Widely available for sunburn, 99% aloe vera gel can be used to fill a laceration defect before clipping. It keeps hair and debris out of the wound, and it may aid healing. Aloe vera gel can also be used to moisten a crusty hot spot before clipping. The soothing gel makes clipping the area less painful. Finally, I also use the gel to clean limbs after splint removal.

Dr. Ann M. Hamilton
Bakersfield, Calif.