What happens if aloe vera gel applied on the face irritates the eyes?

Nov 29, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Liu Wenmin
Introduction
In general, applying aloe vera gel to the face may cause eye irritation due to ingredient sensitivity, excessive application, degraded or expired aloe vera gel, contact dermatitis, or periorbital eczema. If discomfort occurs, it is recommended to seek timely medical evaluation and treatment at a reputable hospital. In daily life, choose aloe vera gel from reputable brands and check the expiration date; avoid the sensitive eye area when applying skincare products.

Under normal circumstances, aloe vera gel causing eye irritation when applied to the face may be due to ingredient sensitivity, excessive application, degraded aloe vera gel, contact dermatitis, or periorbital eczema. If discomfort occurs, it is recommended to seek timely medical evaluation and treatment at a正规 hospital. Detailed analysis is as follows:

1. Ingredient Irritation

Aloe vera gel contains active ingredients such as aloin. The skin around the eyes is thin and delicate, making it susceptible to irritation of the conjunctiva when these components diffuse into the area. Immediately rinse residual gel from the eye area with clean water. Switch to a mild, fragrance-free, alcohol-free aloe vera gel, and avoid applying within 1 cm of the eye area.

2. Overuse

Applying too much aloe vera gel can cause it to run into the eye area before being absorbed, leading to ingredient buildup and irritation. Gently blot excess gel with a clean tissue. For future applications, use only a pea-sized amount and spread it evenly, carefully avoiding the area around the eyes.

3. Degraded Aloe Vera Gel

If stored improperly after opening, aloe vera gel may become contaminated with bacteria or undergo oxidative degradation, which can irritate the skin and eyes. Discontinue use immediately and discard the product. Rinse the eye area with saline solution, and follow medical advice to use tobramycin eye drops, erythromycin eye ointment, or levofloxacin eye drops as prescribed.

4. Contact Dermatitis

Allergic reactions to preservatives or plant components in aloe vera gel can trigger skin inflammation that affects the eye area. Stop using the product and follow your doctor’s instructions for treatment with loratadine tablets, mometasone furoate cream, or levocetirizine hydrochloride oral solution. Avoid scratching the skin around the eyes.

5. Periorbital Eczema

Damaged skin barrier around the eyes may worsen eczema symptoms when exposed to aloe vera gel, resulting in eye irritation and itching. Discontinue use of aloe vera gel and follow medical guidance to apply tacrolimus ointment, hydrocortisone butyrate cream, or vitamin E lotion to keep the skin around the eyes moisturized.

In daily life, choose reputable brands of aloe vera gel and check expiration dates; avoid applying skincare products to sensitive areas around the eyes; discontinue use of active skincare products if eye-area irritation occurs; maintain cleanliness around the eyes and avoid frequent rubbing.