Olicare Lotion

“Aloe vera soothes sunburns and skin injuries by increasing collagen synthesis and cross-linking. This helps reduce any resulting scar tissue and speeds up wound healing,” says Green. Aloe also contains compounds called aloin and anthraquinones, which have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits that can help alleviate pain and promote healing.

But take heed: Aloe vera should only be applied to mild-to-moderate first- and second-degree burns—more severe burns need to be treated in a medical facility, says Green.

Since aloe vera contains humectants (substances that attract water from the air or from deeper in the skin), it’s thought to be especially beneficial for dry skin types. “Aloe specifically contains mucopolysaccharides, which bind moisture into the skin,” says Green. “It also has cohesive effects by sticking together flaking epidermal skin cells, resulting in softer skin and improved skin integrity.”

Related: The Real Benefits of Aloe for Hair, According to Experts

There are two compounds in aloe that may fade dark spots and stretch marks: aloesin and aloin, says Green. In one study, aloesin was applied four times per day for 15 days and was found to be effective in treating UV-induced and post-acne hyperpigmentation. Another study found aloin destroyed melanin cells (an overproduction of which causes dark spots to form) in pigmented cells by blocking activity of tyrosinase, an enzyme responsible for melanin production.

Aloe vera contains naturally occurring salicylic acid, urea nitrogen, cinnamic acid, phenols and sulfur—all of which inhibit the growth of fungi, bacteria and viruses. “It also has anti-inflammatory capabilities, which suppresses P. acnes, the bacteria that causes acne,” says Green. “Salicylic acid is currently one of the best ways to prevent acne, since it sheds dead cells from the outer layer of the skin and decreases redness and inflammation,” she adds.

Flare-ups of psoriasis—an inflammatory condition that causes red, itchy and scaly patches—may be better managed with aloe vera in the mix, thanks to its anti-inflammatory properties. Ditto eczema, a skin condition that causes your skin to become red and itchy and more prone to fungal and bacterial infections: “Aloe has antiseptic, antibacterial, anti-fungal and anti-inflammatory properties that may soothe eczema by hydrating and protecting it from contaminants,” says Green.

Because aloe vera contains vitamins C and E, it stands to reason it may help prevent the formation of free radicals, which are the molecules that cause cell damage. Meanwhile, the salicylic acid it contains acts as a gentle exfoliant—and once those pesky dead skin cells are out of the way, your other skin-care products might better penetrate the surface and do their thing more effectively as a result.