Raw leaf aloe vera gel vs store-bought: Which is better for Indian skin?

Aloe vera gel has always been a staple in Indian skincare for decades, mostly passed down through generations via home remedies and is now available in bottles by almost every beauty brand. But have you ever wondered if applying fresh aloe vera is better than the store-bought one? Let’s break it down.

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Fresh aloe vera extracted from the leaf is potent, unprocessed, and absolutely pure. It comes with caveats and contains natural enzymes and antioxidants, which help calm sun exposure, tanning, inflammation, and post-acne redness as well.

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Raw aloe vera comes with aloin, which is a yellow latex. This can irritate sensitive or acne-prone skin. So, if you’re applying raw aloe vera, then make sure to opt for proper cleaning and soaking before use. But make sure to use a fresh batch of aloe vera, as it spoils quickly and catches bacteria if not stored correctly.

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Store-bought aloe vera gels are stabilised, formulated, and easy to use. It comes with a long shelf life and is alcohol-free and dermatologically tested, with combinations of niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, and glycerin, which come with barrier support.

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Some store-bought products may contain artificial colour, fragrance, and alcohol as well. If you see any bottle that has the label ‘Aloe-based’, then it does not always mean a high aloe vera percentage, so do not get fooled.

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Raw aloe vera gel will obviously have the highest purity factor, whereas the store-bought one will carry a formulation. The shelf life of raw aloe vera is usually very short, but the bottle can be used for months. Lastly, if your bottled aloe vera has low levels of alcohol or is alcohol-free, then the risk of irritation will be low. On the other hand, if the natural one is not prepared properly, then the risk of irritation can be high.

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If you have issues with clogged pores or irritated acne skin, then raw aloe vera is perfect for you until you remove the aloin completely. But the store-bought gels are often formulated for acne and contain anti-inflammatory ingredients.

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Raw aloe vera gel works perfectly on non-sensitising skin. It is perfect for occasions and should be washed, soaked, and then extracted for use on the face and scalp. Store-bought gel should always have aloe vera listed as the first ingredient. It shouldn’t contain alcohol, should be fragrance-free, and should be either clear or slightly translucent, but not neon green.

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For everyday skincare, store-bought aloe vera gel is better, specifically if you have acne-prone, pigmented, or sensitive skin. But, if you wish to create a facial paste or use it for occasional soothing, then raw aloe vera gel is a safer choice.