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Aloe Vera for Acne

illustration of aloe vera
Aloe barbadensis

There are hundreds of varieties of aloe that grow all over the world. Most have medicinal properties. However, it is aloe barbadensis that is known as aloe vera, the species with the most value as a natural remedy. Aloe arborescens, the fast growing aloe with spiraling leaves, is more common as a houseplant and wild succulent in North America and its gel has healing properties as well but it is less powerful than aloe barbadensis.

For pictures of the different species, follow these links:

Aloe vera as an acne remedy

The gel of the aloe vera plant has a cooling, soothing effect on acne sores. It is also a natural antibiotic.


  • Cut a slit down the middle and allow the yellow latex to drain. The latex has other uses (as a purgative) but is not good for irritated skin and might cause inflammation in some people.
  • Use a serrated knife to remove the thick skin. Begin by cutting off the jagged edges. This will take some practice but after a few tries you will be able to remove the skin and end up with a nice thick piece of gel.
  • Use the flat side of a knife or a spoon to remove the gluey latex from the gel.

Why It Works

Aloe vera gel is good for acne for two main reasons. First, it immediately soothes the skin and is a mild anti-inflammatory. Secondly, aloe vera is a natural antibiotic - it cleans the skin and kills bacteria.


As mentioned above, the latex of aloe barbadensis, a thin layer between the leaf and the gel, is a potential skin irritant.

More Remedies

I just cut off an Aloe Vera

I just cut off an Aloe Vera leaf off my plant, slit it down the middle and let the Yellow liquid run out. I then went to the mirror and placed the leaf on my face and applied all of the crystal clear liquid on my face. It burned like heck but we will see what this does. I don't know how often I should do this but I will try this for a few days to see what happens. I will let you know on the outcome. P.S. I'm 62 years old and just got a very bad case of this last week. I don't know what brought this on but it had to be something......



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