North Carolina Cosmetic Arts Practice Exam

What is a common benefit of using aloe vera in skin care?

1. It provides a cooling effect and reduces redness

2. It enhances skin firmness

3. It increases pigmentation

4. It contains SPF properties

The correct answer is: It provides a cooling effect and reduces redness

Aloe vera is widely recognized in skin care for its soothing properties, which is why it is often highlighted for providing a cooling effect and reducing redness. The gel from the aloe vera plant is rich in antioxidants and has anti-inflammatory properties that help calm irritated skin, making it particularly beneficial for sunburns, abrasions, and other types of minor skin irritation. This cooling sensation can help alleviate discomfort and promote healing. While enhancing skin firmness and increasing pigmentation could be attributed to certain other ingredients or treatments, they are not characteristic benefits of aloe vera. Moreover, while aloe vera does offer some level of natural sun protection, it is not typically considered a substitute for sunscreen with specific SPF properties. Thus, the primary and most notable benefit of aloe vera in skin care aligns with its ability to cool and soothe the skin, addressing redness effectively.