Let ALOE VERA work its magic

  • 09 Dec - 15 Dec, 2017
  • Mag The Weekly
  • Beauty

Aloe vera is a cactus plant that belongs to the Liliaceae family. It grows in dry climates such as those found in parts of Africa and India, and has been used medicinally for centuries. Aloe leaves secrete a clear gel that when broken off from the rest of the plant can be applied topically to heal wounds and soothe the skin. This makes it effective in treating a variety of skin conditions, from flaky or dry skin, cosmetic ailments, hair and scalp problems to many more.

1. It treats sunburn

Aloe Vera helps with sunburn through its powerful healing activity at the epithelial level of the skin, a layer of cells that covers the body. It acts as a protective layer on the skin and helps replenish its moisture. Because of its nutritional qualities and antioxidant properties, the skin heals quicker.

2. It acts as a moisturiser

Aloe moisturises the skin without giving it a greasy feel, so it is perfect for anyone with an oily skin. For women who use mineral-based make-up, aloe vera acts as a moisturiser and is great for the face prior to the application of products to prevent skin from dryness. For men, aloe vera gel can be used as an aftershave treatment, as its healing properties can treat small cuts caused by shaving.

3. It fights aging

As we age, everyone begins to worry about the appearance of fine lines and the loss of elasticity in their skin. Aloe leaves contain a plethora of antioxidants, including beta carotene and vitamin C and E that can help improve the skin's natural firmness and keep the skin hydrated.

4. It lessens the visibility of stretch marks

The skin is like one big piece of elastic that will expand and contract as needed to accommodate growth. But if the skin stretches too far, too fast (due to pregnancy, rapid weight gain or loss), the elasticity of the skin can be damaged. This is what leaves those unsightly stretch marks. These marks appear due to minor tears in the layers of the skin caused by sudden and excessive stretching. Aloe vera gel can help hide these stretch marks by healing these wounds.

5. It treats acne

Aloe vera gel contains two hormones: auxin and gibberellins. These hormones provide wound healing and anti-inflammatory properties. Giberellin in aloe vera acts as a growth hormone stimulating the growth of new cells. It allows the skin to heal quickly and naturally with minimal scarring. Aloe is soothing and can reduce skin inflammations, blistering and itchiness, while helping the skin to heal more rapidly. Additionally, in Ayurvedic medicine, Aloe is used to effectively heal chronic skin problems, such as psoriasis, acne and eczema.

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