Skincare Glossary: Is aloe vera really good for the skin?

When it comes to skincare ingredients, some of the really valuable ones are often overlooked (like azelaic acid, for example), while others are, well, sometimes a bit overrated. One ingredient that has amassed a large following supported by compelling testimonials is aloe vera itself: used in many different cultures throughout history for its potential healing properties, it has been touted as a miracle element for everything from treating acne to improving wrinkles, but--the question arises--does it really deserve all the praise it has garnered over time? Before you replace all your skincare products with a bottle of green gel, find out if aloe vera is the amazing ingredient it appears to be (or if it's a bit overrated).

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Let's first take a step back: what is aloe vera? Aloe vera is an ingredient of natural origin known for its soothing properties. It can be in powder, liquid, or gel form and can be found in products such as moisturizers and masks. Numerous elements are contained within aloe leaves, dissolved in a good amount of water: for example, in the gel we find ingredients such as mucilage, enzymes, vitamins, minerals, saponins, antioxidant agents, and amino acids. Because of its anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, it can be successfully used to provide relief to the skin in cases of skin conditions, but it can also be extremely useful in treating sunburn of various kinds and irritation resulting from insect bites, for example. Also renowned are the healing properties of aloe vera, which can be chosen as a natural remedy in case of small wounds, flaking and damaged skin: in fact, it seems that the substances contained in this plant stimulate skin cell renewal and growth, it is therefore indicated in the post-summer period to repair damage due to exposure to sunlight: dry skin, sunburns, skin spots, it is an excellent natural after-sun.

In addition, it is also often used to take care of dehydrated and dry skin, typical of autumn, in order to moisturize it and provide it with the right degree of nourishment and protection: aloe is also perfect as an aftershave or post-depilation cream, as it softens the skin and helps calm redness. Lastly, the least popular of its properties is that it protects the skin from damage from solar radiation. According to one study, once aloe gel is applied to the skin, it generates an antioxidant protein called "metallothionein" that fights the action of free radicals, prevents sunburn and other skin damage. So, you don't have to wait until you have burned before resorting to aloe, but it can be used to tan safely (to keep in mind for next summer). Finally, this wonder of a plant is also synonymous with anti-aging because it stimulates the production of collagen and elastin, giving tone and elasticity to the skin.

However, despite all the anecdotal evidence about its miraculous effects on the skin, there is not enough medical research to back up most of these claims. Experts say that when it comes to its actual benefits, there are two main functions: soothing and moisturizing the skin. There are plenty of uses for it, and it turns out great for face masks with a soothing effect, but it is no better than other existing ingredients such as vitamin C and niacinamide. It is therefore a safe item to use for skin hydration and as an anti -inflammatory, but it is not a staple for everything.

Last but not least, as with any ingredient, it is possible to have an allergic reaction to aloe vera, so it is recommended to test it before applying it all over. In case you have a sensitivity to it, you may experience itching or slight burning or develop rashes and hives, in which case you should stop using the product immediately.

Are you ready? nss G-Club has selected the 10 must-have aloe vera products for you: