polyunsaturated fats are a type of healthy fat that is necessary for brain health and the proper functioning of body cells. Omega-6 fatty acids support cellular function. 1314

Cape Aloe

Aloe vera is one of the most commonly used medicinal plants. It has shown promise in reducing body weight, body mass index (BMI), low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, and fasting blood glucose (FBG).

Research suggests that these health benefits may be attributed to certain components of aloe vera that have natural detoxifying properties and act as natural laxatives, thereby promoting bowel movements. 15

Other studies have also demonstrated the antioxidant, antimicrobial, and anticancer properties of Cape Aloe. 16

Because of the side effects, this plant can only be used for a limited time, so further research is needed on the safety and efficacy of Cape Aloe. 15

Aloe Vera Perry

Aloe vera is an herb that has been clinically shown to have antioxidant, antimicrobial, and anticancer properties. 1718 Extracts can be used medicinally to treat a variety of diseases, including cancer.

Research is currently underway to find the most effective delivery methods. 18

Aloe vera contains many phytochemicals (plant compounds) that help fight disease. These include flavonoids and other compounds, including: 18

Glycosides: Plant compounds composed of one or more sugars bound to hydroxyl compounds (compounds in which an oxygen atom is chemically bound to a hydrogen atom).

Glycosides have shown anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects that can help prevent and treat disease. 19

Proteins: Complex molecules that perform a variety of functions in the body. They are necessary for the function, structure, and regulation of tissues and organs.

Proteins contain amino acids that help the body digest food, repair body tissues, and produce energy. 20

Phenols: Antioxidants with anti-inflammatory properties that prevent the accumulation of oxidative stress in the body, which can lead to chronic (long-term) diseases such as diabetes, cancer, and heart disease. 21

Research shows that aloe vera flowers contain a large number of secondary plant compounds that can inhibit the growth of cancer cells. 22

Applications

The dosage of aloe vera depends on the species and the intended use.

Although aloe vera has been used as a laxative in juices and other foods, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) no longer approves it for this use due to a lack of safety data. 3

Aloe vera gel can be applied to the skin as an ointment to speed the healing of wounds and burns or to treat acne. 322 Aloe vera is also found in beverages, capsules, powders, and food flavorings (as an additive). 3

Aloe arborescens can be consumed as juice or applied as a gel. Dosages vary depending on the condition being treated. 2312

Aloe vera can be taken as a dietary supplement. 15 In one study, participants took two capsules containing 460 milligrams (mg) per day for two weeks, followed by a two-week break.

The cycle was repeated three times. After three months, participants showed significant improvements in weight, body mass index (BMI), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDLc), and fasting blood glucose (FBG). 15

Aloe vera extracts are used medically for wound healing and treating conditions such as cancer. 18 Dosing and treatment are performed by a physician.

Before incorporating aloe vera into your daily routine, always discuss dosage and use with your physician.

Safety and Side Effects

Aloe vera is safe and well tolerated when taken orally or applied properly to the skin. 2 However, pregnant women should avoid taking it. 2 Other risks include aloe vera poisoning and allergic reactions.

Aloe vera poisoning

Aloe vera poisoning can occur if certain preparations (such as whole leaf extracts, latex, or gel) are swallowed. 24 Symptoms of aloe vera poisoning include:25

Severe abdominal pain

Vision loss

Difficulty breathing

Diarrhea

Rash

Neck swelling

Vomiting

Skin irritation

If you experience any of these symptoms after using aloe vera, call your local emergency number or contact poison control. You can also call poison control toll-free at 1-800-222-1222.

If you suspect aloe vera poisoning, seek medical attention immediately. 25

Aloe vera allergy

Some people are allergic to aloe vera. Symptoms of aloe vera allergy include:

Chest pain

Throat tightness

Rash

Difficulty breathing

Other side effects

Other side effects include skin reactions, gastrointestinal reactions, and acute hepatitis. For example:

Topical use of aloe vera gel can cause burning, eczema, and itching (pruritus). In this case, stop use and consult a doctor.

