Aloe vera is a short-stemmed shrub typically found in areas with hot and dry climates. This succulent has been used for thousands of years to treat various health conditions, such as burns, rashes, and eczema.
Can you use aloe vera for your eyes? The short answer is: yes. Aloe vera is packed with a host of active nutrients, vitamins, minerals, and amino acids that can help treat and manage certain eye-related health concerns.
If you’re wondering whether aloe vera is an effective treatment option, read on to learn more about how it can help the skin around your eyes.
#1 Aloe Vera Helps Improve the Appearance of Dark Circles
Dark circles occur when the skin under the eyes looks darker than usual. Dark circles are common and are usually not a sign of a medical problem. Most people believe that dark circles are caused by tiredness or lack of sleep. However, there are other reasons for their occurrence, such as:
- Age: As you get older, the skin around the eyes gets thinner. As a result, the blood vessels become more visible, causing the under-eye area to darken.
- Allergies: Allergic reactions cause the body to release histamines, which cause the blood vessels to dilate and become more visible.
- Dehydration: The under-eye area is very susceptible to dehydration. When you’re dehydrated, the skin under your eyes starts to look thinner and duller.
- Excessive Sun Exposure: Overexposure to sunlight can result in the overproduction of melanin, the complex polymer responsible for skin and hair pigmentation. When there’s too much melanin, hyperpigmentation in the under-eye area can occur.
- Genetics: Dark circles can be hereditary.
- Strain: Staring at a computer or television screen can cause eyestrain. The results can also cause the blood vessels around the eyes to expand and become more prominent.
Aloe gel can help lighten skin pigmentation and discoloration in the under-eye area. It keeps your skin supple and well-moisturized to counteract the symptoms of dehydration. A study also showed that aloe vera might help support mature skin by improving skin elasticity, boosting the production of hyaluronic acid and collagen, and reducing facial wrinkles.
#2 Aloe Vera Helps Relieve Irritation Or Redness
The delicate skin around the eyes can become irritated from sun exposure, medication, dehydration, and even daily cleansing. Aloe gel contains enzymes and fatty acids that help reduce inflammation and redness.
Aloe vera also has anti-fungal, anti-bacterial, and anti-inflammatory properties that help soothe the affected area, heal the skin, and prevent infection. Just keep in mind that aloe vera’s effects on skin inflammation are often temporary. If the symptoms last longer than a few days, it’s best to seek professional medical help for proper evaluation and treatment.
#3 Aloe Vera Helps Relieve Puffiness or Swelling
Morning puffiness is caused by the accumulation of fluid around the eyes. Some of the typical causes are excessive salt consumption, stress, dehydration, fatigue, and allergies. Because the skin in this area is relatively thin, even tiny amounts of fluid can lead to noticeable swelling.
Aloe vera has powerful antioxidant properties that are highly effective in reducing swelling or puffiness around the eyes. The perennial plant contains magnesium, potassium, selenium, and zinc, which help strengthen the skin and repair damaged cells.
#4 Aloe Vera Helps Moisturize Dry Or Flaky Skin
Dryness is a common problem around the eyes. Unfortunately, it can be tough to resist scratching at dry skin — which may lead to more severe issues. Aloe vera contains water and enzymes that help moisturize the skin and reduce itchiness and flakiness. The plant’s zinc content helps tighten pores, while its amino acids keep skin soft.
If you see milia or small white bumps in the under-eye area, they’re most likely caused by the excess keratin that gets trapped beneath the skin’s surface. Aloe vera’s exfoliating properties can help release the trapped keratin and eliminate those unsightly bumps.
Building a Private Label Skincare Brand? Contact Us to See How We Can Help
Aloe vera is an incredible plant with so much to offer. If you’re planning to build your own private label skincare brand, looking into aloe vera products can be a great starting point. Let us help.At Aloe Laboratories, we pride ourselves on rising to our clients’ expectations and delivering high-quality products while adhering to strict safety standards. Contact us today to learn about how we can turn your dream project into reality.