Beware the Label
If the label reads “100 percent gel” it just means the container is pure gel, and not 100 percent pure aloe-vera extract. The label should read “99 percent aloe vera.” At the very least, aloe vera should be the first of the listed ingredients, as ingredients are always listed in descending order of the highest percentage to the least. Other unnecessary, and unwanted, ingredients include:
• Alcohol. This will have a drying effect on the skin, just the opposite of what you are trying to achieve.
• Fragrances. Even scents made from natural or essential oils are often a cause of contact dermatitis.
• Coloring. Aloe-vera extract is naturally clear, not green, which is just added for color and can also be irritating to the skin.
Check the Expiration Date
Gordon says there typically has to be some form of preservative to protect from microbe growth. As a result, the longer the stated shelf is the more preservatives the preparation will typically have.
