Benefits of Aloe Vera for face

Aloe vera has anti-inflammatory properties which help in reducing inflammation around the pimples. Lupeol, a plant steroid found in aloe vera, has antiseptic properties which help in killing the microbes responsible for pimples. It not only treats pimples but also helps in reducing acne marks.

Sunburn is an injury to the skin due to overexposure to the sun. It results in inflammation, tightness and evaporation of water from the skin. Studies have concluded that aloe vera has the ability to heal sunburns. It prevents the peeling of the skin which is normally seen in people with sunburns. Aloe vera locks the moisture of the skin and allows faster healing of the burnt area. It also gives a cooling effect when applied to the burnt portion of the skin.

Natural anthraquinones like aloin present in aloe vera act as a depigmenting component and help in the reduction of patches and dark spots present on the face. They destroy excess melanin present on the skin's surface and prevent further formation of melanin.

Phytosterols present in aloe vera help soothe itchiness and irritation on the skin. It also helps in preventing the trans-epidermal water loss (TEWL), which is the evaporation of water from the surface of the skin. Aloe vera provides a protective barrier over the skin, thus preventing the evaporation of water and keeping the face naturally moisturised.

Fine lines, wrinkles, sagging skin and blemishes are some of the common signs of ageing. Aloe vera has the ability to reduce the signs of ageing as it helps in the activation of fibroblasts.

Once activated, fibroblasts form collagen and elastin fibres which help in increasing the elasticity of the skin, thus reducing wrinkles. It also binds the cells together which otherwise die and flake off. This helps in softening the skin.

Our faces are prone to minor cuts and scrapes, or even the occasion minor burn from a drop of hot oil while cooking, or suffer a scratch from a pet’s paws while playing. In such cases, aloe vera can help in faster healing of the burn, scratch or wound. Two out of the five plant hormones of aloe vera, Auxin and Gibberellins, act as a healing agent and promote the growth of new skin cells. 

Also, aloe vera activates fibroblasts to make more and more collagen. Aloe vera gel not only increases the amount of collagen but also aids in the crosslinking of the fibres which are required for faster closing of the wound. 

After removing your makeup, you can use aloe vera to clean the skin as it not only removes all the dirt but also provides vital hydration. Because of its high water content, aloe vera also works as a serum. It helps in keeping the skin supple.

Amino acids present in aloe vera help in softening the hardened skin cells, making the pores of the skin softer. Also, the zinc content in aloe vera acts as an astringent which helps in tightening the pores.