From aloe vera juice drinks that promise an instant boost, to gels for burns and aloe vera oil for hair, the plant's long been lauded as a multi-tasking marvel. But with whizzy new beauty ingredients making waves everyday, you'd be forgiven for wondering whether this age-old botanical is still the superhero it's cracked up to be.

Here, we reveal just what's behind aloe vera's remarkable powers of hydration, healing and repair and why – as one of the hero ingredients in our Reviver Hydrating Face Mist – it's a seriously smart addition to your skincare routine.

What is aloe vera?

Usually found in tropical climes, there are over 400 different species of aloe plant although the Aloe barbadensis Miller type is the most popular. When referring to aloe vera, we're usually talking about the thick jelly-like juice that comes from the flesh of the cactus-like plant. This powerful elixir is made by crushing up the succulent's leaf and offers a whole medley of uses once extracted, particularly when it comes to skin. Think calming sunburn, quelling irritation, moisturising dry skin and even helping to treat skin conditions like eczema and psoriasis.

Yep, it really is one of nature's very best wonder-workers. 

What are the skincare benefits of aloe vera?

While it's an incredible weapon against a whole host of different skin complaints, it's aloe vera's ability to soothe and heal that really makes it shine. And we're not just talking a temporary 'ahh' feeling.

Scientific studies have proven aloe vera to be effective at retaining skin moisture and healing wounds. So, what's the secret? It's all down to the plant's special makeup – it's positively bursting with amino acids, antioxidants, enzymes, minerals and vitamins that our skin completely adores. Oh, and it's anti-inflammatory and antibacterial, too. Hello super-boosting shot for skin!

You can see why we handpicked aloe to star in our innovative Reviver Hydrating Mist. More than just a mist, this prebiotic blend works on so many levels. In an instant, it cools and comforts skin while the formula gets to work replenishing a healthy biome and strengthening the skin's natural protective barrier. Free from fragrance and essential oils, it can be veiled over the face after cleansing or misted on top of makeup throughout the day for a speedy refresher.

Expect happy, healthy skin that's truly radiant.

Is aloe vera good for acne?

When we think of complexions in need of moisture, dry or dehydrated skin types usually spring to mind. But acne-prone skin is often hugely lacking in moisture, too. Its easily-absorbed non-greasy texture – as well as its ability to heal – makes aloe vera a brilliant choice for oily skins suffering from acne, breakouts or even marks left behind from blemishes. One clinical study found that using aloe vera gel in combination with tretinoin (a potent prescription acne medication) was more effective at treating certain types of acne than using the tretinoin alone.

In our Reviver Hydrating Mist – that's suitable for all skin types – aloe is delivered as part of a lightweight, plant-based hydrating formula that's perfect for replenishing moisture and reviving skin, without a heavy feeling.

How to use aloe vera

Given its remarkable thirst-quenching abilities when used topically on skin, you'd think aloe vera would be the ultimate do-it-all drink, too. While preliminary research suggests it has the potential to help with conditions like diabetes, clinical studies looking into oral aloe vera consumption are limited.

The best way to get your aloe fix? By applying it daily with other hard-working ingredients like the superbly hydrating prebiotic inulin and arginine. It also works brilliantly paired with cranberry fruit extract to amp up those hydration levels even further.

All hail the aloe!

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