Aloe vera has been used for centuries for its soothing, healing benefits to skin. Aloe is used on dry, cracked, red, itchy, or burned skin because it helps to repair the damage and promote healing; the gel contained within the aloe vera plant contains numerous antioxidants, as well as anti-inflammatory, anti-fungal and anti-microbial properties. Aloe vera moisturizer may be used daily to keep skin looking young looking and fresh, and to heal damage from the sun.
Aloe vera moisturizer is frequently applied after one has spent too much time in the sun and received a sunburn. The moisturizer, applied directly to the skin, helps relieve pain and prevent the skin from becoming dry and peeling. Some lip balms also contain aloe vera for the same reason. Of course, aloe vera moisturizer is not a substitute for sunscreen, which should always be worn when spending any time outside.
Aloe vera moisturizer might also be applied to bug bites or rashes on the skin, because it can help to relieve the itching. Any skin that is especially dry can benefit from this rich moisturizer; it exists in versions for both the face and body. In general, moisturizer that is intended for the body should not be put on the face, because it may clog the pores. Purchase different versions of aloe vera moisturizer to use on the face and body.
Keep in mind that it may not be necessary to purchase an aloe vera moisturizer to receive the benefits of aloe. Aloe vera plants are easy to grow, and many people simply keep them on a windowsill in the kitchen. To extract the gel, simply break off a small portion of one of the leaves and squeeze the gel directly onto a bug bite or burn. This may only be effective for covering smaller areas of the skin, but for accidental burns in the kitchen, it can be very helpful. Some people mix olive oil with the gel from the aloe vera plant for a homemade mask for the hands and feet.
To cover larger areas of the skin, an aloe moisturizer is the best choice. They may be purchased online, or found in most drugstores; be sure that aloe is one of the first listed ingredients, and that it is intended to be used on sensitive skin. Some acne treatment products contain aloe, both to minimize redness and to help with any pain that may be caused by the acne.