The Reality of "Aloe Vera-Based" Hair Care
Lane and Obukowho have used aloe vera in formulating skin and hair products many times, and they both prefer to work with it in its gel-like liquid state, rather than in powder form, which may be less effective. However, Obukowho says that simply picking up a hair-care product that touts having aloe vera in it doesn't ensure you'll achieve all the benefits listed above.
"We use aloe vera a lot, and ingredient stories are about place. Marketing people love it because aloe vera itself is a natural, organic ingredient, so it's a good story to tell," he says. "I've been doing formulations for 27 years, and aloe vera concentration is below 1% in every formula I've worked with, even though marketing goes around and makes big claims."
Obukowho notes that while aloe vera has been around for thousands of years and has historically been used for a variety of benefits, its efficacy in products is questionable. He doesn't believe there is ample research to back all of the claims made about aloe. Obukowho adds that nearly all shampoos and conditioners on the market—as well as many other hair-care products—are formulated with surfactants, chemical compounds that can bond water and oil, which can interfere with aloe vera's integrity.
The major purpose of surfactants in hair-care product formulations is to remove dirt, so it's a pretty important part of the formulation process, but it breaks down those buzzy active ingredients listed on labels that are the initial draw for consumers (think: olive and argan oils, vitamin E or aloe vera), Obukowho explains. However, there are some formulations out there that feature bases that will actually work with the active ingredients, and Obukowho says that oil- or water-based products that contain aloe vera are likely more effective than your typical drugstore shampoo that advertises being made with aloe.
Additionally, Obukowho notes that consumers often forget that hair is dead. If you're looking to heal dandruff or other scalp issues, improve hair growth and boost the overall health of your hair, a product needs to be used directly on the scalp. For example, while an aloe vera-based conditioner may help moisturize your hair, you won't reap the anti-inflammatory benefits or see longer strands. You'll need to use something on your scalp if your goal is to promote hair growth and healing.
How to Use Aloe Vera for Hair
If you don't want to take the time to research aloe-based hair care products, the ingredient is very potent in juice form and straight from the plant itself, both of which are becoming more commonly found at supermarkets and should be available at most natural-foods stores.
"For those who have a dry or flaky scalp, doing aloe vera juice rinses weekly will help promote a healthier scalp and can also reduce itchiness as well," says Lane. "Aloe vera juice rinses on the hair are also a great way to give your hair a juicy treat throughout the week, especially if it's feeling a bit on the dry side." You can also scoop out the gel found in the center of aloe vera leaves (or purchase it bottled) and apply it directly to the scalp and strands for an all-natural (and very inexpensive) hair mask.
If you are looking for special products beyond raw aloe to refresh your daily or weekly hair-care regimen, it's worth taking the time to find the ones that will give you the most bang for your buck. An all-natural shampoo with a short, simple ingredient list could be worth the investment for those looking for scalp relief and added moisture. An aloe vera-based thickening spray that can be applied to your roots may also be a viable option if you're looking to promote hair growth. Just remember that everyone reacts differently to certain products and ingredients, so be sure to monitor how your scalp and skin are feeling if you incorporate a new step into your self-care regimen.Ready for What? Carlsbad.
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The Real Benefits of Aloe Vera for Hair, According to Experts
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A PERSON'S MIND IS SO POWERFUL. WE CAN INVENT, CREATE, EXPERIENCE, AND DESTROY THINGS WITH THOUGHTS ALONE.'
A PERSON'S MIND IS SO POWERFUL. WE CAN INVENT, CREATE, EXPERIENCE, AND DESTROY THINGS WITH THOUGHTS ALONE.'
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