A succulent plant with strong decorative potential, aloe vera is also an ingredient used in the composition of many skin and scalp care products. The viscous and transparent gel extracted from the plant has multiple benefits. However, under certain conditions, this gel can turn from yellow to brown. Let's explore the causes of this color change here.
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Why does aloe vera change color?
Summary
- Aloe vera: A plant with a thousand virtues
- Why does aloe vera change color and how can it be prevented?
- Sources
Published February 13, 2023,
updated on October 2, 2024,
by
Pauline, Chemical Engineer
—
5 min read
Aloe vera: A plant with a thousand virtues.
Thealoe vera is a succulent plant that belongs to the Asphodelaceae family. Its fleshy and thick leaves make it easy to recognize. These leaves contain a gel that is highly valued in cosmetics and often used in the production of skin and hair care products. The aloe vera is primarily composed of water but also contains enzymes, amino acids, and minerals. This composition gives it several of its properties:
Soothing and anti-inflammatory : aloe vera gel is capable of inhibiting the production of certain pro-inflammatory molecules, thus helping to calm skin redness and discomfort.
Antioxidants : this ingredient boosts the production of metallothioneins, proteins with antioxidant roles that limit oxidative stress. This increases tissue resilience and slows down cellular aging.
Healing : The application of aloe vera gel helps to speed up the healing process by promoting the development of new capillary vessels (angiogenesis) and cellular proliferation.
Moisturizers : The hygroscopic amino acids in the gel limit the evaporation of water on the surface of the epidermis without forming an occlusive film on its surface. As a result, the skin appears more hydrated and soft.
Regenerative : the polysaccharides present in the gel allow it to increase the production of collagen and elastin by the fibroblasts, proteins partly responsible for the structure of the skin and its suppleness. As a result, the skin gains in tone and elasticity.
Regulators of blood microcirculation : this botanical extract can also be used to alleviate issues related to poor blood circulation, such as dark circles or heavy legs.
Why does aloe vera change color and how can it be prevented?
Aloe vera gel is typically transparent and does not exhibit any specific color. However, it may occasionally develop a slight yellow tint over time. This phenomenon can be attributed to the oxidation of the aloe vera gel when exposed to air. Heat can also contribute to the degradation of the gel. This is why it should be stored in a cool place. If its olfactory properties remain unchanged, the application of this gel poses no risk.
However, when the color change is pronounced and the gel turns from ochre to brown, and/or its smell changes, it is recommended to stop using it.
This is why the aloe vera pulp is immediately stabilized after its extraction. This is done by homogenizing it with certain substances that neutralize the action of enzymes without destroying them, which are responsible for the rapid oxidation of the gel when exposed to air. In this way, they are always present in the gel and it retains its benefits. Before being incorporated into skincare products, it typically undergoes a second stabilization for improved effectiveness and greater safety.
How to properly store aloe vera gel?
In order to prevent any risk of oxidation or degradation of the aloe vera gel, it must be stored in a hermetically sealed and opaque container. After extraction, the aloe vera gel can be kept 24 to 48 hours in the refrigerator. However, it is possible to preserve it for a longer period by adding vitamin C and E.
To do this, mix the aloe vera gel with one or two of these vitamins (approximately 500 mg of vitamins for 60 mL of gel). This way, you can keep your gel for 6 months in the refrigerator. One final tip is to freeze it. Aloe vera ice cubes can generally be stored for a year in the freezer.
Sources
SAPLE D. G. & al. Aloe vera: a brief review. Indian Journal of Dermatology (2008).
CHUNG J. H. & others. Dietary aloe vera supplementation improves facial wrinkles and elasticity and it enhances the expression of the type I procollagen gene in human skin in vivo. Annals of Dermatology (2009).
Dissertation by Margaux ROULLIER. The topical use of aloe vera gel and its healing properties (2015).
LI J. & al. Aloe vera: a medicinal plant utilized in skin wound healing. Tissue Engineering (2021).
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