How Aloe Vera Gel Works For Acne And Scars

Acne is a skin condition usually caused by the over secretion of sebum by the hair follicles which leads to microorganisms being harbored there causing inflammation of the face. Creams, gels, and ointments with Aloe vera as their major ingredient contain the clear gel found in aloe vera leaves. This clear gel is very effective in soothing the skin, probably from burns or other forms of irritations.

Although there is no proof yet to back up these claims, some people also seem to agree that consuming or ingesting Aloe vera through the mouth helps to hydrate the skin from within. They also claim it heals the skin from within, both of which are very good for the treatment and prevention of acne.

Some of the amazing properties of Aloe vera include :

  • Pure aloe vera gel contains about 75 active ingredients, which include amino acids, salicylic acid, lignin, vitamins, minerals, saponins, and enzymes.
  • Aloe vera also promotes collagen synthesis and helps in the fast healing of wounds and scars. This property is beneficial in healing acne scars.
  • It protects your skin from inflammation, damage, and skin hypersensitivity caused by UV exposure.
  • It also moisturizes your skin, promotes elastin and collagen production, and prevents the formation of wrinkles.
  • The amino acids and zinc in aloe vera soften your skin and tighten the skin pores.

Different Forms Of Using Aloe Vera For Acne Treatment

Below are ways to use only aloe vera, or aloe vera mixed with some other natural component in the prevention and of course treatment of acne, and even the removal of acne scars. If your acne is mild to moderate and you have been looking for a gentle way to soothe your skin, give these home remedies a try.

#1. Pure Undiluted Aloe Vera

Pure, undiluted Aloe vera freshly picked from the garden has been proven by research scientists to possess numerous characteristics that make it very effective in the treatment of acne. Some of these qualities are that Aloe vera contains antibacterial properties, it also functions as an antioxidant as well as an anti-inflammatory substance.

Pure aloe vera also protects the skin from inflammation as rightly said earlier, as well as damage, and skin hypersensitivity caused by UV exposure. As it moisturizes the skin, it enhances elastin and collagen production, thereby preventing wrinkle formation on the skin. This is all thanks to the amino acids and zinc in aloe vera which makes the skin soft while tightening the skin pores.

The presence of sugars and fatty acids in aloe vera is what makes it have very effective anti-inflammatory properties. In reality, aloe vera is actually made up of about 75 active ingredients, of which amino acids, salicylic acid, lignins, vitamins, minerals, saponins, and enzymes are all-inclusive. Apart from that, aloe vera in its pure form is capable of promoting collagen synthesis and therefore assists wounds and scars heal faster. This ability to heal wounds and scars faster is great for healing scars caused by acne. But for the treatment of preexisting acne, just as many individuals do, apply the pure Aloe vera gel to the affected areas on the skin and let it get absorbed by the skin overnight, ensure to wash it off in the morning.

#2. Aloe Vera And Lemon Juice

Citric acid is usually found in citrus fruits such as lemon, oranges, and lime. It has been observed that this acid has the capability to also treat acne. Although pure lemon juice from which citric acid is obtained is very acidic, combining it with Aloe vera to create a very nice face mask could prevent the skin from getting irritated.

This acne mask could be produced by mixing 1 spoon of Aloe vera and 1 spoon of lemon juice. Then spread evenly on the face and leave on for 10 minutes. Exercise caution when applying this mixture around the eyes since the eyes are very sensitive and wash it off completely after 10 minutes.

#3. Aloe Vera Mixed With Cinnamon And Honey

Producing a face mask from honey, cinnamon, and aloe vera could be another effective choice for treating acne. The interesting thing is that Cinnamon and honey also have similar antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties as aloe vera.

To make cinnamon, honey, and aloe vera face mask,  mix about 2 tablespoons of  honey, 1 tablespoon of aloe vera, and ¼ teaspoon of cinnamon in a small clean bowl. This can be applied to the face, left on for 10 minutes, and washed off with warm water.

#4. Aloe Vera And Tea Tree Oil

Numerous studies and published research have proven that tea tree oil gels and face washes may be effective for treating mild to moderate acne. A word of caution though is to avoid leaving this essential oil in the skin for a long time.

Tea tree oil mixed with aloe vera is very efficient as a facial cleanser. This cleaning solution is made by mixing water, aloe vera, and 2 to 3 drops of tea tree essential oil. Some people can be sensitive to tea tree oil, so it is essential to wash the solution off with water after a couple of minutes.

#5. Coconut Oil, Sugar, And Aloe Vera Scrub

Finding natural exfoliants to use in the face is usually a difficult task to do because most exfoliants sold in cosmetic shops and stores contain a whole lot of chemicals which definitely create a negative effect on the facial skin over time.

To avoid chemicals, it is, therefore, advisable to produce your scrub from scratch by using a combination of coconut oil, sugar, and aloe vera. The grains in sugar remove the dead layers of skin, while studies have shown that lauric acid, a medium-chain fatty acid, and a major component of coconut oil, helps in preventing and treating acne.

To make a scrub, take equal parts sugar and coconut oil while mixing those with half the amount of aloe vera. Once mixed, the scrub can be applied over the affected area and then rinsed off. Avoid exfoliating too regularly, and always consult a doctor before using exfoliating creams on acne, to prevent further skin irritation.

#6. Creams With Aloe Vera As An Active Ingredient

Aloe vera is a common ingredient in many over-the-counter acne creams. People can find out which products contain aloe vera by looking at the active ingredients listed on the label. If the cream is already purchased and does not have aloe vera in it, it is very possible to add some Aloe vera gel into the cream, mix it properly, and use it. Creams containing aloe vera should be used daily as a regular facial treatment regime because of its anti-inflammatory properties.

Allergic Reactions In Using Aloe Vera To Treat Acne

Many methods for using aloe vera involve combining it with other ingredients. These ingredients could cause an allergic reaction on the skin. A person should stop using an ingredient if they notice any skin irritation.

An allergic reaction as a result of using aloe vera is uncommon. But some individuals still claim to have developed allergic reactions after applying aloe vera to their skin. Signs of an allergy may include redness, a rash, or swelling. If symptoms occur, desist from using aloe vera. And if these symptoms cause great concern, it is advisable to consult a doctor as soon as possible.

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