Ingredient

Aloe vera is a common household plant known for its skin healing properties. Using aloe vera on the face can help moisturize skin.

Regularly applying a small amount of aloe vera to the face can help treat various skin conditions, including acne, eczema, and sunburn.

A person can use the gel directly from an aloe vera plant or buy a bottled variety from a health store.

This article explains how to use aloe vera for the face and looks at the benefits, the conditions it treats, and potential risks.

Using aloe vera on the face has benefits because:

• its anti-inflammatory properties can reduce pain, swelling, and soreness of wounds or injuries
• it supports the production and release of collagen
• it can speed up wound healing time and limits scarring
• it reduces the healing time of first-degree and second-degree burns
• it is effective in treating fungal and bacterial infections
• it has an antioxidant effect that can help repair sun damage and slow down the aging process of the skin
• it protects the skin from the damaging effects of radiation therapy
• it contains 98% water, which helps moisturize, soothe, and hydrate the skin
• it helps to make the skin more flexible and supple, rather than stiff and leathery
• It has a cooling effect on rashes or sunburns

Face wash

After washing the hands, use the fingertips to apply a small amount of the gel to the face. Gently cleanse the face with the aloe vera using a circular motion, covering all the skin. Rinse with cool water and gently pat dry. Follow with aloe vera skin toner.

Skin toner

To make an aloe vera skin toner, mix 2 parts water with 1 part aloe vera gel. Pour into a clean airtight bottle and store it in the refrigerator. Shake well before applying the toner to the face using a fresh cotton ball.

Insect bite treatment

Wash the affected area well with soap and water. Pat dry with a paper towel. Cover the area with aloe vera, leaving it on the skin for 15–20 minutes. Reapply as needed.

For minor skin wounds or cuts

Wash the area well with soap and water and allow it to dry. Apply a small amount of aloe vera to the would or cut. Cover the area with a bandage and allow it to heal overnight. Repeat this process the next day if needed.

Antifungal treatment

Apply a small amount of the gel to the area three times a day for 2 weeks.

For moisturizing effect and eczema relief

Apply a small amount of the gel to the face and leave it on for 5–10 minutes. Rinse off with cool water and gently pat dry.

For acne spots and rosacea

Make an acne solution using 1 tablespoon of aloe vera gel with 2–3 drops of fresh lemon juice. Store the mixture in a sealed jar in the refrigerator. After gently cleansing face, apply a small amount to acne spots and scars once or twice a day.

Alternatively, combine aloe vera gel with several drops of tea tree oil.

For sunburn

Apply chilled aloe vera gel two or three times a day to the sunburned area. Use for several days, or until the skin color has returned to normal and inflammation has improved.

Alternatively, mix 2 parts water to 1 part aloe vera to make a spray. Keep the solution in the refrigerator. When using the spray, avoid the eyes.

For minor burns

Apply just enough chilled aloe vera gel to coat the burn completely. Cover the burn with a bandage. Remove the dressing the next day.

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Medically reviewed by Cynthia Cobb, DNP, APRN, WHNP-BC, FAANP — Written by Kathleen Davis, FNP on June 16, 2020