Why use aloe vera gel? Dermatologists say it has many healing properties and applications for the whole body. “Aloe vera is a powerful plant,” explains Naana Boakye, dermatologist and owner of the New Jersey-based Bergen Dermatology. “It has various medical and cosmetic applications due to all the vitamins, enzymes, and minerals. Due to all these properties, the aloe vera gel is considered anti-inflammatory and [it has] antimicrobial properties.” After 30 days, the aloe toothpaste was found to be more effective than the triclosan toothpaste in lowering levels of candida, plaque, and gingivitis. The topical application of herbal preparations containing fresh aloe vera has been shown to boost hair growth in one study. 20 Consuming aloe vera in juice, powder or gel form can help add fibrous bulk to your stool and encourage a swifter passage through your digestive tract.

With its natural antibacterial, moisturizing, and soothing properties, aloe vera gel is loaded with health and beauty benefits. Containing antioxidants, enzymes and vitamins A and C, aloe vera gel is considered highly anti-inflammatory which makes it good for applying to acne and dry skin. The enzymes also mean aloe gel can help exfoliate.Aloe vera applied daily to your scalp might help keep your scalp clear and fresh by helping to slough off dead skin cells and open pores. Aloe vera can help hands which have been ravaged by exposure to external irritants such as hand sanitiser.

But there’s a catch: Many products marketed as “pure aloe vera” don’t live up to the claim, according to a report from Consumer Lab, an independent testing company focused on health and nutrition products. If you apply an aloe vera gel that happens to have no aloe in it, you’re probably not going to harm your skin—and you may still get sunburn relief, Dr. Saedi says. But to get all the ways aloe vera gel can benefit your skin, you’ll want to make sure you’re purchasing the real deal. Traditionally, the latex in aloe vera, when taken orally, has a long history as a remedy for constipation. Its benefits are mainly due to a type of natural laxative found in aloe’s latex called aloin. Aloe vera gel absorbs easily, making it ideal for oily skin. However, it can help treat dry skin, too. Consider swapping out your regular moisturizer for aloe after bathing to help seal moisture into your skin. 6. Frostbite

Key considerations

If you have anal fissures, applying an aloe vera cream to the affected area several times throughout the day may help promote healing. But with that being said, she explains that it’s still a wonderful addition to skincare products, so don’t hesitate if it's listed as one of the ingredients. As with eczema, aloe vera may help alleviate inflammation and itchiness from psoriasis. For best results, apply aloe vera gel twice daily to the affected area of skin. 10. Inflammatory acne It’s relatively simple to harvest an aloe plant for gel and juice. You’ll need a mature plant that’s at least a few years old. This ensures a higher concentration of the active ingredients.

The laxative effect of aloe vera latex has the potential to cause diarrhea and abdominal cramps. These effects could inhibit the absorption of oral drugs and reduce their effectiveness. Several studies have supported aloe latex’s effectiveness for treating constipation, although one of these positive studies looked at aloe in combination with celandine and psyllium rather than on its own. 6Fragrance: Aloe vera gel has no strong odor of its own and is best without any added chemical fragrances. However, there are products with added essential oils such as lavender, lemongrass, citrus, or jasmine that provide fragrance and additional skin-soothing benefits. Carefully follow the dosage information when taking aloe vera gel or latex internally. Limit your use to small periods of time. After a few weeks of use, take a break for at least one week. Always buy from a reputable brand to ensure safety and quality. Although aloe vera soothes skin for most people, some can experience itching, burning, and skin irritation. 28 Many brands of aloe vera gel use organic ingredients, meaning the aloe was grown without chemical fertilizers or pesticides, which can be harmful to the environment and your skin. Choose an organic brand for the purest ingredients. FAQ Q. Does aloe vera gel have an odor? As a cream, gel, or ointment applied topically, aloe vera is safe to use as needed so long as you aren’t experiencing a skin reaction.

A. Furry friends can benefit from aloe vera gel’s soothing properties. Note that you should only use aloe vera gel on your pet, not aloe vera juice or fresh aloe vera leaves, as the sap can be toxic to cats and dogs. Aloe vera has also been shown to reduce the time it takes for minor burns to heal. One study found that aloe vera application could shorten burn healing time by up to nine days. 8 Results of a 2017 study found that people who used an aloe vera toothpaste showed significant improvements to their oral health.The best aloe vera gel can calm pain from sunburn and nourish the skin. But aloe vera benefits for skin go way beyond these two examples. This powerful plant contains skin-soothing vitamins and antioxidants that work over time to keep your skin healthy and hydrated.