Aloe vera belongs to the lily family and has been used as a medicinal plant in its native Arabia for more than 6,000 years – and not just for sunburn. The gel-like sap of the mature, outer aloe leaves helps against various skin conditions and has proven particularly effective in treating sunburn.
Since the beginning of the 20th century, aloe vera has also been used in Europe for cosmetic and medicinal purposes. It contains ingredients with diverse effects like no other plant, so the list of uses seems almost endless. The plant is a true all-rounder in terms of its effects. The desert lily – as it is also called – now appears in hygiene products, detergents, food, and cosmetics, such as Aloe Vera Gel or Aloe Vera Spray.
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Why aloe vera for sunburn?
Sunburn is caused by excessive UVA and UVB radiation – whether on vacation, in the garden, or simply while walking outside. But be careful: With severe sunburn, the skin is not only irritated for a short time, but the skin cells are also destroyed. Skin regeneration can take up to several weeks, which can be shortened by using aloe vera. After-sun creams or ointments do not cure sunburn. Some commercially available products even contain fragrances that can trigger allergies, as well as PEGs, which are suspected of being carcinogenic (source: "Öko Test" issue 07/2019*). A pure, natural aloe vera gel is far more recommended, as it cools the skin and absorbs faster. It is easy to apply and spreads painlessly. Aloe vera contains over 300 ingredients such as minerals, amino acids, and vitamins that support skin regeneration after sunburn. Furthermore, using aloe vera helps the skin tan longer.
What are the benefits of aloe vera for sunburn?
The ingredients of aloe vera are ideal care for irritated skin – especially after sunburn. These special effects of aloe vera on sunburn are well-known and proven:
- Moisturizes
- Strengthens the immune system
- Inhibits inflammation
- Relieves pain
- Strengthens the organism
- Heals wounds faster
- Detoxifies
- Supports skin regeneration
- Has an antibacterial effect
- Soothes the skin
- Provides vitality
Where can I quickly get aloe vera if I have sunburn?
If you don't have an aloe vera plant at home, you can get ready-made aloe vera gel from the pharmacy (Order number: 16573212). The best gel for sunburn is one made directly from the fresh juice of the plant, not from a powder. It should contain only natural ingredients to avoid further stressing irritated skin. Quality seals such as "Dermatest" indicate how well-tolerated the aloe vera gel is. If you have an aloe vera plant at home, you can cut off one of the thick outer leaves with a sharp kitchen knife. Then cover the cut area with cling film and place the leaf in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. Depending on the size of the sunburned area, a piece of leaf is then cut off. The rest of the leaf can be stored in the refrigerator and used later. The leaf is cut lengthwise, and the gel is scraped out with a knife. The aloe vera gel can be applied immediately to the affected area of skin – the more often, the better.
Pure natural aloe vera gel for skin & Hair by Casida
Casida's Aloe Vera Gel for Skin & Hair is extracted directly from the fresh juice of the aloe vera plant. With its very high aloe vera concentration, it provides maximum moisture and is ideal for sunburn. Casida's pure Aloe Vera Gel is natural and contains only natural ingredients. It is dermatologically tested and rated "very good." The Aloe Vera Gel also helps with scars, stretch marks, and all types of skin irritations.
Good to know: Aloe vera is also ideal for scalp & hair care. Learn more about Aloe Vera Gel for Hair in our blog post.
*Source: Öko Test 2019 "After-Sun Tested: Well-Known Creams and Lotions Don't Convince" Read the article at www.oekotest.de
Important Note / Disclaimer: As pharmacists, we share our pharmaceutical expertise and wealth of naturopathic experience in the Casida guide. An individual diagnosis and consultation are always necessary. Therefore, this offer cannot replace medical advice. This offer is not intended to treat, cure, or prevent any disease. It is not a substitute for medication or other treatments prescribed by a doctor.
