'Aloe Vera' My Skin's Saviour...
I am writing this Blog to share a story about a long-held belief of mine, recently overturned in the most unexpected way. It concerns a humble plant: Aloe Vera.
Back in the mid-1990s, shortly after we got the internet at home, I had an encounter with a cosmetic representative. I’ve never been one for much makeup, but she was promoting a new line that featured this new fangled ingredient, Aloe Vera. The introductory pack was at a rock-bottom price, so I gave it a go, selecting my colours.
However, the transaction came with a stark warning that nearly stopped me in my tracks. I was told point-blank that a minority of people are allergic to Aloe Vera and that I should watch for a skin-wide reaction within five days. I didn’t apply the products daily, so the warned reaction arrived on Day Seven. I broke out in large, blotchy red spots all over my face and body (the kit had included bath products, too).
I contacted the representative. When we met face-to-face, she took one look and knew immediately what had happened. I received a full reimbursement, and the kit was taken away. For decades afterwards, I carried the firm belief that I was in that unfortunate 1%—severely allergic to Aloe Vera. I meticulously avoided anything containing it, reading every label with a wary eye.
Now, thirty years later, I was shopping for my regular moisturising shampoo. My usual brand was out of stock, and in the pre-holiday rush, I simply grabbed the next available option. For once, I didn’t read the label.
Miracle upon miracles. I suffer from both psoriasis and eczema, conditions that bring constant itchiness, redness, and lesions. Yet, after using this new shampoo, my skin began to calm. The irritation lessened; the redness faded and wonderfully luscious hair in the process. Puzzled and hopeful, I finally checked the bottle: Garnier Coconut Shampoo, with Aloe Vera as a main ingredient.
I was astounded. A bit of online research revealed that many people who believe they are allergic to Aloe Vera are often reacting to other, harsher ingredients in those products, not the plant itself. For thirty years, I had blamed the wrong culprit.
You can imagine my profound relief and gratitude. Not only am I not allergic to Aloe Vera, but it is actively providing my skin and hair with much-needed comfort. That long-ago reaction was a red herring, a misconception that shaped decades of cautious avoidance.
It’s a humble lesson in revisiting old assumptions. Sometimes, the very thing we fear can turn out to be a source of relief. I am now happily reintroducing this wonderful plant into my life.
With newfound appreciation,
A Grateful Customer
Comments
Post a Comment