pure aloe vera gel for skin - #19915
I am really confused about this whole pure aloe vera gel for skin thing. A month ago, I started using an organic pure aloe vera gel for skin that I found online. I was dealing with some pretty bad acne and thought this might help since everyone raves about it. At first, it felt great and my skin was loving it! But then, after a couple of weeks, I noticed my face getting kinda red and a little itchy. Like, is that normal?? I've read that pure aloe vera gel for skin should be soothing but I'm not sure if what I'm using is real aloe or just some sort of fake stuff. Also, I tried checking the ingredients and there are some other additives I didn't expect. Could those be causing issues? Shouldn’t pure aloe vera gel for skin be just that — pure??? Anyway, I’m debating if I should continue using it or look for a different brand, but I’m scared of making my skin worse. Anyone have similar experience or opinions on what a real pure aloe vera gel for skin should feel like? Just looking for some advice before I end up in a bigger mess!
100% Anonymously
No sign-up needed.

Doctors' responses
When it comes to using aloe vera gel for skin, especially for conditions like acne, it’s important to understand what’s in the product you’re using. Aloe vera is known for its soothing and anti-inflammatory properties, thus it can be beneficial for calming irritated skin and potentially aiding acne. However, the term “pure” aloe vera can sometimes be misleading on labels. If there are additives or preservatives, these can potentially irritate sensitive skin, especially if you’re allergic or sensitive to certain chemicals or preservatives commonly used in skincare products. You mentioned redness and itching after a few weeks of use, and this could indeed be an indication of a sensitivity or allergic reaction to one of the ingredients. It’s worth checking the ingredient list more closely for alcohol, fragrances, or other additives that could be problematic for your skin type.
For truly pure aloe vera, the ingredient list should ideally have aloe barbadensis leaf juice as one of the first ingredients listed, and minimal other components. Given the irritation you’ve been experiencing, pausing the use of this product might be wise to see if your skin calms down. Consider performing a patch test with any new product by applying a small amount on your inner forearm or jawline, observing for any adverse reactions over 24-48 hours before applying it more broadly.
If you’re dealing with persistent skin issues, consulting with a dermatologist can provide guidance tailored specifically to your skin type and condition. They might suggest a different skincare regimen or specific products known to work well for acne-prone and sensitive skin. Remember, patience is key when trialing new skincare products, and introducing one product at a time can help identify the cause of any new skin issues. If ever in doubt, err on the side of caution, especially when dealing with skin that’s sensitive or prone to irritation.
100% Anonymously
Get expert answers anytime, completely confidential. No sign-up needed.
About our doctors
Only qualified doctors who have confirmed the availability of medical education and other certificates of medical practice consult on our service. You can check the qualification confirmation in the doctor's profile.