Aloe Vera: Nature’s Balm
Aloe vera gel is obtained naturally from the aloe vera plant and has been used since the time of the ancient Egyptians to help soothe and heal the skin. In fact, the ancient Egyptians had so much faith in this humble plant that they named it the plant of immortality. Aloe vera is actually a type of cactus that is part of the Liliaceae family and grows in dry climates throughout Asia and Africa. When the leaves of the plant are broken they secrete a clear gel that is used to treat sunburn and help heal the skin. These days, aloe vera gel can be found as a major ingredient in a wide range of different types of skin lotions, body balms and other organic products. Read on to discover the many different uses for aloe vera gel in natural skin care.
Aloe Vera to Treat Sunburn
Aloe Vera boasts powerful healing activity that works at the epithelial level of the skin to effectively treat sunburn. The gel acts as a protective layer on the skin that helps to replenish the moisture that is lost through prolonged exposure to the sun. Due to the nutritional qualities and antioxidant properties in aloe vera the skin is able to heal more quickly and the sore burning sensation is quickly alleviated. Some types of suntan lotion also include aloe vera gel to help protect the skin while having fun in the sun.
Aloe Vera as a Moisturiser
Aloe vera gel contains special properties that are effective in treating a wide range of skin conditions from dry skin to rashes and much more. The gel lightly moisturises the skin without making it greasy and is ideal for anyone who suffers from oily skin. Aloe vera gel is so gentle on the skin that it can be used as a natural moisturising balm after shavings as well as a balm that can be used on all parts of the skin as often as needed to provide extra moisture throughout the day.
Aloe Vera to Treat Acne
The hormones Auxin and Gibberellins that are naturally present in aloe vera gel provide special wound healing and anti-inflammatory properties that help to reduce skin inflammation. The Giberellin hormone in aloe vera also acts as a growth hormone that stimulates the growth of new cells. This hormone allows the skin to heal very quickly and naturally with minimal scarring. Aloe vera gel is often used in Ayurvedic medicine to heal chronic skin conditions such as acne, eczema and even psoriasis.
Aloe Vera to Reduce Stretch Marks
The abundance of antioxidants such as beta carotene, vitamin C and E that are found in aloe vera gel can help improve the natural firmness of the skin and keep it hydrated. This in turn minimises the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles that are one of the most obvious skins of aging and therefore regular use of aloe vera gel on the face, hands and other parts of the body can help to make the skin look younger and firmer.
Aloe Vera to Rejuvenate the Skin
When the skin becomes stretched too quickly due to paid weight gain or pregnancy, the elasticity of the skin can become damaged and the result is unsightly stretch marks. These marks are the product of small tears in the layers of the skin. The wound healing properties in aloe vera gel work their magic on stretch marks and help to hide them effectively.
If you are looking for a natural way to improve the look, feel and overall vitality of your skin, natural products that are infused with aloe vera could well be the perfect solution. This completely natural ingredient is ideal for all skin types, which means that even people who have very sensitive skin can use it with confidence.
