How To Use Aloe Vera For Healthy Hair & Scalp
Aloe is one of the things that many women are divided about when it comes to hair care. Some say it has caused their hair to thrive, while others say it dried their hair out. Before you decide to add aloe to your hair regime it is important that you understand the properties of aloe that may cause an issue for some people.
The two properties of aloe vera that have the potential to cause an issue for our hair are its saponins and film-forming properties.
Saponins
Saponins are nature’s soap (surfactant). Aloe’s saponin content is one of the reasons why it is used in some parts of the world as a natural shampoo. Saponins remove excess oil and cleanse the scalp and hair. This is one of the reasons why it makes a great treatment for the scalp. It will help to gently cleanse the scalp. It is also anti-inflammatory which is beneficial for those with scalp issues or for a healthy scalp in general. However, if used on the hair as a leave-in, it has the potential to absorb the oil from your hair and leave it feeling dry.
Film Forming
Aloe is a natural film former(forms a thin film on the hair). Film formers are great and help the hair stay hydrated. However, from personal experience, I have noticed that using it at high levels can cause the hair to feel a bit hard. It may remind you of the same feeling you get after using hydrolyzed proteins which are also film formers. This feeling will be may be more noticeably if you have coarse/thick strands.
How to Use Aloe
Scalp Treatment
Use it on your scalp only. Do not leave overnight or for more than 30 mins. using aloe in this way can allow you to have the benefits without issue.
Hair Treatment
Dilute aloe heavily before applying it to your hair. Or pair with oil/butter.
Aloe Spritzer
1/2 cup water
2 tsp aloe juice/gel (use 1 tsp if it’s still too drying)
Diluting your aloe juice or gel heavily will reduce the drying effect that some people experience. If you pair your aloe juice with oil or butter it will also minimize the effect.