A study carried out on the effects of Aloe vera ( Aloe barbadensis ) on protection against UVA-modulated cell destruction (a major risk factor for human cancer also associated with the induction of inflammation, immunosuppression, photoaging and melanogenesis) showed the remarkable ability to reduce photodamage in vitro and in vivo, even though it does not have antiradical properties.
This study explains why Aloe vera extracts provide protection against photodamage at the cellular level in the UV and visible spectra, leading to its beneficial use as a supplement in protective dermatological formulations. 1
It has been scientifically proven that Aloe vera can be used for all forms of burns, whether due to radiation, thermal, or solar radiation. It has also been shown to have a prophylactic effect if used before, during, and after these skin-damaging events. Simply put, this plant is primarily used for its soothing and cooling effect. Aloe vera not only improves the cellular structure of fibroblasts, but also accelerates the process of collagen production. Aloe vera is a uniquely effective moisturizer and healing agent for the skin. 2
Aloe vera is commonly used to treat skin after sun exposure. It is known for its effectiveness in treating sunburn, inflammation, and redness. Many are unaware that Aloe vera can also be used as a sunscreen for the skin. It can protect the skin by blocking 20% of sun exposure, as demonstrated in this report, which describes for the first time the UV opacity potential of aloe vera gel. Variations in UV opacity potential between germplasms may be due to the presence of different degrees of bioactive components present in Aloe vera gel. 3
References:
1. Rodrigues D, Viotto AC, Checchia R, Gomide A, Severino D, Itri R, Baptista MS, Martins WK. Mechanism of Aloe Vera extract protection against UVA: shelter of lysosomal membrane avoids photodamage. Photochem Photobiol Sci. 2016 Mar;15(3):334-50. doi:10.1039/c5pp00409h. Epub 2016 Jan 27. PMID: 26815913.
2. Korać RR, Khambholja KM. Potential of herbs in skin protection from ultraviolet radiation. Pharmacogn Rev. 2011 Jul;5(10):164-73. doi:10.4103/0973-7847.91114. PMID: 22279374; PMCID: PMC3263051.
3. Shyam Kumar Masakapalli, Prasanta Kumar Datta, Snehasish Dutta Gupta. In vitro evaluation of UV opacity potential of Aloe vera L. gel from different germplasms. Journal of Natural Medicines 63(2):195-9 December 2008. DOI:10.1007/s11418-008-0299-z.
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