Aloe vera is a medicinal plant known to soothe the skin, promote the healing of small wounds and moisturize damaged areas.
Aloe vera is also widely used in beauty routines. It can hydrate the skin, reduce wrinkles, and promote healthy hair growth. Its gel offers gentle cleansing and exfoliating properties, useful for removing makeup, soothing irritations, and lightening dark spots.
Aloe vera can be grown at home or purchased as gel, juice, or supplements, making it easy to use in a variety of ways. While generally safe, excessive or inappropriate use can lead to adverse effects or may be inadvisable for some people, hence the importance of following the precautions for use.
Main benefits
Aloe vera has numerous health benefits, such as:
1. Stimulate hair growth
Aloe vera is used in hair cosmetics, particularly to hydrate the hair fiber and improve scalp comfort, which can give the impression of stronger hair.
How to use: In a bowl, mix 2 egg whites with 2 tablespoons of aloe vera gel and mix well. Apply the mixture, making sure to cover the roots of your hair. Leave on for 5 minutes and rinse with cold water, then wash with shampoo.
2. Remove dandruff
Aloe vera is sometimes used in hair care routines to help cleanse the scalp and improve comfort, which can be helpful when flakes are present.
How to use: Mix 2 tablespoons of aloe vera gel with 1 tablespoon of honey and 2 tablespoons of plain yogurt. Apply to the roots of your hair, massaging the scalp for about 15 minutes. Leave on for 30 minutes, then wash your hair with shampoo. This treatment should only be done once a week.
6. Remove makeup from the face
Aloe vera can be used in cosmetics to help with makeup removal and skin comfort, if the skin tolerates it.
How to use: apply a little aloe vera gel to a cotton pad and gently rub the made-up areas, then rinse your face with warm water and a mild soap.
7. Lighten the skin
Aloe vera can be used in cosmetics to improve the appearance of the skin, but it should not be presented as a treatment for pigment spots or melasma.
How to use: apply the gel to the affected area, leave for a few minutes, then rinse with lukewarm water, stopping if irritation occurs.
What is aloe vera used for?
In France, aloe vera is primarily used on the skin and hair as a cosmetic product, particularly for moisturizing, soothing, and improving skin comfort.
When used on the skin, it is important to choose products specifically formulated for topical use and to pay close attention to any skin reactions.
For oral “health” uses, French authorities call for caution and advise against self-medication due to possible adverse effects linked to certain substances naturally present in the leaf.
