Inside Out: Aloe Vera, Vitamin E Work Wonders for Skin and Hair

by Matthew Dello Russo

Aloe vera has been a staple in the skincare realm for thousands of years. Early Egyptians referred to it as the “plant of immortality”, and the legendary Cleopatra swore its properties kept her young, healthy, and beautiful. vitamin E, an antioxidant found in abundance in the Aloe plant, has been long touted as an effective way to treat unsightly scars and stretch marks.

While many people know that the gel from an Aloe Vera plant can temporarily treat minor burns, most consumers don’t know that it’s absolutely loaded with powerful antioxidants (like vitamin E) that also work wonders for human skin and hair. It’s time to stop relegating this potent compound to post-sunburn duty; introduce it (and all of its nutrients) into your beauty regimen today for astounding results.

The Miracle Plant

Aloe Vera is a flowering succulent plant, capable of retaining vast stores of water in its thick and fleshy leaves. The leaves produce two distinct substances: the medicinal gel, comprised of water and several essential nutrients, and the sap, which is used primarily as a laxative. Brimming with active enzymes, vitamins, minerals, and amino acids, Aloe gel is known for its inherent ability to pacify agitated skin. By replacing lost moisture and introducing therapeutic vitamins and minerals to damaged skin, the gel speeds up healing processes and immediately reduces pain.

Sadly, Aloe gel usually receives all the credit for soothing seared skin, leaving the true champions – the individual curative agents found within the gel - unrecognized.

An Unsung Hero

vitamin E is undoubtedly one of the most criminally underappreciated and underutilized products available to the public. A powerful healing agent, it repairs damaged collagen and protects the skin from free radicals. The restorative properties of E are the primary reason that Aloe gel is capable of successfully treating scorched skin. More importantly, vitamin E doesn’t just repair damaged cells: it also boosts levels of new collagen production and fortifies existing stores, keeping skin elastic and impervious to everyday stressors. These characteristics make E an effective anti-aging remedy, as wrinkles often develop when collagen production slows and environmental toxins are free to attack vulnerable skin.

What’s most remarkable is vitamin E’s ability to work in almost any form, from capsules taken orally to oils applied directly to the skin. The latter, albeit not yet as popular, is a simple and cost-efficient way to shore up your skincare regimen this year.

Topical Applications

The hydrating properties of vitamin E oil make it ideal for the topical treatment of chronic dry skin, eczema, or psoriasis. It fights wrinkles before they start, and also serves as a great alternative to chemical-laden moisturizers or chap sticks. Because it is a natural anti-inflammatory, vitamin E oil is safe for use with even the most sensitive skin. The benefits of this versatile antioxidant extend to hair and nails, too. Soaking fingertips and cuticles in vitamin E oil can help produce robust, beautiful nails, while consistent application to the scalp encourages blood flow and facilitates natural growth patterns.

Goodbye to Split Ends

In order to create a truly nontoxic hair treatment safe enough for everyday use, combine a bit of honey, lemon juice, vitamin E oil, coconut oil, and water in a bowl. The resulting mixture should be slightly sticky but not terribly thick: use more parts water than honey, and add more water as needed. Massage the whole mixture across your scalp, working it through the hair as you would shampoo. Let sit for 35 minutes before rinsing with lukewarm water. This formula will restore hair damaged by chemical coloring or excessive heat, and can be used throughout the week.

Say No to the Crow (and Other Wrinkles)

If you’re dealing with wrinkle-prone skin in more sensitive areas (shoulders, neck, face), use a lighter, breezier version of the treatment listed above. Mix vitamin E oil, water, mashed papaya, and a splash of lemon juice in a bowl, using more parts water to avoid making a paste. Apply the strained solution to clean, dry skin, allowing it to sit for up to 20 minutes. Rinse off with lukewarm water. Using this mixture every few days will increase collagen production, helping to fight off existing wrinkles and fine lines while noticeably slowing the aging process.

If you or someone you know would like more information about hair loss and how to treat it, please feel free to schedule a consultation or contact one of our representatives today!