Generally aloe vera is a well-tolerated ingredient, but like any ingredient, it’s possible to develop dermatitis or hives afterwards," explains Dr Shotter. "This is more common in people who have allergies to other plants in the lily family, such as onions and garlic." The clear gel that is inside the leaves can be taken directly from the plant," says Dr Phillips. It is this gel that’s commonly used in beauty products for its hydration and soothing properties. A highly effective hydrating and soothing moisturiser for all over the body Made with the finest, most pure, 100% organic Aloe Vera Aloe vera is effective when it comes to soothing and cooling the skin, which is why it’s associated with sunburn. It’s essential to use SPF all the time and avoid unprotected sun exposure where possible, but if the unspeakable happens and you’re caught out, it is a great at-home solution.

For so many of us, aloe vera was one of the first “skincare” products we used. It might have been to soothe a cut, a burn, or overexposure to the sun, but even now with years and products under our belt, it’s still something we call on regularly. The gel within the aloe plants can be used on the face, body and scalp to help with skin concerns you may have, avoiding the delicate eye area," advises Dr Phillips. "It’s used in many products for sunburn relief, hair care, pore cleansing and skin moisturising."It also contains enzymes, which break down fatty acids and may, therefore, help with greasy scalps." But besides treating sunburn, aloe vera is a useful ingredient in terms of general hydration and nourishment. The plant gel itself is full of vitamins, enzymes, minerals, salicylic acids, and amino acids, making it great for every skin type.

Want to hear more about healthy-hair ingredients? Our guide to nixing problems with your crowning glory should help. For centuries, aloe vera has been touted by many cultures as a cure-all for easing the symptoms of everything from irritation to wrinkles, but it’s only recently hit the mainstream in any significant way (beyond the aforementioned neon green bottle anyway). Here, we uncover the truth about aloe vera’s benefits, what it can really do for your skin and how you should use it for the best results. But with that being said, she explains that it’s still a wonderful addition to skincare products, so don’t hesitate if it's listed as one of the ingredients.However, "be sure to use a product that’s not mixed with harsh chemicals and ingredients," advises Dr Phillips. "Aloe vera holds many benefits when used raw, and even when bottled for manufacturing uses. But the added ingredients to preserve aloe vera to prolong its shelf-life can irritate some users’ skin." Melanie Grant is a trusted aesthetician and the brains behind some of the most enviable complexions in the business.

Aloe vera tends to have a calming effect on the skin, especially its water-dense leaves, which allow it to thrive in dry and unstable climates. "When the gel from within the plant’s leaves is applied, it has a cooling sensation that provides instant relief," says Dr Philips. According to the Skin Cancer Foundation (SCF), aloe vera is safe to use for soothing mild sunburns. So unless you have a specific allergy or sensitivity, aloe is great if you want to soothe skin and reduce redness.If your skin is dry and you want extra hydration, look for other moisturizing ingredients along with aloe, like glycerin and camellia oil in Innisfree Vitalizing Soothing Gel or purslane in Dr. Barbara Sturm Aloe Vera Gel.From how to use it in its raw form to the best aloe vera products out there, here’s everything you need to know about the super-soother While clinical evidence supporting its use for hair is very limited, aloe vera is often used to help ease symptoms of scalp conditions such as dandruff," says cosmetic dermatologist, Dr Surbhi Virmani.