Aloe vera gel is a champion multitasker: The gooey stuff can do so
much more than soothe a sunburn. Whether you pick up a bottle of 100% pure aloe vera
($6)—or buy a potted plant (for around $10) and use the juice from cut
leaves as needed—it’s worth every penny. You can use aloe vera on
everything from acne to minor wounds to irritation caused by eczema or
rosacea. It can even help zap a cold sore. Read on for seven
dermatologist-approved tips.
[post_ads_2]1. Aloe vera can help clear up breakouts.
Aloe vera contains salicylic acid and other antiseptic compounds that
kill off the bacteria that cause acne, says Francesca Fusco, MD, an
assistant clinical professor of dermatology at Mount Sinai Hospital in
New York City. That makes it a great natural remedy for breakouts, and
an excellent cleanser for the skin. One caveat: Before you apply aloe
vera to inflamed skin, do a patch test elsewhere in your body. In rare
cases, it can cause a reaction in highly sensitive people, says Dr.
Fusco.
2. It moisturizes dry skin.
Aloe vera is packed with minerals, enzymes, antioxidants, and
vitamins A, C, and E, which all work together to reinforce the skin’s
barrier. “It’s incredibly moisturizing,” says Debra Jaliman, MD, a
dermatologist in New York City and author of Skin Rules.
Aloe also contains polyphenols, which appear to protect against skin
cancer and free radicals that age the skin, says Dr. Jaliman.
3. It can soothe irritated skin.
Conditions like rosacea, eczema, and psoriasis are often
linked to dryness and inflammation. Aloe vera’s fatty acids, along with
an enzyme called bradykinin, can help calm the skin, says Dr. Fusco.
[post_ads_2]4. Apply it to minor burns and wounds.
In addition to antibacterial properties, aloe vera contains compounds
that can reduce inflammation, says Dr. Fusco. The juice is also super
hydrating, so it may help boost the skin’s elasticity as it heals. One
review of scientific research found that aloe vera sped up the rate of healing for minor burn wounds by almost nine days.
But other studies have shown mixed results in terms of the plant’s
healing powers—so it’s best to use it only on minor wounds and burns.
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5. Treat a cold sore.
The plant’s antiviral properties may help fight off the herpes virus. Aloe can also provide soothing relief, and cover and protect the irritated skin.
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6. Use it as a shaving cream.
Thanks to its gel texture, aloe vera makes a great hydrating shave
cream. Its antibacterial properties mean it’s also beneficial for small
razor nicks, says Dr. Jaliman.
7. Or a natural makeup remover.
Since aloe vera is gentle on the skin and has a gel-like consistency,
it works well as a natural makeup remover. Smooth it on and wipe off
with a washcloth to cleanse and moisturize at the same time. “It’s
anti-aging and moisturizing, making it a perfect beauty
product,” says Dr. Jaliman. “And it’s a good alternative for people who
have sensitive skin and can have reactions to ingredients in standard
makeup removers.”
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