Expert Advice: Why You Should Always Keep Aloe On Hand

Known for its moisturizing and soothing properties, aloe vera gel has been a go-to in the skin care world for thousands of years. Today, many of us associate the gel with soothing sunburns, but in all actuality, this cooling gel can do so much more than offer a little temporary relief. Fact is, the Ancient Greeks didn’t call it a universal remedy for nothing. Ahead, we share six benefits of aloe vera that showcase why it continues to rank as a star player in skin care and why you should always keep products formulated with it on hand.  

SOOTHE A SUNBURN 

Perhaps one of the most common uses for aloe vera gel is to soothe a sunburn. The gel helps to create a hydrating and cooling shield over the skin, providing a cool sensation and temporary relief. Throw a bottle of aloe vera gel in your beach bag—and keep one in your fridge—and apply to the skin after sun exposure! 

HYDRATE THE SKIN

Fun fact: the inner gel of an aloe vera plant is made up of 99% water, making it a must for dry skin! If you are experiencing tight-feeling, dry skin, snap an aloe vera leaf directly off the plant. Apply the gel that will ooze out directly to the dry areas. Follow up with a moisturizer or oil and allow your skin to reap the hydrating benefits. 

REDUCE THE APPEARANCE OF PUFFINESS 

Aloe vera contains cholesterol, campesterol, β-sisosterol, and lupeol— all fatty acids that can help to  reduce the appearance of puffy skin. If you are experiencing swelling on your complexion, you can apply the gel directly to your face— like a mask! You may also use it topically to anywhere else on your skin that might be experiencing swelling or puffiness. 

Editor’s tip: Instead of using the gel all over my face, I like to target specific areas— more specifically: my under-eye bags. I always keep a small jar of aloe vera gel in the fridge and about 3-4 times a week, I apply a thick layer under my eyes as a simple under-eye mask. This helps to de-puffy my puffy under-eye bags. 

PROTECT THE SKIN

Think of aloe vera as your skin’s insurance policy. It’s contains antioxidant-rich vitamins which can aid in shielding the skin from environmental aggressors and may also target those premature signs of skin aging we all dread (think: fine lines, wrinkles, and dark spots). Use aloe vera on your face and neck as a hydrating moisturizer that can soothe and protect the complexion from these environmental aggressors.