Aloe vera gel is the gel from the aloe vera plant. It is one of the most effective ingredients for calming and rehydrating sunburnt skin, as it penetrates 7 layers deep in the skin vs. 2 layers with water-based solutions.


It rapidly remoisturizes sunburnt skin using a naturally occurring polymer called lignin, which carries minerals and vitamins deep into the skin, making this plant one of the most popular treatments for after-sun care. 


What is aloe vera, and what are the other benefits? Learn more in this article 


 


What Is Aloe Vera Gel?


Aloe vera gel comes from the inner flesh of the aloe vera plant’s leaves. This gel is naturally rich in water, vitamins, minerals, and plant compounds that support skin hydration and comfort. Given the lignin in the plant, this polymer acts as a carrier, infusing sunburnt skin with many naturally occurring vitamins, minerals, and water.


In skincare, aloe vera gel is valued because it:




  1. Absorbs quickly


  2. Feels cooling on contact


  3. Works well for sensitive or stressed skin



Not all aloe products are created equal. High-quality formulas prioritize aloe as a primary ingredient rather than diluting it with fillers or heavy fragrances.


How Aloe Vera Gel Works on Sun-Exposed Skin

Sun exposure typically leaves skin dehydrated, tight, and visibly red. Aloe vera gel helps counter these effects in a few important ways:




  1. Delivers rapid hydration: Aloe’s high water content replenishes moisture lost from heat and UV exposure.



  2. Cools and calms: The gel provides an immediate cooling sensation that helps reduce discomfort.


  3. Supports the skin barrier: Aloe helps skin maintain balance while it recovers from environmental stress.



Because it’s lightweight, aloe vera gel won’t trap heat on the skin—an important detail after long sun exposure.


Benefits of Aloe Vera Gel

Aloe vera gel is popular for a reason. Its benefits are practical, proven, and versatile.


Key benefits include:



  1. Soothes redness and irritation


  2. Hydrates without heaviness



  3. Helps skin feel comfortable after sun exposure



  4. Absorbs quickly with no sticky residue



  5. Suitable for both face and body



These benefits make aloe vera gel especially effective in warm-weather skincare routines.


Why Aloe Vera Gel Is a Staple in After-Sun Products

After sun exposure, skin doesn’t need heavy creams or occlusive oils. It needs water-based hydration. The same way a human needs water to remain alive, your skin is a living and breathing organ needing water and moisture.


Aloe vera gel fits this need perfectly because it:




  1. Restores moisture without clogging pores



  2. Feels refreshing because of the lignin in the plant



  3. Layers easily with other skincare products



This is why aloe vera gel is the foundation of many modern after-sun products, especially those designed for frequent outdoor use.


Aloe Vera Gel in Project Reef After-Sun Care

Project Reef takes a streamlined, purpose-driven approach to skincare. Aloe vera gel plays a central role in their after-sun products because it aligns with three priorities:




  1. Effective skin recovery after sun exposure



  2. Lightweight, no-fuss formulas that work in warm climates



  3. Ocean-conscious ingredient choices



By focusing on aloe vera gel as a hero ingredient, Project Reef creates after-sun products that support skin without unnecessary additives—making them practical for beach days, travel, and everyday sun exposure.


How to Use Aloe Vera Gel After Sun Exposure

Using aloe vera gel correctly helps maximize its benefits.


Best practices:




  1. Clean: Apply to clean, dry skin after sun exposure




  2. Apply: Use a generous layer on areas that feel warm or tight




  3. Absorption: Let the gel absorb fully before adding other products




  4. Reapply: Reapply as needed, especially after showering




Aloe vera gel can be used on both the face and body, making it easy to keep one product on hand for full coverage.


Key Takeaways


  1. Aloe vera gel is one of the most effective after-sun skincare ingredients available.



  2. It hydrates, cools, and supports skin recovery without heaviness.



  3. Aloe vera gel works for both face and body, making it highly versatile.



  4. Project Reef uses aloe vera gel to create practical, reef-conscious after-sun products designed for real outdoor use.



If you spend time in the sun, keeping aloe vera gel in your routine is essential.


Explore Project Reef’s after-sun products to experience aloe vera gel in a formula designed for both your skin and the ocean.