ALOE vera is perhaps one of the most widely used herbal remedies for topical skin conditions.
This is because the gel-like components of the plant are known to heal the skin from a variety of minor ailments.
In fact, you might have even used aloe in the past for sunburn, minor cuts, or small abrasions.
Despite its healing powers, you may be wondering if it is safe for using on your face.
Generally speaking, the answer is yes.
When used correctly, aloe vera can help with a variety of ailments that might affect your skin. Below are 10 of these benefits.
Benefits:
If you are dealing with a chronic skin condition, it is a good idea to check with your dermatologist before applying any products to your face.
Talk to your doctor about the following potential benefits of aloe vera.
Burns:
For minor burns, apply aloe vera gel to the affected area up to three times daily.
You may also need to protect the area with gauze.
Sunburn:
While aloe vera helps soothe sunburn, it is not an effective way to prevent sunburn, so make sure you wear sun protection every day!
Small abrasions
If you have scuffed up your chin or forehead, you can apply aloe vera to the area for quick relief from pain and burning sensations.
Use three times per day.
Cuts:
If you are used to grabbing Neosporin for a minor cut, consider trying aloe vera instead.
Its molecular structure helps heal wounds quickly and minimises scarring by boosting collagen and fighting bacteria.
Apply up to three times per day.
Dry skin:
Aloe vera gel absorbs easily, making it ideal for oily skin.
However, it can help treat dry skin, too.
Consider swapping out your regular moisturiser for aloe after bathing to help seal moisture into your skin.
Cold sores:
Unlike canker sores, cold sores develop on the outside of your mouth.
Aloe vera may help treat the herpes virus, which is also the underlying cause of cold sores.
Apply a small amount of the gel to your cold sore twice daily until it goes away.
Eczema:
The moisturising effects of aloe can help alleviate dry, itchy skin associated with eczema.
Aloe vera gel may also help alleviate seborrheic dermatitis.
While this oily form of eczema is most often found in the scalp, it can also affect parts of your face and behind the ears, too.
What to look for:
The insides of an aloe plant’s leaves are the most potent form of aloe vera gel.
However, not everyone has an aloe plant hanging around their house.
In such cases, OTC products work just as well.
For the best results, look for a gel that lists aloe vera as its main ingredient.
For skin ailments, aloe vera extracts do not work as well as gel.
This is because the gel itself has moisturising elements to protect and heal the skin.
The bottom line:
Aloe vera may be a source of natural treatment for a variety of skin ailments.
Remember that topical aloe gel is not the same as using the plant directly on your face.
If you use aloe vera on your skin, and don’t see any improvements within a few days, call your dermatologist.
They can help with specific concerns you have regarding your overall skin health. – Online.
