More Than Just a Juice Craze: What Aloe Vera Can Do for Your Skin and Hair

When it comes to natural ingredients with bountiful health, skin and hair benefits, aloe vera needs no introduction. Known as the “plant of immortality,” by the ancient Egyptians, aloe vera is one of the most featured ingredients in beauty, skin and hair care products—and for good reason. No longer just your mom’s go-to solution for cuts, insect bites and sunburns, aloe vera (or aloe barbadensis) is one of the plant world’s richest sources of nourishing, rejuvenating and hair- and skin-loving nutrients.

“Scientists have found over 200 nutritional substances in aloe barbadensis leaves,” says beauty and aromatherapy expert Janice Rosenthal, owner of Garden of Essences. “These include proteolytic enzymes that stimulate fibroblast cells in our skin tissue that manufacture collagen and elastin, which in turn restore damaged skin and keep it firm.”

Because of its cell-renewing properties, aloe vera is known to reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines, scars and even stretch marks. It’s also a potent antioxidant, thanks to its high concentration of vitamins A, C and E—all essential in preventing visible signs of aging and hair damage and neutralizing free radicals. Its antibacterial, antiseptic and anti-inflammatory benefits also make it effective in treating acne and other skin and scalp irritations.

Worried the summer heat might do a number on your skin and hair? Fret no more. According to Rosenthal, aloe vera comes loaded with “moisture-boosting” nutrients and natural sugars that are responsible for “locking moisture into the skin and hair shaft, alleviating dryness, preventing brittle hair and taming frizz.”

Ready to experience the wonders that aloe vera can do for your skin and hair? Here’s a list of our top recommendations to get you started.

1. First Aid Beauty Pure Skin - Face Cleanser (5 oz.)

First Aid Beauty Pure Skin - Face Cleanser (5 oz.)

$38 Gift

147 reviews

$24.00

142g

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Featuring the antispetic, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits of aloe vera and allantoin, this five-star-rated cleanser leaves your face free of dirt, excess oil, makeup and other impurities while keeping it soothed and protected from environmental stressors. Its gentle formula makes it perfect for all skin types, including those with sensitive and acne-prone complexions.

2. Christophe Robin Hydrating Leave-in Mist with Aloe Vera 150ml

Christophe Robin Hydrating Leave-in Mist with Aloe Vera 150ml

4 reviews

$39.00

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We love the instant freshness that mists give our hair and this aloe vera-infused leave-in mist from Christophe Robin is no different. The ultra-lightweight formula is free from any silicones, infusing hair with a concentrated dosage of pure Aloe Vera Gel to intensively replenish moisture levels and impart a soothing sensation to the scalp that doesn’t feel greasy or heavy. Formulated with safe and gentle ingredients, use this mist whenever your hair needs a quick pick-me-up and create instant volume with just a few spritzes.

3. iS Clinical Hydra-Intensive Cooling Masque (4 oz.)

iS Clinical Hydra-Intensive Cooling Masque (4 oz.)

40 reviews

$95.00

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Need some down time to recover after a long and stressful week? So does your skin! Give it some much-needed pampering with this calming and nourishing face mask that’s specially crafted with cooling, hydrating and antioxidant-rich botanicals to keep your skin looking fresh, radiant and youthful.

6. Zents Oolong Ageless Aloe Moisture Wash (10 fl. oz.)

Zents Oolong Ageless Aloe Moisture Wash (10 fl. oz.)

1 reviews

RRP: $39.00Current price: $31.20

COMING SOON

Say goodbye to bad hair days and say hello to luscious, healthy-looking locks! Enriched with aloe vera and green tea extract, this treatment spray detangles, smooths and conditions hair, tames frizz and adds shine and protection to your tresses.