Aloe vera

What it is

Aloe vera is a gel or juice from the leaves of the aloe plant (Aloe barbadensis). It contains water, polysaccharides, vitamins and minerals, and is known for a cooling, soothing feel.

Function

Aloe vera functions as a soothing and lightly hydrating ingredient, providing a cooling sensation and mild humectant hydration on the skin.

Properties

Aloe itself is generally gentle and well tolerated. The common concern is the products it is sold in: many aloe gels also contain fragrance, alcohol or colourants that are undesirable on a fresh tattoo.

In tattoo aftercare

Aloe vera appears in a number of botanical aftercare products for its soothing and hydrating feel. Where used, a clean formulation without added fragrance or alcohol is preferable.

Considerations

The aloe is fine for most people; check that the product it is in is free of added fragrance, alcohol and colour.

This is general, factual information about a cosmetic ingredient, not medical advice or a product recommendation. If your skin reacts to anything during healing, stop using it and speak to your artist or a GP.