Aloe Vera

Botanical EmollientAnti-inflammatory

Also known as: Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract, Aloe

Description

Aloe vera is derived from the inner gel of Aloe barbadensis miller leaves. It contains over 75 active constituents including polysaccharides (acemannan), vitamins, minerals, enzymes, and amino acids. It has been used for centuries in wound healing and is one of the most widely used botanical ingredients in skincare and dermatology. [Surjushe 2008]

Mechanism of Action

Acemannan and other polysaccharides stimulate macrophage activity and fibroblast proliferation, accelerating wound healing. Aloe inhibits thromboxane A2 and bradykinin, reducing inflammation and pain. The polysaccharide gel forms a moisture-retaining barrier on the skin surface. Aloin and anthraquinones provide mild antimicrobial activity. Carboxypeptidase in the gel inactivates bradykinin, contributing to anti-inflammatory effects. [Surjushe 2008]

Indications

Available Concentrations

1%5%10%50%100% (pure gel)

Side Effects

  • Contact dermatitis (rare) [Surjushe]
  • Allergic reaction in individuals sensitive to Liliaceae family

Contraindications

  • Known allergy to aloe or Liliaceae family plants

Pregnancy Category

Not classified (topical use generally considered safe)

Found In

Drugs containing Aloe Vera

CortaidHydrocortisone Cream

Cosmetics containing Aloe Vera

AHAGlow Advanced Face Wash GelTorrent Pharmaceuticals (Menarini)Aqualogica Detan+ Dewy Sunscreen SPF 50+ PA++++AqualogicaAqualogica Radiance+ Dewy Sunscreen with Watermelon & Niacinamide SPF 50 PA++++AqualogicaCOSRX Aloe Soothing Sun Cream SPF 50+ PA+++COSRXThe Derma Co AHA BHA 10% Face PeelThe Derma CoThe Derma Co 1% Hyaluronic Sunscreen Aqua Gel SPF 50 PA++++The Derma CoThe Derma Co Pore Minimizing Priming Sunscreen SPF 50 PA+++The Derma CoDot & Key CICA Calming Mattifying Sunscreen SPF 50 PA++++Dot & KeyDot & Key 10% Glycolic Acid Glow SerumDot & KeyDot & Key Vitamin C + E Sunscreen SPF 50 PA+++Dot & KeyDot & Key Watermelon Cooling Sunscreen SPF 50+ PA++++Dot & KeyHyphen Brightening Face Serum 5% Niacinamide + 1% Alpha ArbutinHyphenMamaearth Tea Tree Face WashMamaearthMamaearth Vitamin C TonerMamaearthMinimalist 2% Alpha Arbutin Serum + Hyaluronic AcidMinimalistPilgrim 25% AHA + 2% BHA + 5% PHA Peeling SolutionPilgrimPilgrim 2% Alpha Arbutin & 3% Vitamin C Brightening Face SerumPilgrimPlum 1% Retinol Anti-Aging Night Face Serum with BakuchiolPlumRE'EQUIL Oxybenzone and OMC Free Sunscreen SPF 50 PA+++RE'EQUILVenusia Max Intensive Moisturising CreamDr. Reddy's LaboratoriesWOW Skin Science Vitamin C SerumWOW Skin Science

Related Conditions

Rosacea Soothing and anti-inflammatory botanical Atopic Dermatitis Anti-inflammatory and soothing botanical Psoriasis Soothing moisturiser — adjunct to topical therapy Seborrheic Dermatitis Soothing adjunct for irritated skin Contact Dermatitis Anti-inflammatory soothing agent Xerosis Hydrating and soothing botanical

References

  1. Dal'Belo SE, Gaspar LR, Maia Campos PM. "Moisturizing effect of cosmetic formulations containing Aloe vera extract in different concentrations assessed by skin bioengineering techniques." Skin Res Technol, 2006. doi:10.1111/j.0909-752X.2006.00155.x
  2. Surjushe A, Vasani R, Saple DG. "Aloe vera: a short review." Indian J Dermatol, 2008. doi:10.4103/0019-5154.44785

Limitations

This page provides a general overview of Aloe Vera in dermatology. It does not cover every possible use, formulation, or interaction. Individual responses to compounds vary — what works for one person may not work for another. Always consult a qualified dermatologist before starting or changing any treatment.