Aloe Vera
A soothing, water-rich plant gel that calms, comforts and hydrates sensitive or stressed skin.
Aloe barbadensis leaf juice, Aloe barbadensis leaf extract, Aloe barbadensis Miller, aloe gel
Sensitive skin · Redness · Dry & dehydrated skin
What it does
Aloe vera has been used for centuries to comfort the skin. Many will know its soothing properties as it’s long been used as a protectant following irritation — particularly after time in the sun. It helps calm and hydrate the skin, and turns up in gels, mists, cleansers and creams.
How it works
Taken from the aloe vera succulent, this plant-derived, gel-like substance is rich in water, polysaccharides and amino acids, and has wonderful soothing properties. Its polysaccharides act as humectants, binding water to the skin’s surface and comforting dry or irritated skin. It can also help calm the look of redness, leaving a softer, calmer complexion.
MG says
A classic for sensitive, stressed-out complexions, aloe vera is one of the soothing ingredients to reach for after sun exposure or travel, alongside centella asiatica. In Eighth Day The Resurfacing Tonic, soothing aloe and cucumber balance its gentle acids; I like to use it in the evening after cleansing, before my serum and moisturiser.
Cautions
Aloe is generally well tolerated but can occasionally irritate, so patch test if your skin is reactive. Use purpose-made products rather than sap straight from the plant: the yellow latex just under the leaf skin can irritate.
