Aloe vera and why you need it in your skincare routine

Aloe vera is an ingredient that most people are familiar with. You have probably used it as a relief for sunburn, which is what it is commonly known for. However, Aloe vera has numerous beneficial properties, especially in skincare. 

WHAT IS ALOE VERA?

Aloe vera is a thick cactus-like plant that can be used in a variety of forms, most commonly as a gel or as a juice. Aloe vera pulp is the raw, fleshy substance that can be found when you peel the leaves back, and the gel is the sticky latex between the leaves and the pulp. The juice is made by blending the gel with water, which is then strained so there is no pulp left. While all versions have their uses, pure aloe vera pulp is by far the more effective option in skincare products. It is disheartening to see many skincare companies are now choosing the cheaper watered-down version, reducing the effectiveness of this amazing, powerful product.

Raw aloe vera pulp is a powerful skincare ingredient that is underrated and underused
Hydrate Me organic facial milk

WHY WE USE RAW ALOE

In delivering high quality products that really make an impact on the skin you need high quality ingredients. That’s why I prefer raw aloe pulp freshly sourced in small batches from an Australian local farm having the same ethics as myself. This way I can deliver real results for my clients, with keeping all my ingredients in their purest form. Not only does this make our brand significantly different in today’s market but also achieves continuity throughout the product line.

PULP VS JUICE – WHAT’S THE DIFFERENCE

Aloe vera juice can have its benefits if ingested, however for skincare purposes, it is not as effective as using the pulp. Aloe vera contains anti-oxidants, enzymes, vitamins A and C, and is an anti-inflammatory – when watered down to a juice, you lose the potency of these natural elements, including its moisturising properties, hence the minimal effectiveness of it as an ingredient in skincare.

There is limited research on the benefits of aloe vera in itself, however there is extensive research on the components of the plant (such as the vitamins, enzymes, amino acids etc). It is often recommended to use the raw gel when treating skin conditions, so it makes sense for me to use the raw and natural product in my skincare brand.

Before using products containing aloe vera, it is advisable to check if you have any allergies or sensitivities as people who are allergic to onion, garlic and tulips as they can also have a sensitivity to aloe; and people who are pregnant or breastfeeding should also check with their health professional.

Charcoal Me detoxing toning mist
Repair Me Whipped Serum Balm

ALOE VERA IN SKINCARE

Raw organic aloe vera is used throughout our skincare range, and can be found in both our moisturisers, Activate Me vitamin C serum and the Charcoal Me detoxing toner, thanks to its hydrating properties as well as its ability to heal skin and boost collagen production. Below listed are some of the benefits of using these products with the added raw aloe vera.

  1. Hydrates and retains moisture: aloe vera plants thrive in dry environments due to their capability to store water. They contain complex carbohydrates that help to heal skin irritants such as eczema.

  2. Collagen boosting: aloe vera has a molecular structure that boosts collagen and fights bacteria. That’s why it’s often used in anti-aging and anti-acne skincare products, as it heals wounds quickly and minimises scarring. While aloe vera won’t remove your existing wrinkles, it will aid in preventing new wrinkles from forming.

  3. Anti-inflammatory: aloe vera has a natural anti-inflammatory and antibacterial complex that can control and reduce acne-causing bacteria, with the ability to fight bacteria it a phenomenal treatment remedy for rosacea, and psoriasis.

  4. Easily absorbed: aloe vera gel is easily absorbed into the skin, making it a good ingredient in moisturiser for those with oily skin, who seek hydration without using heavy oil-based products.

Activate Me Vitamin C Serum

HOW TO INCORPORATE ALOE VERA INTO YOUR SKINCARE ROUTINE

Introducing aloe vera into your routine is as simple as incorporating our earth4me products into your skincare. As it is suitable for all skin types, and particularly effective for preventing ageing and healing scar tissue, I highly suggest looking at using one, or all of these products in your routine.

  1. Hydrate Me organic facial milk – a lightweight and easily absorbed moisturising cream that is great for all skin types, it also includes a custom essential oil blend to target your skin concerns
  2. Repair Me Whipped Serum Balm – our latest addition to the moisturiser range, this was designed with dry and ageing skins in mind. The pure raw aloe vera in this product will help retain moisture, and prevent fine lines from forming.
  3. Activate Me Vitamin C serum – this powerful serum is all about reducing lines, reducing pigmentation, skin brightening and skin healing. The aloe vera in this product works in tangent with the 20% clincial grade vitamin C to achieve all of these things.
  4. Charcoal Me detoxing toning mist – while it may seem strange to include aloe vera in a product designed to detox and clarify skin, its anti-inflammatory properties make this perfect for acne-prone skin as it will fight acne-causing bacteria. Aloe vera also contains collagen boosting properties, so the aloe vera in this toner will also help in healing scar tissue and seal in moisture from your serums and moisturisers.

Natasha Brock is a trained beauty therapist and skincare specialist with over 15 years experience in New Zealand and Australia. In addition to offering customised skin care products, she runs a clinic in Port Hedland, Western Australia.