Beauty Ingredients Dictionary: Is Aloe Vera Overrated? We Investigate

We dare to say that most of you have slathered the green gooey gel all over your face. Indeed, we’re talking about aloe vera, a staple botanical plant that is mostly grown in our backyard. The usage of aloe vera for healing purposes has been traced in various cultures for centuries. With its prominence compared to other ingredients, it is safe to say that aloe vera is often regarded as the superhero that can treat all types of skin issues. There are tons of newly released products that feature formulations that include aloe vera. But have we over-hype its benefits? Below, Beauty Insider gathered everything that you need to know about using aloe vera for skin and whether it is worth the hype or not.

Brief Information

What is the main benefit?

Aloe vera is known for its calming, soothing and hydrating properties

Who should use it?

It is suitable for those who are looking for extra hydration as well as relieve redness and inflammation

How to use it?

You can simply apply the product that contains aloe vera according to the instruction. However, you need to be wary when you use the gel straight from the plant. Make sure to follow the necessary methods to avoid any adverse side effects

What is Aloe Vera?

Aloe vera is a botanical plant that contains essential vitamins, minerals, amino acids, phytosterols and polysaccharides. There are about 420 aloe vera species and the most common type that is used for the skin is Aloe Barbadensis Miller. Lauded as the cure-all ingredient, its gel or extract is often used to treat several types of skin conditions from acne, ageing to dryness. There are a plethora of skincare products that are formulated with aloe vera extract including moisturizers, sheet masks to body lotion.

The difference between the over-the-counter products and fresh aloe vera gel will certainly make anyone scratch their head. Although it merely depends on the product’s formulation, bottled aloe vera gel is different as it features additional ingredients to prolong the shelf life.

Whether you prefer the aloe vera in its freshest form or store-bought, it is entirely up to your preference. But if you prefer the latter, the key is to look out for a product that listed aloe vera as its main ingredient. Even though aloe vera is highly raved by the beauty community, its effectiveness for the skin is still lacking in terms of research studies.

What are the Benefits of Aloe Vera?

Despite its benefits not being sufficiently proven by research studies, aloe vera is known to deliver such astounding benefits:

• Minimize the appearance of acne scars and dark spots
• Delivers intense hydration to the skin when applied
• Soothes sunburn, itchiness and inflamed skin
• Treat and prevent acne
• Effectively prevents transepidermal water loss
• Improve skin elasticity

What are the Side Effects of Aloe Vera?

Similar to other skincare ingredients, some people may develop adverse skin reactions to aloe vera. Hence, it is imperative that you do a patch test before incorporating any products infused with aloe vera beforehand. Some people might experience several symptoms if they have allergies to aloe vera like itchiness, hives and even rashes.

The Best Products With Aloe Vera That You Need To Try Out

Cosrx Aloe Soothing Sun Cream SPF50 PA+++

Cosrx Aloe Soothing Sun Cream SPF50 PA+++ is a cult favourite sunscreen that is formulated with Aloe Arborescens Leaf Extract. It has a lightweight consistency and easily absorbs into the skin, without leaving any white cast on the face. This sunscreen also is packed with soothing and hydrating benefits

Why we love it:

• Compact size
• Lightweight
• It can be worn all year long

Price: $17.50 (Original price $19.90)

Reternhair Balancing Shampoo

If you’re looking for the best shampoo that is infused with aloe vera, you need to try out the Reternhair Balancing Shampoo. It contains lavender which is known for its antimicrobial properties. Plus, this ingredient also works wonders to stimulate hair growth and blood circulation. Enhanced with rosemary, it soothes dry scalp and prevents premature greying. With its gentle and mild formulation, you can even use it for your little ones.

Why we love it:

• Features anti-inflammatory properties
• Protect the hair from UV rays
• Gentle and mild

Price: $49.00 – $149.00

Je Skincare & Cosmetics Aloe Vera Mask

Je Skincare & Cosmetics Aloe Vera Mask helps to soothe and calm the skin, leaving you with a healthy and radiant-looking complexion. It quickly sinks into the skin and delivers intense hydration. Simply apply to your face and neck for about 30 minutes before rinsing it off. If you prefer a boost of hydration, you can use it as an overnight mask.

Why we love it:

• Instantly soothes the skin
• Features non-sticky consistency
• Effectively hydrates the skin

Price: $55.00

Privia Skin Recovery Face Powder No. 21

Privia Skin Recovery Face Powder No. 21 is formulated with nourishing and hydrating ingredients that ensure your skin looks healthy. It features aloe vera to soothe the skin and prevent acne, whereas vitamin E is added for its antioxidant properties. This ultralightweight face powder also contains allantoin which is known to do wonders for the skin

Why we love it:

• Features SPF 22
• Retains moisture level
• Comes with a portable puff

Price: $19.35 (Original price $38.70)

Twisted Dua Vegan Aloe Felted Soap (Mango)

If you’re into a vegan and cruelty-free product, you will definitely love the Twisted Dua Vegan Aloe Felted Soap (Mango)! It has a sweet mango scent that reminds you of tropical and sandy beaches. Furthermore, it also contains aloe vera to soothe the skin.

Why we love it:

• Handmade
• Wrapped in wool which functions as an exfoliator
• Vegan formulation

Price: $18.00 (Original price $20.00)

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