Oral use of aloe vera latex may cause cramping or abdominal pain.

Using aloe vera leaf extract for three weeks to five years has been associated with cases of acute hepatitis.

Choosing an Aloe Vera Product

When choosing an aloe vera product, you should consider factors such as intended use, oral or topical use, and the type of aloe vera.

Dietary supplements are not regulated by the FDA, but the FDA has approved aloe vera as a food additive with a flavor approval.

263 If you are taking an aloe vera supplement, check the label to see if it has been independently tested.

This means that the product has been tested for quality and contains only the ingredients listed on the bottle. 27

When choosing an aloe vera cream or gel, choose one that is made from depigmented whole leaf extract.

Whole leaf extracts of aloe vera that have not been properly processed have been linked to cancer. 28

If you are unsure which type of aloe vera is right for you, talk to your doctor. Always use an aloe vera product as directed in the instructions or on the packaging.

Brief Overview

Aloe vera is a plant with a variety of healing and medicinal properties, from accelerating wound healing to treating diseases such as cancer.

Depending on the type and dosage form, aloe vera can be applied topically to the skin or taken orally.

Aloe vera is the most commonly used type of aloe vera. Other species include Aloe perryi, Aloe ferox, and Aloe arborescens.

Rich in plant compounds with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, aloe vera is a versatile plant with many benefits for overall health.

Since it is a natural substance, caution is advised. Aloe vera poisoning or allergy may occur.

If you experience symptoms of aloe vera poisoning or allergy, such as loss of vision, rash, or skin irritation, seek medical attention as soon as possible.

