Aloe vera, a succulent plant with leaves that retain water in gel form, is a powerhouse of nutrients and active ingredients that have proven benefits for the skin and hair. For centuries, this all-weather plant has been in use as a healing plant in different cultures including Indians, Egyptians, Persians, and Chinese. Now, we find the use of aloe vera gel for hair in the modern haircare industry.
Aloe vera is now regarded as a therapeutic plant that not only soothes external cuts, injuries, and burns but also acts as a supplement for great-looking hair. Extensive studies indicate that aloe vera benefits the hair and scalp with its anti-inflammatory properties and antioxidants in the same way it nourishes our skin.
You can try using aloe vera gel for haircare every day. It is safe, gentle, and natural, and contains vitamins and antioxidants. The best thing is that this translucent gel has no known side effects either. If you want to know more about its amazing benefits for haircare, here’s an article to help you with it.
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How aloe gel nourishes and heals hair
Most of us are aware of aloe’s incredible benefits for the skin. But did you know that it is also a great source of nutrition for hair? The best part about using aloe vera gel for hair care routines is that it is completely natural, safe, and without known side effects. In addition, this gel-based healing agent is not manufactured but is sourced naturally from a plant!
Here are some of the benefits of aloe vera for hair that cannot be overlooked.
- Moisturizes and hydrates scalp
Aloe vera leaves act as a humectant because they contain a natural gel with hydrating properties. Our scalp gets drier and dirtier with regular exposure to the sun and dirt during outdoor activities. So, like our skin, our scalp also becomes dehydrated and flaky during winter. Applying aloe to the scalp keeps it hydrated and nourished.
- Helps control dandruff
Dandruff is, essentially, a skin disorder. It can be caused due to several factors and can differ from person to person in severity. Several reasons can contribute to its spread, including a lack of personal hygiene, excessive perspiration, and exposure to polluted spaces, dirt, and dust.
Experts also agree that factors like inadequate nutrition and bad weather conditions can also trigger the occurrence of dandruff on our scalp. This is where using aloe vera gel helps a great deal. Its antibacterial properties and natural hydration gently reduce inflammation and white flakes.
- Soothes an itchy scalp
Using aloe vera gel for hair care provides an anti-inflammatory and antibacterial cover for your scalp. The vitamin E and other active ingredients help heal a dry and itchy scalp. Regular application of aloe vera eliminates dehydration and helps grow healthy hair.
- Helps in repairing hair follicles
Aloe vera gel is rich in vitamins and folic acid. Along with Vitamin E, which has a soothing and nourishing effect on the skin and scalp, vitamins A and C in the gel boost cell growth. Vitamin B12 also helps repair hair follicles and prevents hair loss when used regularly.
- Treats oily hair and scalp breakouts
Oily hair, like oily skin, can lead to several ailments if not addressed in time. Excess oil attracts grime and pollutants and can become a breeding ground for bacteria and germs. In addition, acne breakouts sometimes spread across the scalp, making it very difficult to clean the hair. Applying aloe vera gel to the scalp can control the oil glands and soothe acne on the scalp.
How to apply aloe vera gel to hair and scalp?
Follow these three simple steps to apply aloe vera gel to your hair. First, mix a few drops of cold-pressed castor oil or lime juice into the gel to lock in the hydration or treat oily hair, respectively.
- Apply a generous amount of the gel to the scalp and gently massage till the wetness is reduced and the gel has been absorbed.
- Leave it for a minimum of 30 minutes. This will allow the active ingredients in aloe vera to penetrate your scalp and hydrate the roots of your hair.
- Rinse off the gel first with water. Then wash it off with a mild shampoo that gently works through your hair and scalp.
Is there a chemical-free aloe vera gel on the market?
Yes. You may opt for Mamaearth’s Aloe Vera Gel for Skin and Hair is one of the safest and best aloe gels available over the counter. It comes with the added benefits of glycerin which locks in moisture and keeps the hair intensely hydrated for a longer period.
In addition, it is great for healing scalp inflammation and dry and frizzy hair. Like all Mamaearth products, this aloe vera gel for hair is Made Safe certified and has zero harmful chemicals. Therefore, it is safe for use on all skin types.
Pair this gel with the best oil for haircare regimens
The best oil for hair should gently clean the scalp, boost hair growth, and prevent hair loss. There is no replacement for a good oil for everyday hair care. However, choosing one that suits your hair and skin type is highly recommended. Mamaearth offers a wide selection of natural hair oils loaded with herbs and active ingredients. You may explore some of its bestselling oils for hair such as the Bhringraj Hair Oil with Amla and Onion Hair Oil with Redensyl. Its Henna Hair Oil is also one of the best oils to address premature graying!
Always remember, when it comes to skin and hair care, you should choose a product from a plant over anything made in a plant! Whether you are looking for the best oil for hair or a good aloe vera gel for hair, look for a Made-Safe certificate. Check if there are any harmful chemicals, parabens, or silicones in it. These will undo all the good effects of aloe and might even aggravate your hair and scalp condition. Choose what you apply to your skin and scalp wisely.