The history of aloe vera

One of the most prevalent ingredients in skincare today, aloe vera has been recognised for its natural medicinal properties for thousands of years. Mentioned in ancient works, including the Bible, it also appears in Chinese and Sumerian writings from around 3,000 BC. Queen Nefertiti and Cleopatra used it as part of their beauty routines, while Alexander the Great secured supplies of it for the treatment of his soldiers’ wounds. It was revered by ancient Egyptians, who considered it the “plant of immortality”, and mentions of it have been found on papyrus, describing its anti-inflammatory effect. Renowned physicians Aristotle, Hippocrates and Dioscorides also spoke about aloe’s properties to treat wounds and care for the skin.

About the plant

Growing in dry, tropical climates, aloe vera (aloe barbadensis) is a flowering succulent plant that is a member of the genus aloe. It reaches maturity at 3-4 years and is made up of three layers: the inner layer (gel) which is 99.5% water, the middle layer (latex) and the outer layer (rind). The clear jelly-like substance found inside the thick leaves of this cactus contains 75 nutrients, 20 minerals, 12 vitamins, 18 amino acids and 200 active enzymes.

Benefits of including aloe vera in skincare

Although we may tend to think of aloe as useful for cooling post-sun skin (or you may have used it for minor cuts and abrasions), it can also offer other benefits via moisturisers, gels, creams or masks:

Promotes hydration: Since aloe is mostly water, it offers hydrating benefits, giving the skin a soft and smooth feel. It helps to reduce transepidermal water loss and enhance the natural moisture barrier – which, in turn, assists in protecting the skin from potential irritants, allergens and bacteria.

Helps facilitate healing: Containing water-loving polysaccharides, anti-inflammatory phytosterols, a range of vitamins (A, B, C, D and E) and minerals (such as magnesium, potassium and zinc), aloe offers soothing and calming benefits. It can help to relieve itchiness and irritation, and support skin repair and regeneration.

Fights bacteria: Aloe contains six antiseptic agents that inhibit bacteria, alongside naturally occurring salicylic acid, which makes it particularly useful for skin prone to flare-ups. Salicylic acid is an exfoliant and anti-inflammatory that removes dead skin cells, helps to break down excess oil and unclogs the pores.

Improves signs of ageing: By providing hydrating and moisturising benefits, aloe can help stave off the signs of ageing, reduce the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles and hyperpigmentation, and improve skin elasticity and plumpness. Its antioxidant content can assist in reducing free radical damage, to help keep the skin youthful and healthy looking.