Aloe vera is popularly known for its skin-healing benefits. It is commonly used for healing burn wounds and skin irritation. But aside from this, there are studies showing how this succulent may also benefit our hair.
According to research, aloe vera could be beneficial for our hair in a variety of ways because of its moisturizing effects, anti-inflammatory action that reduces scalp irritation, enzyme and fatty acid content that may help reduce inflammation, and various nutrient that help nourish and strengthen hair such as vitamins C, E, B-12, folic acid, and choline.
Chaz Dean, WEN Hair + Body Care founder, says:
“Aloe contains proteolytic enzymes that help repair dead skin cells on the scalp. It acts as a great conditioner and leaves your hair smooth and shiny. It also helps promote healthy hair growth, prevents itching on the scalp, reduces dandruff, and condition your hair.”
Below are several ways on how to use aloe vera gel to achieve thick and shiny hair:
Direct Application Of Fresh Aloe Vera Gel To The Scalp
Simply cut fresh aloe vera leaf and collect its gel using a spoon. Rub the gel directly into the scalp and let it sit for an hour. Now, wash the scalp and hair using a mild shampoo. Obtain the best results by repeating this process 2-3 times a week. Aloe vera gel can also be blended with olive or coconut oil before applying to the scalp.
Aloe Vera and Hibiscus
Hibiscus reduce dandruff and stimulate hair growth. When combined with aloe vera gel, it helps boost hair growth while maintaining hair texture.
Combine 2 tbsp of hibiscus flower paste and 1 cup aloe vera gel in a bowl until a smooth mixture is obtained. Massage this mixture into the scalp and then leave it on for about half an hour. Rinse the hair with a mild shampoo and finish with conditioner. Do this once a week.
Aloe Vera and Castor Oil
While the aloe gel moisturizes the hair, castor oil has been shown to reduce hair damage and split ends, hair loss, and dandruff and condition the hair. The combination of these two will enhance hair luster, stimulate hair growth, nourish the hair, and prevent breakage and split ends.
Just mix one cup of aloe vera gel with two tablespoons of castor oil and then apply this mixture on the hair from roots to tips. Leave it overnight and wash it off the next morning. It is recommended to apply this mask at least once a week to achieve desired results.
Aloe Vera and Onion
Onion juice is perfect for hair growth as it stimulates the scalp and the dormant follicles on it and also helps curb hair fall and promote hair regrowth.
For this hair mask, we only need to blend 3-4 large onions to a puree in a blender and then use a cheesecloth to extract the juice. Add 1 tbsp of aloe vera gel to the juice and mix well. Use the mixture in massaging the scalp and leave it on for about an hour.
Wash the hair with a mild shampoo and finish with conditioner. Use this hair mask once a week.