YouTubers and TikTok-ers recently put the succulent in the spotlight with insanely simple DIY aloe vera hair mask videos that revealed head-turning results. One look at the salon-level glossiness (with just one application!) is enough to make us want to scoop out its jelly guts and slather from roots to ends. To dive deeper, we looked beyond the public praise, trending #aloe hashtags, and millions of video views, and turned to actual experts to see what they think about rubbing raw aloe vera on hair. “Aloe has long been a remedy for sunburnt skin because of its cooling and hydrating properties, and we have definitely been seeing amazing benefits to using it on your hair and scalp,” says Kerrie Urban, an L.A.-based celebrity hairstylist. “The hype is true—aloe contains vitamins, antioxidants, and amino and fatty acids that moisturize your hair and scalp and reduce breakage. It’s also chock-full of minerals like copper and zinc that have been proven to promote healthy hair growth.” There is a laundry list of reasons and uses that justify bringing an aloe plant into your life—including the simple fact that it’s insanely low maintenance, requiring watering only once every three weeks. (Even those with a black thumb can keep an aloe plant thriving!) Here’s everything you need to know about the green goodness—and how it can help you achieve healthier, shinier, and more beautiful hair.
Aloe Vera Benefits for Hair
“Since aloe doesn’t contain all of the additional parabens, sulfates, and synthetic fragrances in traditional shampoos, it provides a much gentler cleanse that preserves color and keeps hair healthy,” says Bonilla. There’s also the added sustainability factor (no wasted plastics and packaging), and the fact that an aloe plant will continue to grow and replenish itself after each use, making it environmentally friendly and cost-friendly. “Just remember, cutting into fresh aloe and using it right away is always best. Similar to when you’re juicing veggies, they start to lose certain vitamins and amino acids as they are exposed to air and break down over time,” says Urban. To reap the most benefits when using aloe as a hair treatment, it’s recommended for application as a weekly deep conditioning mask to replenish moisture, soothe scalp irritations, and restore vibrancy to both natural and color-treated hair. To apply, saturate the hair and scalp with a thin layer of aloe, and let it sit for 20 to 30 minutes before rinsing thoroughly. “No need to shampoo after; just make sure the hair feels like it’s completely rinsed and no residue is left behind,” says Urban.
