Aloe vera has been used for centuries to treat various medical conditions. Ancient Egyptians considered it "the plant of immortality." Aloe vera contains many healthy vitamins, minerals, and other essential compounds. It is most widely known for its ability to soothe sunburned skin. Aloe vera has recently gained popularity for improving hair.
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Aloe vera is a cactus-like plant that contains vitamins, minerals, fatty acids, amino acids, and other helpful compounds.
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Aloe vera has been used for thousands of years to treat many different medical conditions, but good studies are limited.
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Aloe vera may help hair in several ways, such as cleansing, calming, moisturizing, promoting growth, and repairing damage.
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Studies supporting the use of aloe vera for hair are limited or lacking, and more research is required.
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Aloe vera is mostly safe for topical use and has a low risk of side effects, such as allergic reactions or irritant contact dermatitis.
Read on to discover the benefits and side effects of using aloe vera for hair.
What is aloe vera?
Aloe vera is an abundant cactus-like shrub that thrives in drier subtropical environments. For thousands of years, since Ancient Egypt, people have used it to treat certain medical problems with varied success. Some research has demonstrated its ability to treat several medical issues, including hyperlipidemia, constipation, diabetes, burns, and wounds. However, the research is limited, and more is needed.
Aloe vera contains abundant active compounds:
| Compound | Purpose | Compound | Purpose |
| Vitamins A, C, and E | Antioxidant properties | Anthraquinones | Antimicrobial properties |
| Calcium, copper, and zinc | Support different metabolic functions | Enzymes | Reduce inflammation |
| Fatty acids | Anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties | Lignan | Enhance the penetration of products |
| Amino acids | Essential to make proteins | Saponins | Cleansing agents |
| Hormones | Anti-inflammatory properties | Salicylic acid | Antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties |
What are the benefits of aloe vera for hair?
There is a lack of evidence and good studies to support the benefit of aloe vera for hair. Many of the reports are anecdotal. Because aloe vera contains numerous amazing, active compounds, many believe it can help improve hair. More research and evidence are needed to support this claim.
Here are some potential benefits of topical aloe vera:
- Soothes. It can stop the itch and inflammation of seborrheic dermatitis, psoriasis, and sunburns.
- Removes oil. It contains compounds that can gently cleanse the skin and hair.
- Repairs hair and promotes growth. It has vitamins, fatty acids, and amino acids, which may promote healthy hair growth.
- Moisturizes. It can moisturize hair, which may prevent breakage, dullness, and frizz.
Side effects of aloe vera
Topical aloe vera is considered safe and has few side effects, which occur rarely. If you have sensitive skin or are prone to allergic reactions, try a test spot first. It is possible to have an allergic reaction to or experience contact dermatitis from topical aloe vera. Always consult your dermatologist before starting anything new to ensure it is right for you.
Aloe vera comes from the lily family. If you are allergic to any of the other members of the family, you should avoid using aloe vera. Other family members include garlic, onions, shallots, asparagus, chives, and leeks.
Possible side effects include:
- Redness
- Swelling
- Itching
- Soreness
- Burning
- Flaking or scaling
How to use aloe vera on hair
There are two ways to reap the potential benefits of aloe vera for hair. You can use store-bought products that contain aloe vera, such as hair gels, serums, or shampoos. It is the quickest and easiest way to add aloe vera to your beauty routine.
Many grow their own aloe plants and harvest the gel from the leaves. You simply cut the leaf open and scoop out the gel. You can apply it directly on the hair, left on for 30–60 minutes, then wash it off. Some combine raw aloe with different nourishing oils to create a hair mask or lemon juice to get a deep clean.
Aloe vera contains numerous compounds that can potentially improve hair. However, studies are lacking, and more research is needed to confirm these benefits. Topical aloe vera is mostly safe with few side effects. If you are interested in trying aloe vera for your hair, ask your dermatologist if it is right for you.
FAQ
Can I use aloe vera every day on my hair?
There are no studies confirming the safety and efficacy of applying aloe vera daily on your hair. It is probably safe, but you may only need to use it 2–3 times a week. You could try a test spot first.
Can I use aloe vera if I am using topical steroids?
Aloe vera may increase the absorption of topical steroids. This could lead to unwelcome side effects, such as acne. Discuss it with your doctor first before combining the two.
Can I use aloe vera if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?
There are no studies confirming the safety of topical aloe vera use during pregnancy or breastfeeding. It is best to discuss it with your obstetrician first. You do not want to harm your baby.
Who shouldn't use aloe vera on their hair?
Topical aloe vera is safe for all hair types. Its moisturizing capabilities are especially beneficial to dry, coily, or curly hair. Many believe it can also help strengthen hair because it contains many vitamins and minerals to support healthy hair. However, there are no studies to support its use. Aloe vera will not remove hair dye, so it is safe for color-treated hair.
- Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology. Hairfluencer social media trends every dermatologist should know in 2021.
- Advances in Pharmacologic and Pharmaceutical Sciences. Hair washing formulations from Aloe elegans todaro gel: The potential for making hair shampoo.
- Molecules. Composition and applications of Aloe vera leaf gel.
- Indian Journal of Dermatology. Aloe vera: a short review.
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