Aloe vera contains antibacterial and antifungal compounds and may support wound healing. However, more research is needed to determine its safety and effectiveness for eczema.

There’s no standard treatment for eczema or atopic dermatitis, but a variety of prescription, over-the-counter (OTC), and natural treatments can help. People have used aloe vera for centuries to soothe irritated skin. It comes from the clear gel contained in aloe leaves.

Aloe vera’s anti-inflammatory properties make it a popular ingredient in OTC skin care products. But can its soothing properties help with eczema? Read on to find out.

There aren’t many studies evaluating the use of aloe vera for eczema.

However, research suggests that aloe vera may support:

Aloe vera contains many compounds that may have beneficial effects when applied to the skin. According to a 2023 review of research, possible benefits include:

  • reducing inflammation
  • reducing bacteria and fungi on the skin
  • improving moisture retention
  • supporting wound healing
  • promoting collagen production

These benefits may be useful for people with eczema, as irritated skin is more prone to infection.

Aloe vera is a common ingredient in OTC skin care products, and topical use of aloe vera gel is generally safe for many people.

Many people find that aloe vera helps with other skin conditions, including:

Eczema produces symptoms similar to many of these conditions, so aloe vera may help with eczema as well.

To use aloe vera for eczema, help your skin absorb as much as possible by cleaning the area first with mild soap and cool water.

Then, liberally apply aloe vera gel to the affected area. Keep in mind that the gel can be sticky at first. Allow it to dry before getting dressed.

You can find aloe vera gel in most drug stores or online. When comparing products, try to look for one that contains the highest concentration of pure aloe vera. You can also check that aloe vera is the first ingredient.

You may want to avoid gels containing added fragrance or alcohol. Both can cause additional irritation.

You can also make your own aloe vera gel by splitting open an aloe vera leaf and scooping out the gel.

Aloe vera is generally safe, but it can cause mild burning and itching in some people. Some people are allergic to aloe vera. So, if you want to try using aloe vera, apply some to a small area first as a patch test.

Watch your skin for any signs of irritation or an allergic reaction over the next 24 hours. If you don’t notice any burning or itching, you can apply it to a larger area.

Stop using aloe vera and call your doctor if you think your eczema is infected. Symptoms of infected eczema include:

  • pus
  • increased inflammation
  • pain
  • increased redness
  • hot to the touch

Although aloe vera is also generally safe for use in children, you might want to check with a pediatrician first.

You should also talk with a doctor first before taking oral forms of aloe, such as aloe latex. These oral forms are meant to treat gastrointestinal conditions, not skin conditions. Never give oral aloe vera to children.

Is aloe vera good for eczema?

There aren’t many studies on whether aloe vera helps relieve eczema. However, it does have anti-inflammatory and wound-healing properties that may be beneficial for people with eczema.

What is the fastest way to heal eczema?

Treating eczema usually involves keeping the skin hydrated and applying anti-inflammatory medications for flare-ups.

Does aloe vera stop itchy skin?

Aloe vera may help wounds heal quicker, but it does not contain any compounds that specifically target itchiness.

How do you use aloe vera for irritated skin?

You can apply aloe vera gel after gently cleansing the irritated skin. You may want to wait for it to absorb and dry before getting dressed.

It’s not clear whether aloe vera treats eczema, but anecdotal evidence and research about its healing properties suggest that it may provide relief.

There’s also no evidence that it makes eczema worse, so it’s worth a try if you’re interested in it.

Do a patch test first to make sure you don’t have any kind of reaction. You should still avoid any known eczema triggers while using aloe vera.