Aloe Vera and Acne

Aloe vera also known as medicinal aloe, is a type of succulent plant. Succulent plants refer to those plants which can store water in their leaves, stems or roots, which in turn gives them a swollen and fleshy appearance. Aloe is actually the name of a genus that contains around 400 species of succulent flowering plants, out of which the most common is the aloe vera, also known as true vera. The plant is supposed to have originated in Northern Africa, Madagascar and Arabian peninsula.

Aloe Vera and Acne

The plant aloe vera has been in use for many centuries as an essential ingredient in herbal or alternative medicines. It was used by the ancient Greeks and Romans for treating wounds. Some clay tablets dating back to 1750 BC have been discovered regarding the medicinal uses of aloe vera. Another written evidence that goes back to 74 BC was also discovered, in which a Greek physician mentioned the applications of this magic herb in curing skin infections, burns and reducing hair loss. However, the first scientific report about the medical uses of aloe vera was published in 1935. Nowadays, aloe vera has become the subject of many studies and researches, which are conducted to unveil the possibilities of using aloe vera in treating various ailments, particularly those related to skin and hair.

Aloe vera is well-known for its soothing, healing and moisturizing properties. It has also been found to act as an immune booster and anti-inflammatory agent, and hence facilitates the regeneration of skin. Aloe vera is effective in alleviating symptoms associated with acne and acne scars, considered the worst skin problems faced by teenagers. Acne generally starts appearing with the onset of puberty, due to hormonal changes taking place within the body, and is very common among teenagers. It reduces slowly as they get older. Though aloe vera cannot cure pimples and acne, it is effective in reducing the inflammation and redness. Magnesium lactate, an itch inhibitor is present in aloe vera, which is helpful in treating acne, sunburns and rashes. Due to its regenerative property, aloe vera helps the skin to repair itself and is beneficial in removing acne scars and pimples. Aloe vera has also been found to lighten the skin pigmentation and stimulate the production of collagen and elastin. Collagen and elastin are fibrous proteins that are responsible for connecting as well as supporting other tissues in the body. Aloe vera, by facilitating the production of these proteins, can be used to prevent or delay the appearance of wrinkles.

Aloe vera has been a part of traditional medicine not only to treat skin problems, but also for a number of diseases like heartburn, irritable bowel syndrome, wounds, etc. Besides, it is also supposed to have beneficial effects in diabetes, arthritis, genital herpes and psoriasis. However, the most common and popular usage of aloe vera has always been in alleviating skin problems, and today a wide range of aloe products are available that include moisturizers, soaps, sunscreens, creams, etc. It is also used as an ingredient in many shampoos and juices.

So far, no side effect of aloe vera has been discovered, except for the compound aloin contained in aloe vera, which can cause some side effects, when taken internally. However, aloin is usually removed during processing. Besides skin products, aloe vera juice is also believed to be highly effective in enhancing the quality of skin, making it more radiant by removing spots, blackheads and pimples as it contains antioxidants, which help to detoxify the body.