We asked experts to recommend some of the best Aloe Vera Gel products that could help soothe, hydrate, and clear up our skin and face!
Table of Contents
A commercial gel made of 100% aloe doesn’t exist. This is possible only when the gel is directly extracted from the plant with no further processing, but in that form, it cannot be commercialized since it isn’t preserved. Without a preservative, the gel would quickly grow bacteria, yeast, and mold and it wouldn’t be safe.
This is how it’s done in the industry:
Cosmetic chemists use a dry powder that is made from the aloe gel extracted by the plant (the aloe gel is extracted, concentrated by evaporation and freeze-dried into said powder). The cosmetic chemists reconstitute the aloe gel by adding the powder to water, making the aloe juice. The juice is then gelled with a gelling agent, for example, carbomer, the pH is adjusted and a preservative is added to be commercialized. So, since to make a commercial aloe gel at minimum a gelling agent and a preservative are required, a gel made of 100% alone can never exist.
Many articles convince people that if the water is the first ingredient in the gel, that’s a filler and the gel is a scam. That’s the furthest from the truth. Water is the solvent for the aloe powder. Only with water, the aloe juice can be reconstituted. Often the aloe powder used is 200x, that means that to make 100 grams of aloe juice, 0.5g of aloe powder is dissolved in 99.5g of water.
Now, this seems a very little amount of aloe, but that is actually the exact concentration to recreate the aloe juice from the plant. So, an ingredients list where water is in the first place and aloe extract at the bottom is a correct ingredients list. Many companies list “aloe barbadensis juice” at the top, that is still made of 99.5% water and 0.5% aloe extract.
Aromatica Organic Aloe Vera Gel
This is one of the purest, and therefore basic, formulations for aloe gel. This is an aloe juice gelled and preserved. It’s Ecocert certified.
Jason 98% Aloe Vera Moisturizing Gel
The reason why I like it is that, besides aloe, it contains two great ingredients: Panthenol (provitamin B5) promotes wound healing and allantoin is hydrating, protective, anti-inflammatory and it relieves irritation and redness. It’s a wonderful ingredient that works at very low concentrations.
Amara Beauty Aloe Vera Gel
It is the best around. It’s great for the face and body. It has a very thin preparation, which is easy to spread. Plus, it’s relatively inexpensive!
Elizabeth Muirhead
Health Content Lead, BiologyDictionary.net
Aubrey Organics Pure Aloe Vera Gel
It helps keep my skin clear, and it’s also been really beneficial for my nieces’ acne. It’s vegan-friendly and all organic, so I don’t have to worry about any pesticides or insecticides being used on the aloe vera plant.
As a biologist, this is important to me because our skin is our largest organ and its heavily porous. I hope this recommendation helps someone.
David Newell
Operations Manager, Travertine Spa
Travertine Spa Collection’s Facial Moisturizer with Aloe and Sea Minerals
In addition to the soothing and cooling properties of organic aloe vera, ultra-moisturizing ingredients like shea butter and jojoba oil nourish deep down to seal in moisture and regulate oil production. Vitamin-rich sea minerals provide antioxidants and restore pH balance.
Populum’s Cold Therapy Hemp Rub
I use it almost every night on my lower back and neck. I have an office job, so it really helps after sitting all day! We know a lot of athletes use it too – especially after hard workouts. It has simple ingredients – aloe, hemp, arnica and chamomile and is made in the U.S. This is recommended for skin, but I would not recommend for use on your face.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I use aloe vera gel on my face and skin?
Here are some tips for using aloe vera gel on your face and skin:
Cleanse your face and skin before applying aloe vera gel.
Apply a small amount of the gel to your face and skin and gently massage it in.
Let the gel absorb into your skin for a few minutes before applying other products.
Use aloe vera gel as a moisturizer, serum, or mask, depending on your skin type and needs.
Use aloe vera gel regularly to achieve the best results.
Can I use aloe vera gel on sensitive skin?
Yes, aloe vera gel is gentle and safe to use on sensitive skin. In fact, because of its anti-inflammatory and soothing properties, it can be especially useful for people with sensitive skin. However, if you suffer from a severe skin condition or allergy, it’s best to consult your dermatologist before using aloe vera gel or any other new product on your skin.
Can aloe vera gel be used as a makeup primer?
Yes, aloe vera gel can be used as a makeup primer because it moisturizes and soothes the skin, creating a smooth base for makeup application. Simply apply a small amount of aloe vera gel to your face and skin after cleansing and before applying your makeup.
Can aloe vera gel be used to treat acne?
Yes, aloe vera gel can effectively treat acne due to its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. It can help reduce redness and inflammation as well as prevent further breakouts. To use aloe vera gel for acne, apply a small amount to the affected area after cleansing and before moisturizing.
Are there any side effects of using aloe vera gel on the face and skin?
Aloe vera gel is generally safe to use on the face and skin, but some people may experience allergic reactions or irritation. If you experience any itching, redness, or swelling after using aloe vera gel, stop using it immediately and consult your dermatologist.
How should I store my aloe vera gel?
Aloe vera gel should be stored in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. It’s best to store it in the refrigerator, as the cool temperature will help preserve the gel and prolong its shelf life. However, make sure to keep the gel in a tightly sealed container to avoid contamination.