Aloe vera for burns: uses and properties

Prolonged and unprotected exposure to the sun carries risks. Some can be treated with aloe vera on burns; others require specialised medical attention. The same applies to burns caused by other agents.

Burns are classified according to their severity. First-degree burns are the least severe because only the outer layer of the skin is affected. Second-degree burns, which cause blistering, damage the deeper layers of the skin.

Third-degree burns affect this organ in its entirety, with their damaging effects going from the outermost to the deepest layer. Finally, fourth-degree burns can also cause damage to bones and joints.

First and second-degree burns can be treated at home if they are less than eight centimetres in diameter. However, it never hurts to consult a specialist and check for infection if you notice a worsening appearance or symptoms. Larger burns and third and fourth-degree burns require immediate medical attention.

Minor burns usually heal within a week or two and are unlikely to leave a scar. In any case, it is important to treat the burn to prevent infection, speed healing and reduce pain. Aloe vera is a natural, traditional and effective solution for healing burns and soothing pain, not only when they occur as a result of unprotected sun exposure but also when they are caused by other agents.

How to use aloe vera for burns?

The first step for anyone suffering from a burn, especially in cases where it is not caused by the sun, is to run cold water over the area for 20 minutes. Some of the pain and swelling of the burned area can be reduced by using a cold compress or cold cloth, which should be applied to the burn at 5-15 minute intervals.

It is important to ensure the compress is not too cold, as this could irritate the burn.

The next step is to prepare the aloe vera for application.

Preparation

Aloe vera can then be applied to the burns. Applying it to first and second-degree burns will help speed healing by reducing inflammation, promoting circulation and inhibiting bacterial growth.

Apply a thin layer to the affected area gently and without rubbing.

The entire burned area should be covered by this protective film, which will also help to keep the area moisturised.

Application time

Aloe vera on burns does not need to be removed. As it is a natural product, the skin absorbs it at the rate it needs. Its anti-inflammatory and cooling effect helps to reduce the pain of the injury. It is important to pay attention to the area to see when a new application is needed.

It is important to remember that it is essential that the skin does not become dehydrated or infected. Fortunately, aloe vera penetrates the outermost layer of the skin (epidermis) in fewer seconds than water.

Type of burns for which it works

A study on patients with partial-thickness burn wounds demonstrated the efficacy of treating them with aloe vera. Some patients covered the burns with aloe vera gel, while others only had a layer of petroleum jelly applied.

The study results reveal that the wound treated with aloe vera gel healed faster than the area covered with petroleum jelly. The mean healing time in the aloe gel area was 11.89 days, and 18.19 days for the petroleum jelly-treated wound. Histological study showed early epithelialisation in the aloe vera gel-treated area.

Aloe vera also works well on second-degree burns, as this thesis published at the National Biotechnology Centre and this report from the Thai Medical Association argues.

Anyone suffering from a more severe burn or when aloe vera does not work should consider seeking medical supervision. Specialised care is also needed when a minor burn shows signs of infection.

What are the properties of aloe vera?

Properties and benefits of this plant in topical use

Aloe vera contains certain anti-inflammatory compounds, has beta-carotene, polysaccharides, vitamins A, E and C, enzymes and antioxidants, and may act as an antibacterial agent.

It is effective on burns and helps treat dehydration of ageing skin and problems characteristic of acne.

Aloe is applied to healthy skin, feels juicier, more elastic and healthier, less tight and more vital. Expression lines and blemishes are reduced, the skin becomes more even as pores are refined and wound healing is enhanced.

Aloe vera is a natural antiseptic that effectively protects against bacteria, dirt and excess sebum while accelerating new cell growth and acting as an astringent, minimising pore size.

Properties when incorporated into the diet

Some people do not hesitate to use this plant beyond its topical application. They know about the properties of aloe vera against burns, but they also know that it can promote collagen production if it is included in the form of supplements in the diet.

When taken orally, the advantage is that its beneficial effects can be added to those of other natural products, such as silica, which helps fight free radicals and prevents oxidation, ensuring a significant supply of moisture to the skin.

Aloe Vera Skin Care Routine

Remember that the body is nourished by food and topically, so when choosing care products, ensure that the selection always focuses on those containing natural ingredients.

This gives us access to effective combinations, such as rosehip and silica, for a more complete facial routine. Or, if we are talking about skincare for the whole body, a gel with silica, such as Silicium Gel G5; maintains the balance of the largest organ we have, facilitating its hydration and preventing premature ageing.