The Attraction to Aloe Vera
Aloe Vera has long been a staple in skincare, recognized for its soothing and hydrating properties. When I saw Nature Republic’s Aloe Vera Gel touted as a multi-purpose, all-in-one healer, I was genuinely excited to incorporate it into my skincare regimen. The product comes with the promise of natural aloe vera from Jeju Island, which further piqued my interest.
About The product:
This soothing gel contains California CCDF certified organic Aloe Vera and mild to skin. Good for moisturizing face, arms, legs and hair. Instant moisturizing without feeling sticky.
I’ve already used 2 more tub before this one. Had positive vibe. But I don’t know if they changed the formula or not, my experience with my new tub was bad.
Initial Impressions: Intriguing Packaging
The Nature Republic Aloe Vera Gel arrives in a sturdy green tub that screams ‘freshness’ at first glance. Unscrewing the lid, the gel looked smooth and smelled relatively mild—a good sign, I thought.
Ingredients:
Upon examining the ingredient list, it seemed simple and straightforward, with aloe vera extract front and center. However, there were also additional preservatives and fragrances, which I later realized could be a point of concern.
Aqua, Dipropylene Glycol, Butylene Glycol, Alcohol, Glycerin, 1,2-Hexanediol, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Betaine, Calendula Officinalis Flower Extract, Carbomer, Disodium EDTA, Glyceryl Polyacrylate, Melissa Officinalis Leaf Extract, Mentha Viridis Extract, Parfum, Peg-60, Hydrogenated Castor Oil, Polyglutamic Acid, Propylene Glycol, Sodium Hyaluronate, Triethanolamine, Phenoxyethanol, Butylphenyl Methylpropional, Linalool (*as SC.Aloaceretion Filtrate P.)
Ease of Application: Like a Dream
The texture was dreamy; lightweight, and cooling upon contact. I generously applied the gel to my face, reveling in the immediate soothing sensation. Ah, relief at last—or so I thought.
Uh-oh, Something’s Not Right
About 10 minutes or so, my skin began to tingle in an unsettling way. It wasn’t the ‘something’s-working’ tingle but more of a ‘something’s-off’ sensation. I glanced in the mirror and was taken aback by what I saw: patches of redness across my cheeks and the beginnings of a rash. Might be the cause of alcohol in the ingredient.
Immediate Measures: Code Red
I knew I had to act fast. I rinsed off any residual gel and applied a hydrocortisone cream.
“Not for Everyone“
My dermatologist explained that even seemingly ‘harmless’ ingredients like aloe vera can cause reactions due to added fragrances, preservatives, or just the sheer concentration of the plant extract itself. She prescribed an antihistamine and a medicated cream.
This experience was a hard pill to swallow, teaching me that natural doesn’t always mean better or safer. It’s crucial to approach any new skincare product with caution and preferably after a patch test, even if it contains an ingredient as universally praised as aloe vera.
I’m now using it in my hair. Not on skin. Keeps my hair soft though.
To Use or Not to Use: Proceed with Caution
If your skin is less sensitive than mine, this product could still be a hit for you. However, if you have a tendency toward reactive skin, approach with caution.
Final Thoughts:
I’m not going to use it on my skin anymore. I will continue using it in my hair routine until it’s empty. Not going to waste my money. For everyone else, if you’re curious, do a patch test first.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Could the reaction be due to a specific skin type?
- Possibly. My skin is sensitive, which might have contributed to the adverse reaction.
- What steps did you take after the reaction?
- I discontinued use immediately and consulted a dermatologist for appropriate treatment.
- Would you recommend this product?
- I’d exercise caution. If you decide to try it, perhaps a patch test would be advisable.
- Was the reaction severe?
- It was moderate, requiring medical intervention but not hospitalization.
- Would you consider trying it again?
- Given my experience, I’d have to pass
