Pure Aloe Vera: sunscreen or after-sun? The facts about aloe vera sunscreen

There’s a common misconception in skincare that pure aloe vera gel can act as a shield against the sun’s harsh rays. Many people search for “aloe vera sunscreen,” hoping for a natural, all-in-one solution for sun protection and hydration.

The reality, however, is more nuanced. While aloe vera is highly beneficial for your skin, the crucial question remains: can aloe vera be used as sunscreen? It should never be your first line of defence against UV radiation.

We’re here to set the record straight: learn the true role of aloe vera in sun care and discover the complete solution that offers both reliable protection and therapeutic repair.

Is pure aloe vera a sunscreen? The myth debunked.

Pure aloe vera gel is derived from the leaves of the Aloe barbadensis miller plant and is famed for its soothing properties. Unfortunately, its natural composition does not include the essential filtering ingredients needed to block the sun’s harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation.

Does aloe vera gel work as a sunscreen?

• No UV Block: Pure aloe vera Gel lacks the specific filters (like zinc oxide, titanium dioxide, or chemical filters) necessary to scatter or absorb UVA and UVB rays effectively.
• Minimal Protection: Using pure aloe vera for sunscreen alone leaves your skin fully exposed to potential sun damage, premature ageing, and severe sunburn.

To be clear: is aloe vera a natural sunscreen? No. Never replace a dedicated sun protection product with pure Aloe Vera gel. It is a fantastic moisturiser, but a completely ineffective sunblock.

The crucial difference: aloe vera-based sunscreen

While pure aloe vera is not sunscreen, this doesn’t mean you can’t find sun protection products that contain it.

Effective aloe vera sunscreen formulations combine the soothing, hydrating power of high-quality aloe vera gel with reliable, scientifically approved UV filters. This gives you both broad-spectrum protection and skin conditioning in one product.

This is where ALHYDRAN SPF 30 comes in.

The ideal after-sun: aloe vera for sunburn and hydration

Although it doesn’t prevent sun damage, aloe vera is one of nature’s best ingredients for recovering from sun exposure. It’s a great ingredient in many after-sun products, and for good reason.

Aloe vera helps to:

• Calm and soothe: Provides immediate cooling relief.
• Reduce redness and irritation: Thanks to its anti-inflammatory properties.
• Deeply hydrate: Prevents peeling and flaking after sunburn.
• Support skin recovery: Encourages natural healing of the skin barrier.

Year-round sun protection: not just for summer

It’s a common myth that sunscreen is only necessary during sunny summer days. In fact, UV radiation is present year-round. Even on cloudy, rainy, or snowy days.

Why sun protection matters in fall and winter:

• Up to 80% of UV rays can pass through clouds.
• UV rays reflect off snow, increasing your exposure during winter sports.
• High altitudes mean thinner atmosphere, so skiing and snowboarding elevate your UV risk.

If you’re heading into the ski season or simply spending time outdoors this winter, using a product like ALHYDRAN SPF 30 is crucial. It hydrates and protects without compromising comfort, even in cold or windy weather.

Why ALHYDRAN works better than just Aloe Vera

Many aloe vera creams use reconstituted aloe powder, which is cheaper, less effective and lacks the full benefits of fresh aloe vera. ALHYDRAN uses freshly processed aloe vera gel from Aruba as its main ingredient, not water.

But what makes ALHYDRAN truly unique is its dual-action approach:

• Hydrating ingredients like aloe vera: Attract moisture to the skin.
• Occlusive ingredients like jojoba oil: Form a breathable barrier to lock moisture in.
• This combination prevents trans-epidermal water loss (TEWL), allowing aloe vera to hydrate and support healing more effectively. Especially on sunburned or vulnerable skin.

Additional benefits of ALHYDRAN for sunburned skin:

• Long-lasting hydration
• Fast absorption
• Non-sticky finish

The ALHYDRAN sun care strategy

To cover all stages of sun exposure, protection and recovery, ALHYDRAN offers two essential products:

ALHYDRAN SPF 30

• Before & during sun exposure
• For protection (SPF 30) & hydration

Alhydran cream

• After sun exposure / sunburn
• For recovery & deep hydration

1. Protection and hydration: ALHYDRAN SPF 30

Use before and during sun exposure. This medical moisturising cream includes effective UV filters (SPF 30) and a high concentration of fresh aloe vera gel. It hydrates deeply while protecting the skin from UVA and UVB rays. Ideal for year-round sun exposure.

2. Intense recovery: ALHYDRAN Cream

After exposure, especially if your skin is red, dry or irritated, use ALHYDRAN Cream to:

• Cool and soothe
• Restore skin’s natural healing
• Reduce discomfort and tightness

Important: Avoid re-exposing sunburnt or irritated skin to sunlight. Support skin recovery with dedicated care.

Summary

Pure aloe vera is excellent for after-sun care, but it offers no UV protection.

For complete year-round care:

• Use ALHYDRAN SPF 30 for protection and hydration during sun exposure. Even in autumn, winter, and while skiing.
• Use ALHYDRAN Cream for powerful after-sun or post-windburn recovery.

Give your skin the full-cycle care it deserves, whatever the season.