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Is Aloe the Ultimate Skin Healer? Here’s What Research Shows

B25026 I By Lara Campbell, PharmD Class of 2026, ACP


Aloe vera (Aloe barbadensis) is among the most widely recognized botanicals in dermatology. Traditionally used for burns, wounds, and inflammation, modern clinical studies validate its effectiveness in enhancing wound healing, moisturizing dry skin, reducing inflammation, and improving skin conditions like melasma and psoriasis. Aloe’s versatility spans topical gels, creams, oral supplements, and advanced formulations, such as liposome-encapsulation, offering low-risk but potent benefits.

What the Science Says
Study Population / Model Dosage / Formulation Duration Key Findings
Dal’Belo et al., 2006 20 healthy women Lotion with 0.10–0.50% freeze-dried aloe vera extract Single application + 2 weeks Increased stratum corneum hydration with ≥0.25% after a single use; all concentrations were effective after 2 weeks. No significant Transepidermal Water Loss (TEWL) change. Supports aloe as a humectant [1].
Burusapat et al., 2018 12 patients with split-thickness skin graft donor sites Topical Aloe vera gel vs placebo Until complete epithelialization (~11–14 days) Aloe vera accelerated healing time (11.5 vs 13.7 days, p < 0.05). No significant pain relief was observed [2].
Olsen et al., 2001 Radiation therapy patients Mild soap vs mild soap + Aloe vera gel Throughout radiation therapy Aloe delayed radiation dermatitis onset at high cumulative doses (>2,700 cGy) from 3 to 5 weeks [3].
West & Zhu, 2003 29 female workers with occupational dry skin Aloe vera gel–coated glove (8 h/day) vs no glove 30 days use + 30 days rest + 10 days repeat Significant improvement in skin condition on Aloe glove hand within 3.5 days (noticeable) and 10.4 days (marked). No improvement on the control hand [4].
Tanaka et al., 2016 64 healthy women (30–59 years) Oral Aloe sterol supplement in yogurt vs placebo 12 weeks Significant increases in skin moisture, elasticity, and dermal collagen content; reduced Transepidermal Water Loss and skin fatigue area [5].
Ghafarzadeh & Eatemadi, 2017 180 pregnant women with melasma Topical liposome-encapsulated Aloe vera gel vs non-encapsulated gel 5 weeks Liposome-encapsulated gel showed significantly greater melasma improvement (32% vs 10% MASI score reduction). Mild side effects were reported [6].
The Science Behind the Soothing Sensation: How Aloe Vera Works

Aloe vera isn’t just a plant—it’s a botanical pharmacy. The clear gel inside its leaves is packed with over 75 bioactive compounds that contribute to its well-known therapeutic benefits. These components work together to provide antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and wound-healing properties, making it a staple in skincare and wellness.

Here’s a closer look at the key constituents that make aloe vera so effective:

  • Vitamins & Minerals: Aloe vera is a rich source of powerful antioxidants, including vitamins A, C, and E, which are crucial for neutralizing free radicals and protecting cells from damage. It also contains vitamin B12 and essential minerals like calcium, magnesium, zinc, and potassium, all vital for maintaining overall skin health and enzyme function [7, 8].
  • Sugars (Polysaccharides): The complex sugars found in aloe vera, especially glucomannans, are responsible for some of its most profound effects. These polysaccharides not only act as humectants, drawing moisture to the skin to enhance hydration, but they are also believed to have immune-stimulating and anti-inflammatory properties, which aid in the healing process [1, 9].
  • Enzymes, Amino Acids & Phenolics: Aloe vera gel contains enzymes like amylase and lipase, which can help break down fats and sugars. It’s also a source of 20 of the 22 essential amino acids, the building blocks of protein, which are critical for skin repair and regeneration. Phenolic compounds further bolster its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity [7].
  • Unique Therapeutic Compounds:
    • Acemannan: A specific polysaccharide that is known to stimulate fibroblasts, the cells responsible for producing collagen. This is a key reason why aloe vera is so effective in wound healing and skin repair [10].
    • Anthraquinones: Compounds like aloin and emodin have antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. When taken orally, they are also known for their laxative effects [7].
    • Salicylic Acid: A naturally occurring beta-hydroxy acid, salicylic acid provides a mild exfoliating effect and has anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties, helping to soothe irritated skin.
    • Saponins: These soapy substances give aloe vera its natural cleansing properties and have a gentle antiseptic effect [7].
    • Lignin: This substance, which is not absorbed by the skin itself, is a notable penetration enhancer. It helps other beneficial compounds in the gel to be absorbed more effectively into the deeper layers of the skin when applied topically [7].
How to Use Aloe Vera for Skin
Form Concentration Best For Instructions
Pure Aloe vera gel 95–100% Minor burns, sunburn, post-shave, post-acne inflammation Apply thin layer 2–3 times daily; refrigerate for soothing [1, 2].
Aloe vera cream 0.5–1% Psoriasis, eczema, dermatitis Apply twice daily to affected areas; safe for long-term use [11, 12].
Aloe hydrophilic gel 30% Seborrheic dermatitis, scaling Apply 1–2 times daily after cleansing scalp or face [13].
Aloe moisturizer or serum ~10% Dry/sensitive skin, barrier repair Use daily or twice daily as part of a facial routine [1].
Wound healing gel/dressing Up to 100% Superficial wounds, burns Cleanse wound, apply gel, cover with sterile dressing; change daily [10].

Tip: Use alcohol-free, fragrance-free, and cold-stabilized aloe products for best results. This is a standard recommendation to avoid potential irritants and ensure product integrity [14].

