What is it? Aloe vera is a succulent plant that has over 200 species and grows in arid regions the world over. Able to thrive both indoors and out, aloe vera is a popular choice for home gardeners as it is extremely easy to maintain and uniquely versatile. Many people keep a potted aloe on the kitchen windowsill for fast access to the gel-like sap, which will soothe and cool burns, scrapes, cut, stings, bug bites and rashes. To access the sap, cut a leaf from the bottom of the plant and slice it in half vertically. Inside, you will find a clear, thick substance which can then be spread onto skin irritations.

While there’s little scientific research available to either prove or disprove the claims of aloe vera’s medical usefulness, the plant has been a popular homeopathic remedy for thousands of years. Not only do practitioners believe that aloe vera gel is useful externally, many also maintain that the juice of the aloe vera plant is useful when taken internally, however; consult with a qualified herbalist or doctor before ingesting this substance as certain people should avoid taking aloe vera internally. But with the exception of injecting the derivatives of the aloe vera plant, aloe vera is generally considered safe for topical use.

You’ll find it in: Aloe vera is commonly be found in 100% aloe vera gels and lotions, or incorporated into skincare preparations, such as cleanser, toner or moisturizer. For many people, a large bottle of green aloe vera gel can be found lurking in the cupboard, awaiting summertime and sunburns. You can also find aloe vera in a variety of over-the-counter products ranging from body wash and lotion to facial tonics and shampoo. With its concentration of soothing and hydrating properties, aloe vera is a natural addition to beauty products.

Our product picks: Ole Henricksen All Purpose Aloe Vera Gel enhances aloe vera’s healing and hydrating abilities with the ultra-soothing addition of chamomile. Oil-free, non-sticky and refreshing, smooth the gel onto cuts, rashes, sunburned and dry skin.

Swap your current face toner for a hydrating spritz of DDF Aloe Toning Complex. This fragrance and alcohol-free toner is extremely gentle, safe for all skin types and features Sodium PCA for added hydration and healing. Finally, give the body a daily dose of aloe vera with CLEAN Original Soft Body Lotion.

What you can expect: Aloe vera will provide instant relief to sunburned or dry skin, rashes or cuts. Skin will be cooled upon contact, and stinging or irritation will be calmed instantly. Additionally, aloe vera is a humectant, and binds much needed moisture to the skin.

Who should avoid it? Most people can use aloe vera without experiencing any kind of adverse reaction. The Mayo Clinic suggests that anyone with a known allergy to garlic, onions, tulips or other plants within the Liliaceae family avoid aloe vera. In addition, women who are pregnant or breast-feeding should avoid oral use of aloe vera, as it may stimulate uterine contractions.

See also:

Milk: Creamy Care for Your Skin

Chamomile

Jojoba Oil