About Aloe Vera

It is unlikely that you have come across any natural skin care product that did not contain aloe vera in some form. Most commonly used as a gel, aloe vera is a component of numerous skin care creams and lotions. What is aloe vera and why is it so special in skin care?

Well, to put it very simply, aloe vera is a cactus like plant that belongs to the lily family. If you observe the aloe leaf carefully, you will find that it is succulent indicating that it holds a great amount of water within. Along with water aloe vera is packed to the brim with vitamins and minerals, making it extremely beneficial to the skin in a variety of ways.

Firstly, due to its high moisture content, aloe vera is your nest friend in treating dry skin conditions. Also it has skin lightening properties and can visibly reduce severity of spots and blemishes on your skin with regular application. But aloe vera is not all about beauty. It has important medicinal properties and is an effective healing agent for burns and insect bites.

What’s more is that its cooling effect helps in alleviating the burning sensation felt post a burn injury. Also its anti-inflammatory properties help reduce the swelling and redness post an insect bite or allergic reaction. Your doctor did recommend aloe vera gel for treating minor infections, didn’t he? Do you wonder why? Because of aloe’s strong anti-bacterial properties! Aloe vera gels can also be used to treat skin conditions like blisters and psoriasis. Can it get better than this?

Just when you were thinking that a plant cannot possibly have more benefits, Aloe vera surprises you. Aloe vera gel used as part of a regular skin care regime helps in keeping the skin healthy. Due to its moisturizing effect, aloe vera keeps the skin supple and ensures timely removal of dead cells from the skin surface, so that your skin glows. All you people out there, have aloe for that awesome glow.

Well, you can grow the aloe vera plant at home and use the leaf directly to squeeze out the sap and apply it on your skin. But if you don’t have the time or can’t be bothered, fret not. There are several good quality Aloe Vera for skin care formulations available in the market. A tip. Prior to making the purchase, just check the list of ingredients to ensure that aloe is the main ingredient and that there are not too many other synthetic ingredients in the formulation. As far as possible opt for the gel formulation, because it hydrates the skin without making it too oily.

According to historical references, Cleopatra used Aloe vera for her skin. And you are no less a queen (or king, in these gender equality days) than her. Go ahead, your aloe vera awaits you!

Ara Hovsepian is a fan of aloe vera and recommends it whole heartedly to family and friends and no prizes for guessing what he uses when he nicks his chin while shaving. For more information on Aloe Vera and skin care, visit www.about-aloevera.com.