If skincare ads are to be believed, getting older means gradually spending more and more money on complicated anti-aging products. Yet many experts say that you can resist that manipulative messaging, opting instead for natural, inexpensive solutions to your skincare needs. In particular, many say that aloe vera gel, extracted from the succulent aloe vera plant, can provide a range of benefits to your beauty routine—especially if you’re over the age of 50. Read on to learn the top five reasons to add aloe vera to your daily skincare regimen, according to experts.
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Many dermatologists and beauty experts argue that natural skincare products with fewer ingredients are better for your skin. Aloe vera is a perfect example of a single-ingredient, high-impact moisturizer. It provides deep hydration without exposing you to unhealthy parabens, sulfates, phthalates, fragrances, and more.
“Aloe vera is a versatile plant known for its skin healing and moisturizing properties,” says Krista Suter, RN, BSN, co-owner of BLUR Aesthetics Medical Spa. “It hydrates the skin without leaving a greasy feel, making it ideal for anyone with an oily skin complexion.”
Julia Shih, founder and owner of the skincare and wellness company Body + Soul, agrees that aloe vera is an ideal moisturizer for people over 50.
“Look for aloe vera as an ingredient in moisturizers and serums or apply it directly by snapping a leaf off the plant and squeezing out the fresh gel,” she advises.
Whether you apply it as a cream, gel, or mask, aloe vera also works as an effective anti-aging serum, says Suter. “Aloe Vera is rich in vitamins C and E, both of which are known to be vital for healthy skin and also help to improve firmness, reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.”
Applying aloe vera can also stimulate collagen production, which helps aging skin stay supple, radiant, and resistant to damage, says Shih. She adds that this makes aloe vera a particularly useful skincare elixir for people over the age of 50.
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Nothing can replace taking precautions against harmful UV rays—sunscreen, protective clothing, and limiting your direct sun exposure are all a must, especially on sunny summer days.
However, aloe vera can help relieve the symptoms of a sunburn if you do accidentally burn, “a crucial consideration for individuals aged 50 and above, as their skin becomes more vulnerable to sun damage,” notes Liis Hainla, head editor for Vegan Avenue, a guide to vegan beauty brands.
“With its cooling effect, aloe vera soothes the skin and supports its healing process, offering relief from sunburns,” explains Hainla. “Whether applied in its pure gel form or incorporated into sunscreen products, aloe vera aids in alleviating discomfort and reducing inflammation caused by sunburn.”
Using aloe vera can also help ensure that you don’t see long-lasting signs of sun damage. “Age spots, liver spots, freckles, and other unwanted pigmentation issues can be treated using aloe vera,” says Suter. She adds that the aloin in aloe vera “works wonders in lightening pigmentation.”
Suter says there’s another use for aloe vera that benefits people over 50: “Aloe vera can also be used as a shaving gel—its cooling properties soothe the skin.”
This is especially useful for people over the age of 50, who tend to have drier, thinner skin that’s more vulnerable to cuts and irritation.
When applied before shaving, aloe vera can help the razor glide easily over sensitive areas, reducing the risk of accidental nicks. When applied after, it can reduce inflammation of the skin.
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A recent study published in the journal Menopause found that 52 percent of women over 50 experience hair loss. Sixty percent of those women experiencing hair loss also reported low levels of self-esteem.
Other research shows that one’s scalp condition can determine hair growth and retention. Though there is not enough research on the subject to say that aloe vera conclusively promotes hair growth, many people swear by it anecdotally.
“Aloe vera’s uses aren’t limited to just skincare. Applying aloe vera juice to your scalp can help with hydration and maintaining overall scalp health, which in turn promotes healthier hair,” says Suter.
