For thousands of years, aloe vera has been treasured as a skin care savior. Ancient Egyptians even called it “the plant of immortality!” Today, however, aloe vera is known less for its skin care-boosting potential and more for its summer counterpart: aloe gel.

While aloe vera works extremely well to soothe skin and keep it moisturized when you find yourself with irritated skin from sun exposure, high heat or dryness, there are even more benefits of aloe vera.

Proceed with caution, however. Modern myths lurk near the true benefits of aloe vera that inflate the truth. One such myth is that aloe vera can heal skin. Dr. Joel Schlessinger, board-certified dermatologist and CEO of LovelySkin.com, says:

“There’s a lot of debate when it comes to the healing properties of aloe vera. There isn’t a lot of research to maintain that it physically heals the skin. Also, the more aloe mucilage is processed, the fewer benefits it offers. With that being said, I’d advise that you look for products that contain aloe vera extracts higher up on the list of ingredients to ensure you’re receiving the most benefits. I use it frequently for my patients with sunburn, and it seems to help greatly. If you ever have the ability to get the actual leaf of the aloe plant, that too can assist with a wide variety of irritating conditions!”

What is aloe vera good for?

1. It’s an antioxidant powerhouse

Antioxidants are a must-have in every skin care routine. They’re full of benefits for the skin, like defending against free radicals and boosting the power of your sunscreen. However, when antioxidants work together, they boost one another’s power to provide even more benefits. The array of vitamins in aloe help with:

• Boosting collagen production
• Improving skin’s moisture barrier
• Protecting skin against infection
• Encouraging healthy cell reproduction and more!

2. It helps reduce inflammation and disinfect skin

It makes sense we reach for the aloe vera any time our skin is feeling a little reactive. While we never wish sunburn on anyone, if it does happen, keep a cooling gel or spritz by your side! The properties of aloe reduce inflammation and soothe skin, making it ideal for anyone experiencing discomfort or sensitivity.

If you’ve ever had a wax or procedure that may irritate the skin, the soothing treatment applied afterwards often contains aloe vera. In addition to calming the skin, aloe’s antibacterial properties also help disinfect minor skin conditions such as acne, small shaving nicks and minor burns.

3. It has moisturizing properties

Did you know aloe vera is made of more than 95% water? Since aloe vera is similar in composition to the cactus plant, it doesn’t require a lot of water. Due to its shallow root system, it is able to soak up water and hold onto it for longer. Skin care products with aloe provide that natural moisture without a heavy or greasy feeling, making it an excellent moisturizer for all skin types, especially those with oily, normal or sensitive skin.

Incorporate the soothing properties of aloe vera into a skin care regimen with one or more of these skin-calming products.

Vichy Pore Purifying Mineral Clay Mask: Eliminate impurities with this kaolin- and bentonite-powered clay mask that balances sebum protection while softening and soothing skin. Aloe vera comforts and hydrates while mineral-rich Vichy Mineralizing Water strengthens skin’s barrier and protects against environmental aggressors.

GLOWBIOTICS MD Probiotic Revitalizing Cleanser: This lightweight cleanser contains a blend of prebiotics and probiotics to hydrate and balance skin while aloe vera soothes and calms skin of all types. Sulfate-free and peptide-rich, this redness-reducing cleanser helps regulate cell activity while improving the appearance of dull, aging skin.

SkinCeuticals Eye Balm: Stimulate collagen production and prevent moisture loss with this soothing eye balm that nourishes delicate, dry skin while firming and soothing. The rich formula hydrates with vitamin E and aloe vera while soy isoflavones improve skin’s firmness and provide antioxidant protection against free radical damage.

SUZANOBAGIMD Soothing Complex SPF 25: Protect, soothe and heal skin with this lightweight, broad-spectrum complex featuring a delicate tint that’s suitable for all skin types and tones. Hyaluronic acid and aloe lock in moisture to soothe dry, sensitive skin in this 100% physical sunscreen that blurs imperfections while improving skin’s hydration levels.

Oxygenetix Acne Control Foundation: Achieve breathable coverage with this foundation that heals skin and conceals existing acne without clogging pores or causing blemishes. The acne-fighting formula contains CeraVitae, an oxygen complex that improves collagen synthesis, as well as 2% salicylic acid to clear breakouts while aloe soothes and heals skin.

Dermablend Power-Setter 2-in-1 Makeup Setting Spray: Seal your look with this setting spray that weightlessly keeps makeup in place all day. Enriched with aloe, this oil-free spray soothes skin and enhances your look, regardless of skin type or tone. The dermatologist-tested formula is fragrance- and oil-free and won’t clog pores, making it a must for all makeup bags!

Glo Skin Beauty Lip Gloss: Ultra nourishing and antioxidant-rich, this conditioning lip gloss contains a blend of mineral pigments and aloe vera to hydrate skin while providing a high-shine finish. Available in over twenty shades that range from sheer to opaque, this must-have gloss finishes looks from subtle to sultry.

Want to learn more about how to soothe irritated skin? Check out more on our blog!