As far back as 6,000 years ago, Egyptian queens, Nefertiti and Cleopatra, used the powerful aloe vera plant as part of their beauty regimens. The ancient Egyptians referred to aloe vera as the “Plant of Immortality,” and according to legend, the Pharaoh kept aloe as an esteemed palace plant.

Aloe vera has had a longstanding health tradition throughout the world, from ancient Egypt and Greece to China and Japan. The clear gel in the leaves of this succulent plant continues to be used today. It has an extensive range of benefits when applied topically.

Bursting with benefits

The clear gel that seeps from the plant’s triangular, fleshy leaves is 99 percent water with a potent blend of:

♦ Up to 75 different vitamins, enzymes, and other nutrients

♦ Antioxidants that may help to neutralize free radicals

♦ Lignin, which helps the aloe gel cross into seven skin layers

♦ Saponins and salicylic acid, which can help protect against seasonal germs

Fountain of youth?

As you age, the outer layer of the skin thins. Changes in the skin’s structure reduce the skin’s elasticity and firmness, leading to wrinkles, fine lines, and sagging skin. Sun damage has been known to accelerate these changes. Thankfully, aloe vera can help address many of these issues.

Glucomannan and acemannan in aloe vera stimulate the production of fibroblast cells, which produce collagen. The botanical gel also contains enzymes that encourage the shedding of dead skin cells, which diminishes the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

Aloe vera is capable of penetrating and hydrating all seven layers, so skin is able to heal and regenerate throughout the day.

By stimulating the skin’s ability to regenerate and deeply penetrating the skin with moisture, aloe vera is effective in fighting the effects of aging.

The benefits of aloe in one package

Simple Beauty has made it easy for you to experience the benefits of aloe by incorporating this natural remedy into our Simple Beauty Trio.  Using aloe vera leaf juice as a hydrating base, the Purifying Cleanser, Fine Line Eye Serum, and Age-Defying Moisturizer all work together to deep cleanse, revive, and replenish the moisture in your skin without using chemicals that can harm your skin in the long run. 

The aloe works with the Purifying Cleanser to enhance the supple appearance of soft, smooth, moisturized skin. It works with the Eye Serum to help hydrate and revitalize the skin around and underneath the eyes. The aloe vera in the Age-Defying Retinol Moisturizer works together with chamomile flower extract and other natural botanicals to replenish collagen, elastin, and moisture lost to aging. The formula also encourages the skin to slough away dead cells, minimizing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

Aloe vera gel & the sun

The gel from the aloe vera plant contains two chemicals that may be able to provide relief from sunburn, which can stimulate regrowth of tissue and provide relief from basic inflammation. 

These two compounds work together to boost the immune system. In addition, the plant’s gel has properties that may prevent infection. Aloe vera also works to hydrate burned skin, which will prevent peeling.

The most effective form of aloe vera is in pure gel, which can be applied directly to the affected areas of your skin. If you choose to use an over-the-counter ointment, lotion, or cream, try to avoid products with petroleum, benzocaine, or lidocaine. Petroleum actually traps heat in the skin, while benzocaine and lidocaine can be irritants.

Apply aloe vera gel by gently rubbing a generous amount of gel over the affected area, 2 to 3 times each day until the burn is no longer uncomfortable. The sooner you begin to use aloe vera on your sunburn, the faster it will heal.

To put it simply

While aloe is known for its burn-soothing qualities, it also has many other potential uses. A respected ingredient used since ancient Egypt, aloe vera is known for its extensive healing properties, including its ability to address the skin issues caused by sun damage and aging. 

With consistent use, aloe vera and Simple Beauty’s line of skincare products containing naturally-derived ingredients and botanicals can help you achieve a healthy, vital glow. A blending of the best of nature with cutting edge science is sure to deliver the most effective results.