Loaded with more than 200 active components, including vitamins, minerals, amino acids, enzymes, polysaccharides, fatty acids, and more, aloe is one of the few natural substances scientifically proven to benefit the body.
Among aloe's exceptional skin care abilities:
Aloe penetrates tissue – Unlike water, aloe can be absorbed by the skin. In fact, it is absorbed deep into the skin's layers. This is due to the presence of lignin, a substance similar to cellulose. This ability allows aloe to act as an excellent carrier for the other components of aloe vera, as well as other ingredients that are included in aloe-based skin care products.
Aloe acts as an anesthetic – Aloe has high magnesium content and contains aspirin-like compounds. Therefore, it is commonly used to alleviate the pain of burns and wounds, including countless skin ailments.
Aloe has antimicrobial properties – Among the antimicrobial compounds found in aloe are saponin, which acts as an antisepsis, and barbaloin, which is effective against Mycobacterium, a family of bacteria known to cause serious diseases. A 1979 study by Heggers et al showed that aloe in concentrations greater than 60 percent is lethal against various organisms. Given that bacteria are a main cause of acne, aloe's antimicrobial properties are beneficial in treatment of the condition.
Aloe is an anti-inflammatory – Aloe contains salicylic acid, a beta hydroxy acid known for its anti-inflammatory capabilities. Additionally, it contains sterols that inhibit acute inflammation, similar to cortisone, but without the side effects. Nearly all skin conditions stem from inflammation, making aloe an ideal remedy.
Aloe is proven to heal wounds – Scientific research has shown that several components in aloe are responsible for the substance's excellent ability to regenerate cells. These include gibberellin, a growth hormone-like substance that increases protein synthesis and lectin, a protein that increases collagen activity and improves the collagen matrix. Thus, aloe may be utilized to heal conditions, such as acne or eczema, while improving the overall health of the skin.