The best aloe vera gels are multi-purpose, used on skin, hair, or as a cosmeceutical component. They should also be sourced from the correct part of the plant. Pure aloe vera gel, harvested from the center of the leaf, is cooling, hydrating, and feels so soothing when applied to burned, irritated, or itching skin. It can be time-consuming to search for the right aloe vera gel, so we did it for you—check out our favorites below, and stop that sunburn from peeling.
Seven Minerals organic 100-percent pure aloe vera gel
No sticky feel, 100-percent pure
Non-sticky aloe vera gel can be hard to find if you're picky about your skincare's texture and feel. That's where Seven Minerals comes in, with an easily dispensed, 100-percent pure aloe vera gel that's totally free from common irritants (xanthan, carrageenan, and carbomers) that soaks into your skin residue-free. Acne, burns, eczema, and other skin sensitivities are soothed instantly upon application. An unexpected bonus is its two-year shelf life—this will be more useful for those ordering it in bulk.
Nature Republic aloe vera gel 2-Pack
Double the gel, same price
Certified organic, 92-percent pure, and conveniently packaged in easy-open tubs, Nature Republic's paraben-free aloe vera gel has added hyaluronic acid for deep and lasting hydration. Calendula is also added for its soothing effects, and spearmint creates a cooling sensation upon contact. If you're skincare-savvy and are looking to rebuild your acid mantle and moisture barrier, steer clear of this particular gel. It contains alcohol that's not specified as being "fatty" alcohol (which would be less drying and damaging to your skin).
PURA D'OR organic aloe vera gel, lavender
Natural nourishment
Pura D'Or's hypoallergenic, organic aloe vera gel is conveniently packaged in a pump bottle for tidy dispensing. This aloe gel is offered in four naturally-derived scents, ideal for those sensitive to artificial fragrances: lavender, jasmine, bergamot lime, and lemongrass. Added vitamin E helps lock in moisture for hydrated skin that lasts without feeling sticky after application.
NaturSense organic aloe vera gel
Smooth consistency
Cold-pressing and repeat filtering make a marked difference in texture, as shown by NaturSense's cruelty-free 99.75-percent organic aloe vera gel. Its fluid consistency is easily incorporated into DIY hand sanitizer recipes. (Tip: make them in your blender!) Its smooth feel makes it perfect for use as a hair conditioner or even a styling gel. All added ingredients in this gel are naturally derived, including vitamin C as a preservative.
Sun Bum Cool Down aloe vera sun gel
No more flaky sunburns
One of the worst things about a bad sunburn is the peeling, flaking, and sting as your skin cells regenerate. Peel no more—Sun Bum's reef-friendly Cool Down aloe vera gel is non-greasy and lightweight on even the most tender skin. It provides much-needed relief, and best of all, it helps prevent peeling. If you would rather use a spray or lotion for your after-sun care, SunBum's got you covered: they offer an entire line of Cool Down products.
First Botany 100-percent pure aloe vera gel infused with tea tree oil
Cosmeceutical benefits
While First Botany's gel doesn't have aloe as its sole composition, its additional ingredients are worthy of inclusion. Chamomile soothes smarting burns, tea tree's astringency clears acne, and artemisia acts as a powerful anti-inflammatory for irritated skin. Hyaluronic acid rounds out its quartet of beneficial properties by boosting moisture retention. This particular gel would work well as a facial moisturizer due to its lack of drying alcohol.
Bottom line
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No two aloe vera gels are made alike, but they're all capable of treating multiple issues. Flaky, dry skin and dull hair are a thing of the past when you're using the best gel for your individual needs. Seven Minerals' 100-percent pure aloe vera gel is our best overall, and it deserves that place of honor. It's the purest on the list, not sticky, and an ideal choice for those with ultra-sensitive skin.
If you're not picky about purity, then SunBum's Cool Down collection is offered in three soothing formulas—and they're all hypoallergenic, anyway. It encourages better skin healing and even makes peeling less likely. Pro tip: you can boost aloe vera's icy sensation by simply storing the gel in your refrigerator; it will feel especially good post-beach trip or hike.