fresh aloe vera gel for face - #20112
I am really curious about using fresh aloe vera gel for face lately. I started growing my own aloe vera plant, which is like super exciting for me, but I’ve heard mixed things on how to use the fresh aloe vera gel for face. Maybe a month ago, I tried just slicing off a leaf and applying the gel directly to my skin after a long day out in the sun, feeling all burnt and itchy. At first, it felt so soothing, but then my skin broke out like crazy!! Like, why did that happen? I thought fresh aloe vera gel for face was supposed to be all good for soothing redness and helping with acne. I even used it for a whole week thinking it would get better but nope, it got worse! Should I just stop using fresh aloe vera gel for face altogether? Or is it that my skin is just too sensitive? I've read some docs say it helps with hydration, but my experience has been like the opposite! I really want to know if anyone else had a similar problem with fresh aloe vera gel for face or if I’m doing it wrong. Also, can the freshness of the gel make a difference in results or is it just my skin acting up? Super confused here!!
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Doctors’ responses
Using fresh aloe vera gel on the face can be soothing and beneficial for some people, but it may cause issues such as breakouts or irritation in others. The reaction you’re experiencing could be due to several reasons. First, even though aloe vera is generally soothing, it can sometimes cause allergic reactions or irritations, especially if you leave it on for extended periods, leading to breakouts or increased redness. Your skin might be sensitive to fresh aloe or any specific compounds within the aloe that vary in concentration in fresh gel compared to commercial products. Secondly, some impurities on the leaf’s surface or within the gel might have contaminated the gel you applied. Washing and cleaning the aloe leaf thoroughly before use is important. Third, some people have a natural sensitivity to aloe, causing worsening of skin issues rather than improvement. You might also want to consider if other factors like sun exposure or additional skincare products could contribute to the adverse reaction. Trying a patch test with the gel on a small, less visible area of your skin before reapplying it more broadly can help determine if it’s a problem. Regarding freshness, the concentration of active compounds can indeed vary with freshness, sometimes increasing the risk of irritation. If reactions continue, it’s wise to stop using the gel altogether. Alternatively, you might use a commercially processed aloe vera product that’s been filtered and tested for consistency. If you continue to have issues or if your skin condition worsens, consulting a dermatologist would be beneficial to understand the root cause and adjust your skincare routine setting. While aloe is beneficial for many, individual reactions vary, and it’s crucial to adapt to what suits your skin best. Ensuring no compounding factors cause these reactions will ensure you navigate these options safer. Understanding what works for you specifically should guide future skincare choices.
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