Aloe vera is a cactus-like plant that belongs to the genus Aloe. It originates in the Arabian Peninsula and is grown around the world. In many regions, it is even considered an invasive species. For centuries, allow vera has been cultivated for products, including cosmetics, ointments, and skin lotions. The aloe vera leaves contain several plant compounds, amino acids, salicylic acids, sugars, minerals, vitamins, and enzymes.
It is a rich source of vitamins A, C, and E, all of which have antioxidant properties that neutralize free radicals in our bodies. It contains enzymes like cellulase, lipase, and bradykinesia, which help reduce inflammation when applied to the skin as a topical. It also includes minerals like magnesium, calcium, copper, selenium, sodium, and zinc which ensures the proper functioning of the metabolic process.
All in all, aloe vera has antiseptic, antiviral, antitumor, laxative, moisturizing, anti-inflammatory, and healing properties. Now, let us look at the benefits of aloe vera on hair and how to use it properly.
5 reasons to use aloe vera for hair:
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Calms an itchy scalp- Dandruff or itching scalp can be treated with aloe vera. Aloe vera can resolve scalp inflammation as the fatty acids present in the aloe plant exhibit anti-inflammatory properties.
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Strengthens hair- Aloe vera is a rich source of vitamins A, B12, C, and E, along with fatty acids and amino acids. All of these vital nutrients play an important role in strengthening hair by improving the health of hair follicles.
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Restores pH balance of our scalp- Excessively using shampoos, conditioners, hair sprays, and other hair products can disturb the pH balance of our hair. The pH range of aloe vera is similar to that of our scalp. Therefore, using aloe vera restores the pH balance of our scalp.
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Deeply cleanses oily/greasy hair- If you have naturally oily hair, then you understand the importance of a deep cleanse the buildup of oil and dirt on the scalp can lead to scalp acne, itchy scalp, and dandruff. Applying an aloe vera hair mask frequently can clean the scalp thoroughly and remove excess oil from the hair. Plus, aloe vera’s antibacterial properties prevent dandruff and promote naturally strong and healthy hair.
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Protects hair from sun damage- Applying aloe vera masks on our skin and hair regularly helps to form a protective barrier against harmful exposure to sun rays. It also helps repair hair that has suffered from sun damage because of its high collagen content and soothing properties.
How to use aloe vera for hair?
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Aloe vera leave-in conditioner- Aloe vera gel mixed with ten drops of any essential oil that is beneficial for your hair makes for an excellent leave-in conditioner. This smooth paste can be applied to your tresses after every wash to boost hydration and moisture in dry, dull, and damaged hair.
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Aloe vera and coconut oil hair mask- Aloe vera gel mixed with hot coconut oil makes a wonderful air mask that can be applied to the roots and strands of the hair. Leave it up for 30 to 60 minutes and follow up with shampoo and conditioner. Use once a week for best results.
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Aloe vera overnight hair tonic- Aloe vera gel and ginger juice overnight hair tonics can work wonders for your hair and scalp. Both aloe vera and ginger exhibit healing, anti-bacterial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties. Apply the hair tonic on your scalp and massage for 20 minutes. Leave overnight and wash the next day.
If you have never used aloe vera gel on your hair or skin, then we advise you to do a patch test on your skin before using it. To conduct a patch test, apply aloe vera gel on either your elbow, wrist, or nape of the neck. Wait for 24 to 36 hours and look for signs of an allergic reaction.
