Aloe vera is becoming increasingly popular with people who want natural remedies for hair care instead of synthetic, chemical products. However, there is not enough evidence to suggest that aloe vera promotes hair growth. According to Prof. Dr Fuat, a plastic surgeon at Longevita, aloe vera only indirectly affects hair growth.
For thousands of years, people have used aloe vera as a medicinal plant. This succulent is native to Arabia but can grow naturally in warm and arid tropics. It has short stems and thick leaves that store water. Besides treating skin injuries, aloe vera has been used for many other reasons, one of which is to promote hair growth.
How Does Aloe Vera Help With Hair Growth?
According to Dr Fuat, it is unclear whether aloe vera boosts hair growth. Its proven soothing properties may help maintain a healthy scalp which can, in turn, ensure healthy hair growth. However, the effect is indirect.
For instance, seborrheic dermatitis is a chronic skin condition that commonly affects the scalp. Symptoms include a red patch of itchy skin and white, yellow, or crusty flakes. It also causes dandruff in adults and teenagers. The intense itching and clogged pores that accompany this condition can lead to hair loss.
Since seborrheic dermatitis is a skin disease, it may be possible to soothe the scalp with aloe vera and increase hair growth as a result. A recent study found that aloe vera gel treatment improved symptoms of seborrheic dermatitis on the face by 80%.
Still, further research is necessary to determine how aloe vera treats dandruff and how it works. But it may have the potential to help with hair loss caused by poor scalp health.
What Are The Other Potential Benefits Of Aloe Vera?
Following are the other potential benefits of aloe vera, but further research is needed to investigate its effectiveness:
Acne Therapy
It may be possible to reduce acne by combining the aloe-based gel with medical soap and tretinoin gel. The gel has antimicrobial properties. Not just that, but two chemicals found in aloe vera – aloin and aloesin – have also been found to help with hyperpigmentation.
Burn Relief
Aloe vera has many names, one of which is the “burn plant.” That’s because it’s pretty popularly used for burn relief. Some scientific evidence suggests that it can help with first and second-degree burns. Applied topically, it can help reduce burn and even speed up the healing process.
Health Conditions
Aloe vera may help treat various illnesses such as:
- Herpes simplex
- Lichen planus
- Psoriasis
- Irritable bowel syndrome
- Ulcerative colitis
It has also been touted as a treatment for diabetic foot ulcers and dental plaque, but the evidence on it is insufficient. If you are considering using aloe vera to treat any skin condition, consult a dermatologist first.
Conclusion
Aloe vera’s benefits for hair growth have not been studied in depth. Consult a physician before investing money and time in hair products, natural or unnatural. In order to prevent hair loss, you must first identify the cause and seek treatment accordingly.
