What is aloe vera?
Aloe vera is a succulent plant with fleshy leaves that contain a gel-like substance and grows in sunny climates all over the world. This gooey substance inside aloe vera leaves contains moisturising and nourishing properties that can even heal sunburned skin and surface wounds. In fact, you’ll find mention of aloe vera in the history of several cultures across the world, as it was used to address a myriad of concerns. Aloe vera is rich in vitamins, minerals and fatty acids, and its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties have made it immensely popular in DIY beauty rituals.
Is aloe vera good for hair?
Now that you know that aloe vera is a versatile, medicinal plant, let’s address the question you have been dying to know the answer to – is aloe vera good for hair? Yes, it is! All the remarkable properties that make aloe vera a highly coveted traditional remedy also make it the perfect moisturiser for dry hair that desperately needs an intense dose of hydration. Another factor that makes aloe vera popular is that it suits most hair types!
What are the various aloe vera benefits for hair?
Using aloe vera for hair has yielded numerous desirable results. Aloe vera is rich in vitamins, essential amino acids, plant steroids, fatty acids and minerals such as copper and zinc that contribute to hair growth.
Let’s take a look at the various benefits of aloe vera for hair:
Goodbye, oily hair!
Oily hair can disrupt your hair-washing schedule, and sprinkling talcum powder on your scalp won’t get rid of the greasiness. Aloe vera gel comes in handy in emergency situations, as it cleanses the hair shaft gently yet thoroughly. It removes the excess sebum and residue from your scalp and even gets rid of any build-up that might be adding to your hair’s greasiness. Moreover, unlike chemical hair products, when you use aloe vera on your hair, it deeply cleanses your hair strands without stripping your hair of its natural moisture.
Super long and strong hair!
One of the most alluring benefits of aloe vera for hair is that it gives you long and strong hair. Aloe vera gently cleanses your scalp and conditions your hair, thereby reducing the chances of hair breakage. It slows down the process of *hair loss. Using aloe vera for hair growth yields desirable results, as the plant is rich in vitamin C, E, B-12, folic acid and choline – all of which promote hair growth.
A natural sun guard
Using aloe vera on your hair before you go out gives you much-need protection from the sun. Aloe vera creates a natural protective layer around your hair and keeps it hydrated throughout the day. Moreover, it even keeps your tresses protected from damage caused by other environmental factors.
How do I use aloe vera on my hair?
If you are interested in using aloe vera for hair, here’s what you have to do:
- Cut a leaf from an aloe vera plant and remove the gel using a spoon.
- Mix it with coconut or olive oil and apply the mixture directly to your scalp. Let it sit for an hour.
- Wash the mixture off using a mild shampoo.
- Repeat this process at least two to three times a week.
DIY aloe vera hair masks are quite popular and leave your hair feeling soft and smooth.
If this seems like too much work for you, you can try the Herbal Essences Potent Aloe collection that contains 6x more aloe*, is hand-picked, sustainably sourced and endorsed by the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew – a world-leading authority on plants. The collection contains 0% sulphates** – they're replaced by ‘baby foam' that’s gentle on your tresses but lathers easily. The Potent Aloe Collection consists of shampoos and conditioners that are formulated to hydrate hair, strengthen your locks, protect the vibrancy of your hair colour and deeply nourish your scalp and hair, leaving your hair smelling and feeling great!
There’s no doubt that aloe vera, the desert lily, possesses nourishing properties that your hair would benefit from. So, even if you forget to water this small succulent, it flourishes and works selflessly to relieve you of any hair and skincare troubles. The queens loved it – and you will too!
*vs. current bio:renew range
**sulphate-free surfactants