Oct 4, 2023 8:00:00 AM / by GlyMed Advanced Aesthetic Institute
Most people associate aloe vera with soothing sun-damaged skin. However, if you’re able to properly utilize this powerful ingredient, you can offer many more benefits for your client’s skin.
WHAT IS ALOE VERA?
Aloe vera is one of 300 aloe plants, a succulent species that grows in tropical, semi-tropical and arid climates. Renowned for its thick, pointed leaves filled with a gel-like substance, aloe vera possesses exceptional hydrating, anti-inflammatory and healing properties.
Aloe vera has been a trusted ally in skincare and medicine for millennia. Ancient Egyptians called it the "plant of immortality" and used aloe vera for skin ailments like sunburns and ulcers. Its healing virtues were acclaimed in the Greek herbal medicine tradition—and was even one of Cleopatra's famous beauty secrets.
THE NUTRITIONAL PROFILE OF ALOE VERA
Aloe vera’s nutritional profile boasts a long list of health benefits, encompassing about 200 bioactive compounds, including:
Vitamins: Aloe vera is packed with essential vitamins, including the A, C, E and B complex groups, all known for their potent antioxidant properties.
Minerals: It is rich in minerals like calcium, magnesium and zinc.
Amino Acids: Aloe vera has many amino acids, including threonine, leucine and isoleucine. These amino acids can be used in skincare products, such as our Essential Serum (Amino Acid Serum with PC10), to protect a client's skin hydration and stratum corneum.
There are also compounds such as polysaccharides, anthraquinones and phytosterols working synergistically to enhance aloe's healing prowess. Their main functions include stimulating the production of white blood cells and reducing inflammation.
OPTIMIZING THE BENEFITS OF ALOE VERA FOR SKIN
Aloe vera’s intense hydrating abilities offer many benefits for a client’s skin—especially in the form of high-quality professional skincare products.
SUNBURN AND INFLAMMATION
Aloe vera's natural cooling properties offer immediate relief to overheated skin. Products like our Vitamin C Cream take advantage of aloe vera's ingredients to reduce your client's redness or swelling. They also greatly assist in post-care after a chemical peel or dermabrasion when the skin needs to heal.
HYDRATION
Using aloe vera for skin hydration can greatly enhance your client’s skin. It contains a powerful moisturizing agent called glucomannan that binds water to the skin, locking in moisture for longer-lasting hydration.
ANTI-AGING
The amino acids, antioxidants and vitamins in aloe vera also work to promote a younger-looking complexion. Its phytosterols can encourage collagen production, while its polysaccharides help protect against the damaging effects of free radicals.
ACNE
Aloe vera's anti-inflammatory properties make it an ideal ingredient for acne treatment. Our Clear Exfoliant Cleanser (Exfoliant Wash) contains aloe vera and helps to unclog pores and reduce acne lesions.
HYPERPIGMENTATION
As a natural depigmenting agent, aloe vera is an ideal addition to any skin-lightening product. Its antioxidants and amino acids help reduce the appearance of dark spots on a client's skin by inhibiting melanin production.
ECZEMA AND DERMATITIS
Aloe vera effectively treats skin conditions like eczema and dermatitis because of its anti-inflammatory properties. This greatly helps to reduce redness, itching and swelling. The moisturizing power of aloe vera can even improve the appearance of dry patches on your client’s skin.
PSORIASIS
The combination of antioxidants, vitamins and minerals found in aloe vera makes it an effective psoriasis treatment, reducing any redness and itching while soothing your client’s dry skin.
MINOR WOUNDS
Aloe vera can heal your client's minor wounds and skin abrasions caused by everyday activities, sunburns or dryness. Our Comfort Cream is enriched with aloe vera to help heal upset skin after waxing, chemical peels and more.
4 THINGS TO LOOK FOR WHEN SELECTING ALOE VERA PRODUCTS
High-quality products ensure that your clients are taking advantage of all the benefits of aloe vera for the skin. Here are five steps you can take to assess the quality of the aloe vera products you're using on your clients.
1. CHECK THE LABEL
While looking for products that list aloe vera as an ingredient, check the entire ingredient list. Aloe vera's benefits are enhanced when combined with other natural ingredients. However, some products may contain artificial colors, fragrances or additives that can cause irritation or have no additional benefits. Check for these on the label and avoid them by using higher-quality alternatives.
2. ORGANIC CERTIFICATION
Organic products are checked more thoroughly than conventional ones, ensuring that only quality ingredients make it into the product. Look for certifications that mention this when selecting aloe vera products if your client has more sensitive skin.
3. EXAMINE THE UTILIZATION OF ALOE
Many parts of the aloe plant can be used in skincare. One is Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, a potent form of aloe vera that science has shown is more effective than the traditional Aloe Vera Gel. Looking for this ingredient over others can ensure you're selecting first-rate products.
4. QUALITY CONTROL Does the company you're buying from have strict quality control regulations? Be sure to check out the company before you purchase any aloe vera products from them. Nothing is more important than your client's health and safety! If you're looking for high-quality aloe vera for sensitive skin, look no further than GlyMed Plus. With pure natural botanicals and pharmaceutical-grade ingredients you can trust, you'll improve your client's skin condition and soothe irritation in no time. Check out our products today to find valuable additions for your treatment room.
GLYMED ADVANCED AESTHETIC INSTITUTE