For so many of us, aloe vera was one of the first “skincare” products we used. It might have been to soothe a cut, a burn, or overexposure to the sun, but even now with years and products under our belt, it’s still something we call on regularly.

Also known as the 'burn plant', aloe vera is commonly used in skincare products to aid sunburn and heat damage to our skin, due to its natural antiseptic properties." The spiky succulent grows naturally in dry, tropical climates in Africa, Asia, Europe, and the southern and western parts of the US. A highly effective hydrating and soothing moisturiser for all over the body Made with the finest, most pure, 100% organic Aloe Vera It’s always important to assess what’s going on with your skin and if aloe will help (or hurt) your goals. According to aesthetician Melanie Grant, aloe vera is a “predominantly water-based succulent plant that has antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antibacterial properties, making it a wound-healing hero and perfect for those experiencing redness and irritation.” She adds that it also shares the same pH as skin, which makes it gentle enough for those of us prone to irritation.The gel within the aloe plants can be used on the face, body and scalp to help with skin concerns you may have, avoiding the delicate eye area," advises Dr Phillips. "It’s used in many products for sunburn relief, hair care, pore cleansing and skin moisturising." So what about aloe in skincare? Is this still effective or should we be looking for pure gels only? Grant suggests that for those who require constant soothing (such as after a sunburn), applying pure gel, like the nearly 100% aloe vera gel by Badger is a great solution as the skin will receive the direct benefits in the most potent form. As it heals the skin, itching is soothed, redness is minimized, and hydration is replenished. Dr Phillips adds: "If you do react to aloe vera, you will notice an itching, burning sensation. If this occurs, ensure you rinse the aloe vera off with water immediately." However, "be sure to use a product that’s not mixed with harsh chemicals and ingredients," advises Dr Phillips. "Aloe vera holds many benefits when used raw, and even when bottled for manufacturing uses. But the added ingredients to preserve aloe vera to prolong its shelf-life can irritate some users’ skin." But with that being said, she explains that it’s still a wonderful addition to skincare products, so don’t hesitate if it's listed as one of the ingredients.

Melanie Grant is a trusted aesthetician and the brains behind some of the most enviable complexions in the business.While clinical evidence supporting its use for hair is very limited, aloe vera is often used to help ease symptoms of scalp conditions such as dandruff," says cosmetic dermatologist, Dr Surbhi Virmani.

Aesthetic and skin doctor Dr Sophie Shotter adds: "It contains fatty acids and amino acids, as well as being rich in vitamins A, B12, C and E, which contribute towards stronger hair and healthy follicles."So unless you have a specific allergy or sensitivity, aloe is great if you want to soothe skin and reduce redness.If your skin is dry and you want extra hydration, look for other moisturizing ingredients along with aloe, like glycerin and camellia oil in Innisfree Vitalizing Soothing Gel or purslane in Dr. Barbara Sturm Aloe Vera Gel.

It also contains enzymes, which break down fatty acids and may, therefore, help with greasy scalps." Apply the lotion every day, to the whole body, gently massaging until absorbed. It can be used as often as required.

Rewards For Life

But besides treating sunburn, aloe vera is a useful ingredient in terms of general hydration and nourishment. The plant gel itself is full of vitamins, enzymes, minerals, salicylic acids, and amino acids, making it great for every skin type. For centuries, aloe vera has been touted by many cultures as a cure-all for easing the symptoms of everything from irritation to wrinkles, but it’s only recently hit the mainstream in any significant way (beyond the aforementioned neon green bottle anyway). Here, we uncover the truth about aloe vera’s benefits, what it can really do for your skin and how you should use it for the best results. Dr Shotter tells us that those with sensitive and irritated skin are likely to benefit the most from choosing aloe vera over other moisturising products. From how to use it in its raw form to the best aloe vera products out there, here’s everything you need to know about the super-soother