Aloe, a Potential Ingredient for Cosmeceuticals

LAS VEGAS—Ken Jones, chief science officer, Aloecorp, revealed clinical data at the SupplySide West show in early November that indicated Aloe vera, known for its wound healing properties, also delivers moisturizing benefits to the skin. “Aloe has been used for quite some time in moisturizing creams because people feel the effects,” Jones said. “But, we now have a study that provides insights into the mechanism by which Aloecorp’s aloe works as a moisturizer.”

According to the study, published in Skin Research and Technology (2006;12:241-246), a single application of .25 percent or .50 percent freeze-dried Aloe vera extract increased the water content of the stratum corneum. After a 2-week period, formulations with .10 percent, .25 percent and .50 percent had the same effect, showing an improvement in skin hydration as well.

Aloe can be used topically or internally, making it an ideal candidate for two-part topical and nutritional beauty regimes. “Studies show that orally-ingested aloe stimulates collagen synthesis and induces production of the body’s own antioxidants,” Jones added.