Aloe vera has a long history of being used for medicinal purposes, dating back to ancient Egypt it is perhaps one of the most widely used herbal remedies for topical skin conditions. This is because the gel-like components of the plant are known to heal the skin from a variety of minor ailments.
In fact, you might have even used aloe in the past for sunburn, minor cuts, or small abrasions. The insides of an aloe plant’s leaves are the most potent form of aloe vera gel. However, not everyone has an aloe plant hanging around their house. In such cases, OTC products work just as well. For the best results, look for a gel that lists aloe vera as its main ingredient.
For skin ailments, aloe vera extracts don’t work as well as gel. This is because the gel itself has moisturizing elements to protect and heal the skin.
Does Organic Aloe Vera Gel Expire?
Yes, organic and non-organic aloe vera gel does expire. The expiration date is the final day that the manufacturer guarantees the full potency and safety of a product. In the late 1970s, the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) mandated that all medical products contain an expiration date. Expiration dates for medicines are often marked “EXP” and are printed on the label or stamped onto the product.
Can I use expired aloe vera gel on my face?
Despite its healing powers, you may be wondering if it’s safe to use an expired aloe vera gel on your face or other parts of your body. After the expiration date, aloe vera gel should not be used because it may be spoiled, damaged, ineffective, or risky due to a change in chemical composition or a decrease in strength.
According to the FDA, there are no U.S. laws or regulations that require cosmetics to have specific shelf lives or have expiration dates on their labels. However, manufacturers are responsible for making sure their products are safe. FDA considers determining a product’s shelf life to be part of the manufacturer’s responsibility.
Not all “personal care products” are regulated as cosmetics. Some, such as sunscreen products and acne treatments, are drugs under the law. Some, such as makeup and moisturizers that are also sunscreens, with “SPF” labeling, are regulated as both cosmetics and drugs.
What side effects can I expect from an unexpired aloe vera gel?
Knowing the side effects of an unexpired aloe vera gel can be useful in identifying the side effects that result from using an expired aloe vera gel.
While considered safe in topical form when used as directed, the Food and Drug Administration doesn’t regulate aloe vera products. This means that it’s up to you, the consumer, to use aloe vera safely and to report any adverse skin reactions to your doctor.
You may also consider steering clear of aloe vera if you have a severe burn or other significant wounds. In fact, there’s even some evidence that aloe may decrease your skin’s natural ability to heal from deep wounds related to surgery.
Some users may experience itching or slight burning as the aloe vera goes to work in your skin. However, if you experience a rash or hives, you could have a sensitivity to the gel and should stop using it immediately.
Do not use aloe vera gel on an infected skin. While the gel has microbial properties, its protective layer can disrupt the healing process and make an infection worse.
