5 reasons why Aloe vera is the key to strong hair
Aloe Vera is a gelatinous plant belonging to the Liliaceae family (lily). It is well known for its health and medicinal qualities, containing nothing short of 200 active components, including vitamins, minerals, amino acids, enzymes and polysaccharide. If you slice open an Aloe Vera leaf, you will discover a gel-like substance oozing out. The role of this gel in treating burns, moisturising the skin and relieving itching is well documented, however it is also known to play a very significant role in maintaining a healthy hair and scalp. Here we look at 5 key ways in which Aloe vera is the key to shiny, strong hair.
1. Dandruff and scalp health
Aloe vera gel or juice is useful for removing impurities from the scalp. Its enzymes break down and destroy dead skin flakes, so your scalp can breathe more easily. What’s more, its antifungal, antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties help fight the fungus associated with dandruff and other scalp problems, helping to relieve and soothe itchy scalps.
Aloe vera will also help you maintain a healthy pH balance to prevent seborrheic dermatitis, otherwise known as dandruff, from occurring again. In addition, it can help to counter the damaging effects of the sun on the scalp.
2. Combatting hair loss and encouraging growth
Aloe Vera contains an extensive list of minerals, vitamins, and antioxidants, such as vitamin B12. This helps induce the hair follicles’ anagen or growth phase. Its scalp soothing qualities help to guard against hair loss and the gel also stimulates blood circulation to your scalp, promoting an environment conducive to hair growth. As well as applying it topically, you can also add it to your diet by taking a shot of aloe vera juice in the morning.
Used regularly, Aloe Vera will eradicate dead skin cells, lock in moisture, prevent dryness and reduce excess oil. This provides all the right conditions for healthy hair growth.
3. Detangling
Aloe Vera is similar in chemical structure to Keratin, a key protein in hair formation. It aids detangling by penetrating the hair shaft, leaving the hair soft and manageable. This makes it the ideal choice for hair products or for a homemade conditioner or detangler. It is especially useful for providing and maintaining moisture in Afro hair, and helping to define curls.
Pro-tip: Mix aloe vera juice or gel and distilled water, honey, and coconut oil for the ultimate super soft conditioner.
4. Combating Frizziness
Packed with several beneficial nutrients, Aloe Vera is one of the best natural ingredients for frizzy hair due to its essential moisturising role. The gel is also well known as an effective curl definer. It can be used in its natural state, straight from the plant, but products high in Aloe Vera are readily accessible. Whether you buy or make your own hair gel, use its juice as a hair mist, or simply use it as part of a mask, you’ll be one step closer to beating the frizz.
5. Clean and Shiny hair
Aloe Vera is both gentle and effective at removing excess sebum and product residue from your hair leaving it clean, soft, and smooth. It will leave your locks shiny without them feeling weighed down. The best thing is that you only need a few drops for it to smooth out your hair cuticles, lock in moisture, and enhance shine. Containing antioxidants Vitamin C and E, it is one of nature’s miracle conditioners and will promote good hair health and structure.
