Aloe Vera Gel
What Is It?
Aloe Vera Gel is a natural, hydrating substance extracted from the inner leaf of the aloe vera plant (Aloe barbadensis). It is widely used in skincare and cosmetics due to its soothing, moisturising, and healing properties.
INCI (International Nomenclature of Cosmetic Ingredients)
Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice (for pure aloe vera gel)
Proper Storage & Shelf Life
Storage: Keep in an airtight container in a cool, dark place.
Shelf Life: Refrigeration extends shelf life. Freshly extracted: ~1 week in the fridge
Commercially stabilised: 1-2 years (with preservatives)
Refined Or Unrefined
Unrefined: Fresh aloe gel extracted directly from the leaf. Short shelf life, requires refrigeration.
Refined: Processed aloe vera gel with preservatives to extend shelf life. May lose some nutrients.
Is It Necessary?
Not essential, but highly beneficial in skincare, after-sun care, and DIY beauty recipes due to its soothing, healing, and hydrating properties.
Texture & Consistency
Fresh: Slightly slimy, watery gel.
Commercial: Smooth, clear or slightly green-tinted gel
Natural Scent Profile
Mild, fresh, slightly herbal scent
Solubility & Compatibility
Water-soluble
Not oil-soluble (requires an emulsifier for oil-based recipes)
Compatible with water-based skincare and haircare products
Benefits In Your Skincare
Deeply hydrates and soothes the skin
Helps heal burns, sunburn, and wounds
Reduces inflammation and redness
Contains antioxidants and vitamins (A, C, E)
Supports skin regeneration and anti-aging
Helps control acne and irritation
PH
Typically ranges from 4.5 to 5.5, making it slightly acidic
Absorbency Rate
Fast-absorbing, lightweight, and penetrates deeply into the skin without leaving a greasy residue.
Recommended Usage Rate
Skincare: 5-50% (can be used at 100% in DIY applications)
Haircare: 5-20% for hydration and scalp care
After-Sun Gel: 70-100% for soothing sunburn
Appearance
Transparent or slightly yellow-green
Gel-like consistency
Strengths
✅ Hydrates and soothes the skin
✅ Naturally anti-inflammatory and antibacterial
✅ Supports healing and skin regeneration
✅ Non-greasy and easily absorbed
✅ Suitable for all skin types
Weaknesses
❌ Fresh gel spoils quickly without preservatives
❌ Can be sticky if used in high amounts
❌ May cause irritation in sensitive individuals
❌ Some commercial gels contain unnecessary additives
Alternative Ingredients/ Substitutions
Cucumber Gel: Similar cooling and hydrating effect
Glycerine: Hydrating, but lacks healing properties
Hyaluronic Acid: Provides deep hydration but not as soothing
Chamomile Extract: Anti-inflammatory and soothing
Best Practices
Use preservatives if making a DIY gel for longer shelf life.
Blend with humectants (e.g., glycerine, hyaluronic acid) for enhanced hydration.
If combining with oils, use an emulsifier (e.g., lecithin).
Refrigerate fresh aloe gel to slow spoilage.
Tips & Tricks
For sunburn relief: Apply directly or mix with lavender essential oil.
For acne: Mix with a few drops of tea tree oil.
For dry hair: Use as a leave-in scalp treatment.
For anti-aging: Combine with vitamin C or niacinamide.
Recommended Starter Amount
Fresh use: 250g–500g
DIY recipes: 1L+ for bulk skincare production