Aloe: It’s Not Just For Sunburns
I’m fairly certain we all have a bottle of green or blue aloe vera gel maybe from Banana Boat purchased on vacation somewhere. You know, the bottle that was purchased after baking in the sun all day to become a red lobster? We have ALL been there at one time or another. We generously layered aloe on that burn every hour, then forget all about the aloe once that burn turns into a tan. Well I’m here to tell you, that Aloe Vera gel is not just for sunburns, but is an affordable anti-aging serum that should be used daily all over the body and face, especially during summer months.
Benefits of using aloe topically on the skin:
Soothing - aloe will cool and calm the skin, bringing down redness and the hot temperature of the skin. That is why it works well for sunburn, rashes, and bug-bites
Anti-aging - aloe is said to have over 75 trace vitamins and minerals which are all very beneficial for the skin. It is anti-aging in that is can help reduce the appearance of wrinkles and reduce dark spots with regular use.
Hydrating - aloe 99% water and is a humectant which means it retains moisture in the skin. Dryness is a major factor in the formation of wrinkles. Hydrating your skin in my opinion is one of the best ways to maintain a youthful and healthy complexion.
Protects Against UV Damage - After being outside and exposing yourself to harmful UV rays, it is suggested that applying aloe will help to neutralize the UV damage and help to fight off the effects UV can have on premature aging. UV damage can be seen in formation of wrinkles, dark spots, and loss of collagen and elastin in the skin.
Beneficial for Acne Prone Skin - aloe can help heal infected and inflamed pustules and help to reduce the acne scarring and redness from the breakout.
How I personally use it:
I keep a large 8oz bottle with me in the van and use it daily like a serum. After a long day outdoors at the beach, or hiking, I will shower, then follow with applying a thin layer of aloe gel to my entire body and face. I then follow with body lotion and my facial moisturizer to further seal and lock in the benefits of the aloe.
What to get:
That green bottle I mentioned earlier, that can be thrown away. You want to find a natural aloe that is clear, with no added colors…..(think about it, aloe gel from a plant doesn’t come out looking blue or green ;) I’ll link a few of my favorites below.