Is Aloe Vera Extract Right For Your Skin?
Posted by Susan Katz on Sep 8th 2023
Consumers are becoming increasingly discerning and more aware of what is in their beauty products, and rightly so. With an overwhelming array of products claiming all sorts of benefits, it's essential to rely on science and evidence rather than social media and marketing hype. At Skin Actives, our commitment to providing you with the best skincare solutions is unwavering. That's why we turn to science and research to understand the true potential of ingredients like Aloe Vera Extract in skincare products.
Aloe vera, a plant with a rich history in traditional medicine across various cultures, has been one ingredient that we continue to use, but with caution. As Dr. Hannah Sivak, the founder of Skin Actives, wisely points out, tradition alone isn't enough to justify the use of any ingredient in modern skincare. We now have the scientific method at our disposal, allowing us to scrutinize the evidence meticulously.
Let's delve into the world of Aloe Vera Extract, exploring its composition, properties, and the potential benefits it offers to our skin.
The Chemistry of Aloe Vera Extract
Like many plant extracts, aloe vera leaves are a complex mixture of compounds, known as secondary metabolites. These compounds are not vital for the plant's survival but are produced in response to stress or threats from predators. Understanding this intricate chemistry is crucial to deciphering what Aloe Vera Extract can offer to our skin.
Among the chemical constituents of aloe vera, we find acetylated mannans, poly mannans, anthraquinone C-glycosides, anthrones, emodin, and several lectins. Notably, anthraquinones and anthrones are known for their laxative properties, a characteristic unrelated to skincare but should be acknowledged.
Benefits of Aloe Vera Extract in Skincare
When it comes to skincare, Aloe Vera Extract holds promise for several reasons:
- Hydration: Topically applied aloe vera is known to improve skin hydration. It acts as a natural moisturizer, helping to keep your skin supple and refreshed.
- Anti-Inflammatory Properties: Aloe vera possesses anti-inflammatory properties that can soothe irritated skin. It's particularly beneficial for healing cuts, grazes, burns, and insect bites.
- UVB Damage Repair: Aloe vera may prevent immune suppression caused by UVB radiation by aiding in the repair of epidermal Langerhans cells.
- Immunostimulant Properties: Special polysaccharides, including acetylated mannans found in Aloe vera, contribute to its immunostimulant properties, which can enhance your skin's overall health.
It's essential to note that Aloe Vera Extract is not a one-size-fits-all solution. While it offers numerous benefits, it also contains emodin, which may exhibit some antitumor activity but can be phototoxic under certain conditions.
Our Commitment to Truth in Skincare
Dr. Hannah Sivak reminds us that claims made by skincare companies regarding aloe vera (or any ingredient) should be viewed with skepticism. At Skin Actives, we share this sentiment, but we go a step further. We are committed to following independent research when selecting active ingredients for our products. Furthermore, when we identify beneficial compounds within an extract, we strive to obtain extracts that are standardized to ensure consistency and effectiveness.
Aloe Vera Extract is a valuable ingredient in skincare products, provided it is used responsibly and knowledgeably. At Skin Actives, our dedication to providing you with the best in skincare means we prioritize science and evidence over marketing hype. We believe that informed choices lead to healthier, more radiant skin, and we're here to empower you on your skincare journey.
Aloe Extract The Skin Actives Way
At Skin Actives, we understand the significance of evidence-based skincare, and our commitment to providing effective solutions remains unwavering. Aloe Vera Extract is beneficial when used for the right reason and in the right amounts. Let's explore some of our exceptional products that incorporate the power of aloe extract:
Redness Reduction Serum
Recommended for: Those with sensitive or irritated skin, prone to redness and inflammation.
Redness Reduction Serum is a game-changer for individuals dealing with skin redness and sensitivity. Enriched with Aloe Vera Extract, this serum harnesses the natural anti-inflammatory properties of aloe to soothe and calm irritated skin. Its advanced formula also includes other potent ingredients like niacinamide and green tea extract, known for their skin-calming and antioxidant properties. With regular use, you can expect a visible reduction in redness, leaving your skin looking and feeling healthier.
Gentle Cream Cleanser
Recommended for: Anyone seeking a gentle yet effective cleanser for daily use.
Our Gentle Cream Cleanser is a testament to our dedication to gentle, nourishing skincare. It combines the gentle cleansing action of Aloe Vera Extract with natural oils, ensuring your skin is thoroughly cleansed without the harsh stripping effect of traditional cleansers. Aloe vera's hydrating and soothing properties make this cleanser ideal for all skin types, especially those prone to dryness or irritation. Experience clean, refreshed skin without the tightness.
Hydrating Shave Cream
Recommended for: Men and women looking for a smooth and soothing shaving experience.
Shaving can be harsh on the skin, leading to irritation and discomfort. Our Hydrating Shave Cream is designed to transform your shaving routine into a pampering experience. Aloe Vera Extract takes center stage in this product, providing an extra layer of protection and hydration. It helps reduce redness and razor burn while ensuring a close and comfortable shave. Bid farewell to post-shave irritation with this luxurious shave cream.
We use the power of science and evidence to guide our product formulations. These recommendations showcase how Aloe Vera Extract can be effectively integrated into your skincare routine, offering relief, hydration, and protection. Remember that every individual's skin is unique, so it's essential to choose products that align with your specific needs and concerns.
Bonus! DIY Aloe-Infused Soothing Spray
Since we are all about customizing skincare to meet the individual needs of our customers, here is one of our favorite recipe kits for a simple yet effective recipe to create your very own Aloe-Infused Soothing Spray using Skin Actives' Base Toner Spray 4oz and a few carefully selected active ingredients:
Ingredients:
- 4 oz Skin Actives Base Toner Spray
- 1 tube of Aloe Extract
- 1 tube of Beta Glucan from Oat
- 1 jar of Sea Kelp Bioferment
Instructions:
- Prepare Your Work Area: Before you begin, ensure your work area is clean and sanitized. Pour the contents of the Base Toner Spray into a sterilized mixing bowl.
- Combine Aloe Extract: Start by slowly adding ½ a tube of Aloe Extract to the Skin Actives Base Toner Spray. Pro Tip: Use a small hand mixer or milk frother to ensure it is well mixed.
- Mix Beta Glucan: Next, add 1/2 tube of Beta Glucan to the mixture and mix well.
- Blend in Sea Kelp Bioferment: Finally, introduce approximately 4 tsp of Sea Kelp Bioferment to your toner mixture.
- Mix Thoroughly: and pour back into your Base Toner Spray bottle.
- Usage: Your DIY Aloe-Infused Soothing Spray is now ready for use. Apply it to your face and neck after cleansing or use it throughout the day to refresh your skin. Simply spritz it onto your skin and let it air dry.
This customized toner blends the hydrating and soothing benefits of Aloe Vera Extract and Beta Glucan and the nutritive power of Sea Kelp. It's a wonderful addition to your skincare routine, offering a refreshing and rejuvenating experience every time you use it. Buy the recipe kit here to get 15% off the total purchase.
Remember that DIY skincare allows you to tailor your products to your unique needs and preferences. Feel free to adjust the ingredients based on your skin's requirements and enjoy the satisfaction of creating your personalized skincare solution.