Aloe vera is a succulent plant whose inner leaf gel has been valued for centuries for its soothing, hydrating and skin-repairing properties. The gel is rich in water (~99 %) plus a complex mix of polysaccharides, amino acids, vitamins (A, C, E, B12), enzymes, minerals and phenolic compounds. In skincare formulations it appears as aloe vera leaf extract, aloe vera gel or aloe vera juice.
What it does
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Hydrates & moisturises: The gel’s high water content and mucopolysaccharides help bind moisture to the skin and improve skin barrier retention.
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Soothes irritation & inflammation: Aloe vera has been shown to reduce redness, mild burn damage (including sunburn), and skin-irritation symptoms thanks to anti-inflammatory compounds.
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Supports wound healing & skin repair: Studies indicate aloe stimulates fibroblasts, increases collagen synthesis and enhances the skin’s healing response after injury.
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Mild exfoliation & pore support: Containing natural salicylic acid and other botanicals, it may assist in gentle exfoliation and support clearer skin.
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Antioxidant & antimicrobial support: Aloe’s vitamins and phenolics offer protection against oxidative stress. Some research shows antimicrobial effects on skin-surface microbes.
How it works (short version)
When applied topically, aloe vera gel creates a hydrating film on the skin surface, enabling better water retention. Its polysaccharides (e.g., glucomannan) interact with fibroblasts and stimulate collagen/elastin production, aiding repair. At the same time, its anti-inflammatory pathways help suppress prostaglandins and oxidative stress (e.g., by enhancing antioxidant enzyme activity).The combination leads to calmer, more resilient skin with improved barrier and texture.
Sensory & suitability
Aloe vera delivers a light, almost watery gel texture that absorbs quickly and leaves minimal residue, making it appealing for all skin types — especially sensitive, irritated, sun-exposed or post-treatment skin. Because of its mild profile, it suits dry, combination and oily skin alike. That said, while very gentle, individuals with sensitivities (especially to plants in the lily family) should patch test before use.
Formulation notes
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Ensure the extract or gel is stabilised (polysaccharides degrade easily when exposed to heat/oxygen).
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Pair aloe with humectants (glycerin, hyaluronic acid) or light emollients for a balanced feel.
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Ideal for use in soothing serums, post-sun lotions, calming masks, or hair/scalp treatments.
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Because of its mild action, performance may be subtle and gradual — not a deep corrective actives.
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Packaging: Choose opaque/pump containers to protect the integrity of active compounds.
Complementary actives & routine fit
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Use alongside broad-spectrum sunscreen (a must when skin is irritated or regenerating).
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Combine with barrier-support actives (ceramides, niacinamide) for compromised skin.
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Layer with gentle exfoliants (PHA, low-dose AHA) but give skin time to recover.
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In hair/scalp care, pair with peptides or botanical oils to support scalp health and hydration.
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Ideal for morning and/or evening routines; after cleansing, before heavier creams.
Sustainability & sourcing
Aloe vera is relatively sustainable: the plant is drought-tolerant and yields high volumes of gel per leaf, making it a renewable botanical resource. For formula credibility, check for certifications, low-impact extraction, minimal preservative load and traceable sourcing. Brands committed to sustainable practices emphasise minimal waste, fair labour and eco-conscious packaging when using aloe-derived ingredients.
Properties
Anti-inflammatory, Moisturizing, Emollient, Wound healing
INCI Name
Aloe barbadensis Leaf Extract
