10 Benefits of Using Aloe Vera on Your Face

Aloe vera offers therapeutic qualities that may help with burns, itching, acne, and a range of other skin concerns.

Among herbal remedies, aloe vera is one of the most commonly applied for topical skin issues. This is because the plant’s gel-like interior is known to soothe and repair the skin from several minor complaints.

You may have used aloe for sunburn, small cuts, or light scrapes in the past.

Despite its restorative reputation, you might wonder whether it’s appropriate for facial use. In general, it is. When applied properly, aloe vera can assist with various conditions that affect the face. That said, some people can be sensitive to it and develop irritation. It’s wise to patch-test any new product — including aloe vera — on a small skin area to observe how your skin responds.

Continue reading to explore potential advantages.

Aloe vera gel versus the plant

The aloe vera found in over-the-counter (OTC) gels comes from the plants by the same name.

There are numerous aloe species — estimates vary — but the variety most often employed for skin issues is Aloe barbadensis Miller.

In mainstream practice, aloe vera is used topically as a gel produced from the leaf’s inner, gel-like portion. You can also split open a leaf and squeeze out the gel directly.

Still, ready-to-use gels are more convenient, particularly for urgent burns and wounds. OTC preparations may also contain additional soothing botanicals like echinacea and calendula.

Face benefits of aloe vera

Applying aloe vera gel or products that include it to the face may provide relief for a number of skin problems.

If you have a chronic skin disease or troubling symptoms, consult a dermatologist before applying any new product to your face. Discuss the following potential benefits of aloe vera with your clinician.

1. Burns

Aloe may accelerate healing of minor burns. A 2023 review compared topical aloe gel to silver sulfadiazine and other herbal treatments for second-degree burns. Several studies showed aloe to be more effective. Its antimicrobial action may also reduce infection risk.

It has also been used for burns caused by radiation therapy.

However, for second-degree or more severe burns you should use proper first aid and consult a physician before home treatment, especially for large burns. Serious burns need prompt medical care.

For minor burns, apply aloe vera gel to the area and consider covering it with sterile gauze if necessary.

2. Sunburn

The American Academy of Dermatology Association suggests using products containing aloe vera to soothe sunburned skin. It may provide moisturizing and anti-inflammatory benefits that ease discomfort.

Note, however, that evidence does not indicate aloe vera prevents or cures sunburn.

3. Small abrasions

Aloe may support wound repair.

If you’ve grazed your chin or forehead, applying aloe vera can help reduce pain and burning sensations.

4. Cuts

When you don’t have an antibiotic ointment for a minor cut, aloe vera can be an alternative. Its molecular composition supports healing and can limit scarring by encouraging collagen formation and decreasing bacterial growth risk in the wound.

5. Dry skin

Aloe vera gel is quickly absorbed, which makes it suitable for oily skin, but it can also benefit dry skin. Use aloe vera alongside your regular moisturizer to help lock in hydration.

6. Cold sores

Cold sores form on the exterior of the mouth and are caused by the herpes virus. Aloe vera may help manage the virus; apply a small amount of gel to a cold sore twice daily until it resolves.

7. Acne

Because of its anti-inflammatory properties, aloe vera gel may be useful for inflammatory acne lesions like pustules and nodules. Dab the gel onto the pimple with a cotton swab three times a day.

The National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH) notes that aloe vera might help reduce acne when used alongside other treatments.

8. Psoriasis

Aloe vera can reduce inflammation and itching related to psoriasis. For improved results, apply the gel to affected skin twice daily.

9. Eczema

The hydrating effects of aloe may ease the discomfort of dry, itchy skin seen in eczema or seborrheic dermatitis. Although seborrheic dermatitis commonly affects the scalp, it may also appear on the face and behind the ears.

However, studies are inconclusive about its effectiveness for eczema.

10. Frostbite

Historically, aloe vera has been used for frostbite and some research indicates possible benefit. Still, frostbite is a severe condition that requires emergency medical care, and medical interventions are generally more effective than aloe vera.

If you suspect frostbite, follow first-aid guidance and seek urgent medical attention, particularly for stage 2 or worse frostbite.

Choosing an aloe vera product

The leaf interior of an aloe plant provides the most potent natural gel. But if you don’t have a live plant, OTC gels are a practical substitute. For best outcomes, choose a gel listing aloe vera as the primary ingredient.

For treating skin problems, aloe extracts are less effective than the actual gel, since the gel itself contains moisturizing components that protect and aid skin repair.

Side effects and precautions

Topical aloe vera is generally safe when used as directed, yet the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does not regulate aloe products closely. This places responsibility on the consumer to use them carefully and report any adverse reactions to a healthcare provider.

Avoid using aloe vera as a substitute for medical care with severe burns or large wounds; such injuries require immediate medical attention. Delaying care may raise the risk of complications.

Some people may feel itching or mild stinging as the aloe begins to act. If a rash or hives develop, stop using the product immediately — you might be sensitive to the gel.

Do not apply aloe vera gel to infected wounds. Although it has antimicrobial properties, its protective layer could interfere with healing and potentially worsen infections.

Summary

Aloe vera can be a natural option for many skin issues. Still, the available evidence does not conclusively support all of the claimed benefits, though topical use is generally safe.

Keep in mind that using prepared aloe gel is not identical to applying the plant directly to your face.

If you apply aloe vera and don’t notice improvement within a few days, consult a healthcare professional, such as a dermatologist, who can address your specific skin concerns and recommend appropriate treatments.