Aloe vera gel, an anti-cellulite agent?

Also known as superficial lipodystrophy, cellulite is the result of an abnormal accumulation of fat, water or toxins within the skin, affecting the structure of adipose tissue. The resulting inflammation gives the skin an unsightly, orange-peel-like appearance. Depending on its cause, three types of cellulite : adipose cellulite, caused by excessive fat storage; aqueous cellulite, corresponding to adipose cellulite with water retention; and fibrous cellulite, which is adipose cellulite with fibrotic involvement. Generally harmless, cellulite may sometimes cause pain due to its increased density and the pressure it exerts on nerve endings.

The cellulite, particularly the fibrous form, is extremely challenging to eliminate. Therefore, it is advisable to prevent it by adopting a varied diet and engaging in regular physical exercise.

Certain natural remedies are sometimes cited to combat cellulite, including the aloe vera gel. Extracted from the leaves of Aloe barbadensis, this gel is traditionally used in cosmetics for its soothing and moisturising properties, but its potential efficacy in cellulite management also raises questions.

While direct studies on the effects of aloe vera on cellulite remain limited, certain extracts have demonstrated hypolipidaemic effects, that is, an ability to reduce lipid accumulation and improve lipid metabolism, which could theoretically help limit the fatty deposits involved in cellulite. Several mechanisms have been proposed. The phytosterols present in aloe vera are poorly absorbed in the intestine but can bind to cholesterol and inhibit its absorption, thereby contributing to reduced blood lipid levels. In addition, some anthraquinones such as barbaloin and isobarbaloin are converted in the colon into active metabolites, including aloe-emodin. This molecule notably exhibits laxative properties via inhibition of Na⁺/K⁺-ATPase, reducing water reabsorption, as well as an inhibitory activity against urokinase, an enzyme involved in angiogenesis. These various biological effects could indirectly influence lipid metabolism.

However, although these mechanisms have been observed following ingestion, there is currently no scientific evidence to assert that they occur when gel of aloe vera is applied to the skin.

When applied topically, aloe vera is chiefly recognised for its moisturising power, due to its high polysaccharide content capable of retaining water in the stratum corneum and temporarily reinforcing the barrier function. Better-hydrated, more supple and smoother skin can then visually give the impression of a less pronounced "orange peel" appearance, without however altering the structure of the underlying adipose tissues of the skin.

However, one can envisage an indirect effect linked to massage during application. Utilised as a massage medium due to its viscous texture, aloe vera gel aids mechanical manoeuvres such as the palpate-and-roll technique. This approach aims to mobilise subcutaneous tissue, soften fatty deposits and stimulate blood and lymphatic circulation, potentially contributing to a temporary improvement in the appearance of cellulite.

• ISHIZAKI C. & al. Effects of plant sterols derived from Aloe vera gel on human dermal fibroblasts in vitro and on skin condition in Japanese women. Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology (2014).

• HUSSAIN S. A. & al. Hypoglycemic and hypolipidemic effects of Aloe vera extract preparations: A review. Phytotherapy Research (2015).

• KAMINER M. & al. Insights into the pathophysiology of cellulite: A review. Dermatologic Surgery (2020).

• PUSHPAKUMARI R. & al. Pharmaceutical, nutritional and cosmetic applications of Aloe vera plant. International Journal of Herbal Medicine (2021).

• TASLEEM G. & al. Aloe vera gel effect on skin and pharmacological properties. Scholars International Journal of Anatomy and Physiology (2022).