11 Benefits of Aloe Vera For Your Skin

All of us have been told to put on aloe after a bad sunburn but what does it really do? Here is a list of benefits of aloe vera that may surprise you!

Aloe Vera or the ‘plant of immortality’ as known by the Egyptians, is a plant that has been used from as far back as the 16th Century, as a natural remedy for the body. It has so many healing properties, not only for the surface of the skin, but also for the body internally. Nowadays it has become very popular in everyday use, the gel in particular has numerous benefits for the skin and I would definitely recommend incorporating Aloe Vera in some form of your skincare routine. Here are 10 benefits of aloe vera that you may not know!

1. Anti-inflammatory

One of the main properties of Aloe Vera is that it is naturally anti-inflammatory. Aloe Vera contains hormones with healing properties so once used on the skin, it reduces and controls inflammation.

2. Anti-bacterial and Anti-toxitant

Additionally, Aloe Vera carries anti-bacterial and anti-toxitant properties because of the bioactive compounds within the plant. These properties reduce the risk of bacterial growth under the skin which in turn reduces the chances of infection. This can aid those with acne because the gel will reduce redness and irritation to the skin, it can also reduce the appearance of blemish scars which is certainly a win win.

3. Heals Burns and Insect Bites

This is plant absolutely amazing in its healing properties, if you are an individual who is skeptical about using skin medicated products, then in certain minor conditions Aloe Vera may be the right solution. Minor burns such a sunburns and insect bites can be soothed with Aloe Vera, in fact Aloe Vera Ointment was initially approved over the counter specifically for sunburns. Its inflammatory properties will soothe the irritation and relieve pain, also accelerating the healing time.

4. Anti-aging

Aloe Vera contains anti-aging properties as it helps to increase collagen through skin reproduction which makes the skin more elastic and firm, this improves the overall appearance of the skin and reduces wrinkles to maintain your youth.

5. Aids Psoriasis

There is some speculation as to whether Aloe Vera has the ability to improve the symptoms of those with psoriasis because of its healing properties. Psoriasis is a long-term skin condition so although Aloe Vera cannot heal the condition completely, studies have shown that it definitely has the ability to soothe symptoms of inflammation and restore some hydration to the skin. This is one of the most helpful benefits of aloe vera!

6. Moisturising and Hydrating

For those with acne or oily skin, Aloe Vera is the perfect moisturiser because it hydrates the skin and controls excess oils, giving your skin a healthy glow. If you feel like your skin is lacking in hydration and you are trying to restore that natural glow, then a homemade Aloe face mask may be just what you need. Mix Aloe Vera, Coconut Oil and Honey together and wear the mask for 30 minutes and violà the glow is back!

7. Reduces Stretch Marks

Stretch marks occur due to lack of elasticity in the skin, as you grow your skin stretches and if you have poor elasticity, your skin can tear. Frequent use of Aloe Vera can improve the elasticity of your skin which will prevent the skin from tearing again and in the initial stages can reduce the appearance of them.

8. Reduces Mouth Ulcers and Cold Sores

Ulcers and Cold Sores are a result of bacterial infection, Aloe Vera is known for healing gastric ulcers and its antibacterial properties can accelerate the healing process of cold sores, through restoring the skin cells, soothing the pain and slowing or stopping the growth of the cold sore itself.

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9. Grows Lashes and Eyebrows

Everyone either wants thicker eyebrows, longer lashes or both and applying Aloe Vera on your lashes and eyebrows overnight using a clean spoolie or mascara wand actually restores strength and generates growth. Who knew, Aloe could be so handy? This is one of the most unique benefits of aloe vera!

10. Makeup Remover

Aloe Vera can also be used to remove your makeup, just simply apply a generous amount onto a cotton pad and then wipe away. Aloe just keeps getting better.

11. Tan Remover

If you’ve got a horrible tan and your trying to find the quickest resolution, then try Aloe Vera, it is known to be the most effective method and considerably reduces the appearance of the tan within a week. Mixing Honey and Aloe Vera together is the most effective method as they both contain anti-tanning properties. You learn something new everyday!

If you don’t already own some, you might want to get some, so just a heads up, you can purchase Aloe Vera Gel at your nearest health shop or drugstore, such as Holland and Barret where they also sell the drink too. Well, I definitely did not realise exactly how much Aloe Vera does for the skin, did you? Please let us know in the comments!