Safety & Side Effects
  • Generally well tolerated, even on sensitive skin: Numerous studies and reviews affirm that topical aloe vera gel is generally safe for skin application [15].
  • Rare allergic reactions (rash, itching) are possible; a patch test is recommended. Allergic contact dermatitis is a rare but documented side effect. Performing a patch test is a standard precaution recommended by dermatologists [16].
  • Avoid application on deep or infected wounds without medical supervision: While aloe aids superficial wound healing, its use on deep or infected wounds has not been as extensively studied and may interfere with professional medical treatment [10, 17].
Final Thoughts

Aloe vera’s effectiveness is not merely folklore; it is supported by a growing body of scientific evidence. Its benefits extend across a broad range of dermatological applications, including healing, hydration, and reducing inflammation [1, 2, 5, 11]. The development of advanced delivery methods, such as liposome encapsulation, continues to expand its therapeutic potential, allowing for more targeted and effective treatments [6].

References
  1. Dal’Belo, S. E., Gaspar, L. R., & Gonçalves Maia Campos, P. M. B. (2006). Moisturizing effect of cosmetic formulations containing Aloe vera extract in different concentrations assessed by skin bioengineering techniques. Skin Research and Technology, 12(4), 241–246. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.0909-752X.2006.00155.x
  2. Burusapat, C., Supawan, M., Pruksapong, C., Pitiseree, A., & Suwantemee, C. (2018). Topical Aloe Vera Gel for Accelerated Wound Healing of Split-Thickness Skin Graft Donor Sites: A Double-Blind, Randomized, Controlled Trial and Systematic Review. Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, 142(1), 217-226. https://doi.org/10.1097/PRS.0000000000004515
  3. Olsen, D. L., Raub, W. Jr., Bradley, C., Johnson, M., Macias, J. L., Love, V., & Markoe, A. (2001). The effect of Aloe vera gel/mild soap versus mild soap alone in preventing skin reactions in patients undergoing radiation therapy. Oncology Nursing Forum, 28(3), 543-547.
  4. West, D. P., & Zhu, Y. F. (2003). Evaluation of aloe vera gel gloves in the treatment of dry skin associated with occupational exposure. American Journal of Infection Control, 31(1), 40–42. https://doi.org/10.1067/mic.2003.12
  5. Tanaka, M., Yamamoto, Y., Misawa, E., Nabeshima, K., Saito, M., Yamauchi, K., Abe, F., & Furukawa, F. (2017). Effects of Aloe Sterol Supplementation on Skin Elasticity, Hydration, and Collagen Score: A 12-Week Double-Blind, Randomized, Controlled Trial. Skin Pharmacology and Physiology, 29(6), 309–317. https://doi.org/10.1159/000454718
  6. Ghafarzadeh, M., & Eatemadi, A. (2017). Clinical efficacy of liposome-encapsulated Aloe vera on melasma treatment during pregnancy. Journal of Cosmetic and Laser Therapy, 19(3), 181–187. https://doi.org/10.1080/14764172.2017.1279329
  7. Surjushe, A., Vasani, R., & Saple, D. G. (2008). Aloe vera: a short review. Indian Journal of Dermatology, 53(4), 163–166. https://doi.org/10.4103/0019-5154.44785
  8. Hęś, M., Dziedzic, K., Górecka, D., Jędrusek-Golińska, A., & Gujska, E. (2019). Aloe vera (L.) Webb.: Natural Sources of Antioxidants. Molecules, 24(13), 2530. https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules24132530
  9. Maenthaisong, J., Chaiyakunapruk, N., Niruntraporn, S., & Kongkaew, R. (2007). The efficacy of aloe vera used for burn wound healing: a systematic review. Burns, 33(6), 713–718. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.burns.2006.10.384
  10. Feily, A., & Namazi, M. R. (2009). Aloe vera in dermatology a brief review. Giornale Italiano di Dermatologia e Venereologia, 144(1), 85-91.
  11. Feily, A., & Namazi, M. R. (2009). Aloe vera in dermatology a brief review. Giornale Italiano di Dermatologia e Venereologia, 144(1), 85-91.
  12. Bae, J. M., Choi, Y. Y., & Park, C. O. (2013). Efficacy of allergen-specific immunotherapy for atopic dermatitis: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, 132(1), 110–117. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jaci.2013.02.044
  13. Faghihi, G., Shahriari, S., & Ebrahimi, L. (2014). The effect of aloe vera on seborrheic dermatitis: an open-label, single-arm pilot study. Journal of Dermatology and Dermatologic Surgery, 18(2), 62-65.
  14. National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH). (2024). Aloe Vera: Usefulness and Safety. Retrieved from https://www.nccih.nih.gov/health/aloe-vera
  15. National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH). (2024). Aloe Vera: Usefulness and Safety. Retrieved from https://www.nccih.nih.gov/health/aloe-vera
  16. Dr.Oracle. (2025). What are the adverse effects of Aloe vera?. Retrieved from https://www.droracle.ai/articles/101301/aloe-vera-adverse-effects
  17. Aloe vera for treating acute and chronic wounds. (2012). Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews. https://doi.org/10.1002/14651858.CD008064.pub2
  18. Mayo Clinic. (2024). Aloe. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements-aloe/art-20362267
  19. CBS News. (2016). That aloe vera gel might not actually include any aloe. Retrieved from https://www.cbsnews.com/news/that-aloe-vera-gel-might-not-actually-include-any-aloe/
Acknowledgment: 
We used ChatGPT by OpenAI to refine grammar and improve readability.

Note: This content is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider before starting any supplement.

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