Aloe Vera for Eczema: A Natural Remedy.

Aloe vera is a plant of the Asphodelaceae family. It is easily recognizable by its thick and fleshy leaves, evoking the structure of a lotus flower. The aesthetics of aloe vera makes it a popular houseplant for decoration lovers. However, this plant is not only beautiful, it is also beneficial for skin suffering from eczema thanks to its many properties.

• Aloe vera gel is moisturizing. This characteristic comes from its composition. Rich in amino acids and hygroscopic polysaccharides, it moisturizes the epidermis and does not leave any greasy film on the skin surface. The skins with atopic tendency particularly require a good hydration because of the fragility of their hydrolipidic film.

• The aloe vera gel is also healing. The acemannan molecule, present in aloe vera gel, stimulates the production of collagen and glycosaminoglycans. These extracellular matrix compounds help maintain the structure of the skin. In addition, the glucomannan also present in this gel acts on the fibroblast growth factor, TGF-β1, which increases their activity. The secretion of elastin and collagen by the fibroblasts is thus amplified. Topical application of aloe vera gel on skin suffering from eczema can thus help reduce the presence of lesions and red patches.

• The anti-inflammatory action of this botanical extract also allows it to reduce the redness and itching caused by eczema. Aloe vera gel soothes the skin by limiting the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines such as TNF-α and interleukin 6. TNF-α is targeted by certain flavonoids (quercetin and kaempferol) contained in aloe vera gel and its activity is inhibited.

Topical application of aloe vera gel on red patches is thus a way to relieve an eczema attack. Moreover, the gel obtained from this plant brings a sensation of freshness, soothing the itch and irritations.

Please note: While aloe vera gel does help 

soothe the symptoms of eczema, 

it is not a miracle solution and will not cure it.

This ingredient is suitable for sensitive skin and there are no contraindications to its application. Nevertheless, it may be prudent to perform a tolerance test before using it regularly on atopic skin. To do this, apply a few drops to the hollow of the elbow or behind the ear, and wait 24 hours. If no adverse reaction is observed, you can use aloe for eczema.

However, it is important to know that the studies cited were not conducted on people with eczema, but on skin with various wounds and injuries. The properties of aloe vera for eczema presented here have therefore not been directly demonstrated.