Aloe Vera
Gel from aloe leaves containing polysaccharides, vitamins, and amino acids. Moisturizes, soothes irritated skin, and accelerates healing of minor injuries.
Evidence by route
Topical application
Systematic reviews of burns and minor wounds show moderate healing effects. Evidence for acne and photoaging is weak. Gel standardization across manufacturers is difficult – composition varies widely with processing.
- Maenthaisong R et al. Burns. 2007;33(6):713-718. PMID 17499928
How to read tiers A–F
- BLimited evidence. One RCT or several controlled studies with limitations
Tolerability and safety
- Irritation potential
- Low
- Allergen risk
- Low
- Pregnancy
- Safe
- Suitable for
- Sensitive, Dry, Normal, Combination, Oily
About this ingredient
Aloe Vera (Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice) is the gel from the inner part of the Aloe barbadensis leaf. Contains 99% water and 1% active components: polysaccharides (acemannan, glucomannan), anthraquinones (aloin, barbaloin), enzymes, amino acids, vitamins C and E. Mechanism. Acemannan stimulates fibroblasts and keratinocytes, accelerates healing of wounds and erosions. Polysaccharides bind water and form a thin film on the skin – humectant + light occlusive. Anti-inflammatory action via suppression of prostaglandins and thromboxane. Antibacterial action against S. aureus and P. acnes (in vitro). Where applied. After-sun and sunburn repair gels (50–99%), creams and serums for atopy, acne, rosacea, post-procedure products, masks. Brands: Sesderma Hidraderm Aloe, Mesoestetic Aloe Gel, La Roche-Posay Posthelios, Avène Aftersun. In Spain, Canary Islands 100% gels are popular. Evidence base. Cochrane 2012 (n=347) showed 8 days faster healing in first- and second-degree burns vs control. Maenthaisong 2007 (meta-analysis) confirmed effect on sunburn and superficial wounds. Vogler 1999 in psoriasis showed moderate PASI reduction. In acne – Hajheydari 2014 (n=60, 8 weeks, 50% aloe + tretinoin) showed improvement vs tretinoin alone. Safety. CIR confirmed safety at up to 99% provided aloin is removed (an anthraquinone with potential carcinogenicity on oral use). Hypoallergenic, non-comedogenic. Contact dermatitis is rare (1–3%). Pregnancy and lactation – topically safe. One of the most recommended ingredients for gestational sunburn, acne, and eczema. Oral aloe is contraindicated in pregnancy (anthraquinones induce uterine contractions). Particularly suitable for. Sunburn, post-procedure recovery, mild acne, mild atopy, sensitive skin. Often combined with panthenol, centella, allantoin – additive wound-healing effects.
Frequently asked questions
Is Aloe Vera safe during pregnancy?
Aloe Vera is considered safe during pregnancy at typical cosmetic concentrations. Systemic absorption through the skin is minimal.
What skin types is Aloe Vera for?
Aloe Vera suits: sensitive, dry, normal, combination, oily.
What is Aloe Vera and what does it do in cosmetics?
Gel from aloe leaves containing polysaccharides, vitamins, and amino acids.
What's the INCI name for Aloe Vera?
The INCI name is Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice. It may also appear as: Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Powder, Aloe Vera Leaf Juice.
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Soothing, Moisturizing, Rosacea-friendly, Post-procedure recovery, Post-sunburn repair
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