DQH Knowledge drop: In your 20s, your skin cell turnover decreases. (Cell turnover is a key component in keeping your skin youthful.) You know what else slows down? Your collagen production. Starting in your 20s, collagen decreases by about 1 percent per year. Should you want to prevent fine lines and wrinkles, start by eliminating behaviors that contribute to premature aging. “If it’s bad for you, it’s bad for your skin,” says dermatologist Michel Somenek. “Cigarette smoking reduces blood flow to the skin and causes premature wrinkling and a dull skin texture. Making the repeated pursed motion to inhale can also cause smoker’s lines. Alcohol and recreational drugs are toxins for the skin that damage its cellular structure and DNA,” Somenek tells us. “The faster you eliminate vices while you are young, the better chance your skin and body have to recuperate.” Also, adopting an anti-aging routine in your 20s is key. After all, the best offense is a good defense. We spoke to Somenek and experts Joshua Ross and Audrey Kunin to find out more. Keep reading for the best anti-aging products for your 20s, according to skincare professionals. Sunscreen “We all know that the sun is the number one cause of skin aging and starting the prevention in your 20s is very important,” Ross says. “The majority of your sun damage won’t start to appear until you’re in your 30s, so don’t wait until you see it surface or you’ll be behind the curve. Stay ahead of it with a good-quality zinc-based sunscreen worn daily.” Farmacy Green Defense Daily Mineral Sunscreen An invisible sunscreen with SPF 30, plus botanical extracts meant to protect skin with tons of antioxidants. Bonus: It’s clean and fine to use under makeup. Bareminerals Complexion Rescue™ Tinted Moisturizer Broad Spectrum SPF 30 Although we recommend you use your SPF and moisturizer separately, we also understand moments when you don’t have time or energy for that extra step. For those times, this bareMinerals moisturizer is a great thing to have on hand. Vitamin C Serum “A great introduction to anti-aging is to start with a vitamin C serum in your morning skincare routine,” Ross says. “It’s a powerful antioxidant that will neutralize free radicals and brighten the skin.” He adds that it’s a great way to counteract the effects of the sun’s harmful rays, which, as previously mentioned, are among the biggest causes of premature aging. Drunk Elephant C-Firma™ Vitamin C Day Serum The Drunk Elephant C-Firma is a lightweight serum that promises to give skin a glow by combining the brightening powers of vitamin C with ferulic acid, l-ascorbic acid, and vitamin E. The included sodium hyaluronate is meant to replace hydration loss, so you shouldn’t have to deal with any irritation. Sunday Riley C.E.O. Rapid Flash Brightening Serum This potent serum is jam-packed with vitamin C (15 percent, to be exact), which means it’s a potential superstar at both brightening skin and dousing it in antioxidants. Peptides Using peptides on your skin has many benefits, says Somenek. “The skin barrier is what defends the body against pollution, UV rays, bacteria, and toxins. It can be damaged by several everyday factors. Using topical peptides aids in building a stronger barrier,” he says. “Peptides comprise elastic fibers, which are a type of protein. These fibers help to make skin appear taut and firm. Peptides can also help repair damaged skin, relieve inflammation, and even out skin tone. Some peptides can kill acne-causing bacteria that is common in 20-somethings.” Kunin agrees, saying, “Peptides are an excellent entry point for supporting collagen.” She recommends looking for face and eye treatments that contain these collagen-boosting powerhouses. Charlotte Tilbury Magic Eye Rescue Cream This Charlotte Tilbury super-emollient eye cream has a base of coconut oil and shea butter (read: it’s incredibly hydrating). Botanicals plus peptides are meant to help reduce dark circles and boost collagen, respectively. This creamy moisturizer serves up potent collagen-boosting peptides and pycnogenol, and antioxidant-rich vitamin C. “Instead of sitting on top of the skin, peptides penetrate the outer layer so they go deep. The ‘signals’ they send tell the cells to produce elastin and collagen, which are needed for youthful-looking skin,” explains Somenek. At-Home Peel Pads Remember that skin cell turnover fiasco we talked about earlier? One way to help support it is by exfoliating. “Exfoliation is important to help keep skin fresh and luminous,” Kunin says. She recommends using at-home peel pads as an easy and effective way to exfoliate. “The goal in your 20s is to fight the slowing pace of cell turnover. It is wise to use products that gently exfoliate, yet still remove oil and other impurities. Products that have Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHA) or Beta Hydroxy Acids (BHA) are a good choice.” According to Somenek, you should only exfoliate two to three times a week. “People of all ages are guilty of over-exfoliating and that can be too much of a good thing,” he says. Dermadoctor Kakadu C Intensive Vitamin C Peel Pad A few swipes of this Derma Doctor powerful peel pad promise to leave your skin glowing and smooth, thanks to the seven (yes, seven) types of chemical exfoliants, including AHA and BHA. It also contains vitamin C via Kakadu plum extract for added brightening and antioxidant protection. KEY INGREDIENTS Kakadu plum extract is sourced from the Kakadu plum, a fruit grown in northern Australia. It contains vitamin C, which restores the skin’s natural barrier, increases collagen production, and soothes irritation. Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare Alpha Beta® Universal Daily Peel Pads These are the gold standard of peel pads, with a cult following and over 900 five-star reviews on Sephora. They’re easy to use and contain a blend of anti-aging exfoliating acids. Emollient Night Cream “In your 20s, you need to start upping the hydration in your skincare routine. You may have been cautious of over-moisturizing because of acne in your teens, but as you enter your 20s, your skin transitions and becomes drier,” Ross says. “I recommend an emollient night cream added into your evening skincare regimen.” “Twenty-somethings need to make sure that they are not using creams that will clog their pores and cause excess oil production,” says Somenek. Opt for non-comedogenic products. Cerave Skin Renewing Night Cream One great choice is the CeraVe Skin Renewing Night Cream, which is a non-comedogenic night cream that leaves skin soft and glowy. It combines the moisturizing powers of ceramides and hyaluronic acid. RoC Retinol Correxion Max Hydration Creme “The best night cream ingredients contain retinol, benzoyl peroxide, and/or salicylic acid or hyaluronic acid. The goal is to moisturize, yet remove excess oil,” says Somenek. This Roc Retinol Correxion cream fits the bill as it contains both hyaluronic acid and retinol so it promises to moisturize while also being non-comedogenic.

Related Articles

Ad Blocker Detected