If there’s one ingredient beauty lovers never forget, it’s aloe vera. Also known simply as aloe, this plant is a true classic in hair and skincare. After all, its gel has won over fans for its ability to moisturise, strengthen, and add glow to both hair and skin. But have you ever tried applying aloe vera oil to your hair?
Unlike the gel, which is extracted directly from the leaf, aloe vera oil is made by infusing the plant in vegetable oils such as coconut, castor, or almond oil. The result? A powerhouse blend that combines aloe vera’s hydrating, soothing, and regenerating properties with the nourishing and emollient benefits of the chosen carrier oil.
For instance, when infused with coconut oil, aloe vera enhances hydration and shine, making it ideal for dry and damaged hair. When combined with almond oil, it becomes lighter and better suited for fine or oily hair.
But why does it deserve a permanent place in your haircare routine? Here are five reasons to put aloe vera oil at the top of your beauty routine.
1. Intense Hydration
You know that feeling of soft, silky, and manageable hair? Aloe vera oil delivers exactly that. It’s rich in mucopolysaccharides, compounds that retain moisture within the hair fibre, ensuring deep and long-lasting hydration.
This means that, beyond simply nourishing the strands, it helps lock in moisture for longer, preventing dryness and roughness. No wonder it’s a must-have for those struggling with dry ends or easily tangled hair.
Plus, it acts as a natural sealant, coating the hair cuticle to keep strands smooth, frizz-free, and incredibly soft.
2. Stronger, Healthier Hair
If you’re looking for stronger, more resilient strands, aloe vera oil might just be your new best friend. It’s packed with vitamins A, C, and E—key nutrients for a healthy scalp and hair growth.
These vitamins support cell regeneration, stimulate hair follicles, and promote thicker strands from the root. Additionally, its antioxidant properties help protect against daily damage, preventing hair from weakening over time.
An added bonus? Stronger hair is less prone to breakage, meaning you won’t experience that frustrating cycle of “it grows, but never gets longer.”
3. Mirror-Like Shine
Who doesn’t love ultra-glossy hair? Aloe vera oil is packed with natural enzymes and antioxidants that revitalise strands, restoring a healthy and luminous appearance.
It works by sealing the cuticles, creating a smoother surface that reflects light better—making it a lifesaver for hair that’s been damaged by chemical treatments or colour processing.
Here’s a pro tip: if applying the oil directly, use it sparingly. The key is to apply just a little and wash it out thoroughly to keep your hair light, bouncy, and free of any heavy, greasy feel.
4. Oil Control & Scalp Balance
It might seem counterintuitive, but aloe vera oil is actually a great way to regulate excess oil. It helps balance sebum production on the scalp, keeping your hair fresher for longer.
Unlike overly astringent shampoos that strip the scalp and trigger even more oil production as a response, aloe vera oil hydrates just enough without clogging pores. This prevents the rebound effect while also combating dandruff-related flaking and itching.
If your scalp tends to get greasy quickly, try adding a few drops of aloe vera oil to your shampoo right before washing, or use it as a pre-wash treatment.
5. A Protective Shield
Every day, our hair faces a range of stressors—sun exposure, pollution, heat styling, chemical treatments—all of which can take a toll on its health. Aloe vera oil forms a protective barrier that helps minimise these effects, keeping your strands strong for longer.
But here’s a crucial warning: if you plan to use heat tools, check the product label first. Pure oils should not be applied before heat styling, as they can heat up quickly and “fry” your strands. Instead, opt for a heat protectant specifically designed for styling tools.
Aloe Vera Oil: Which One to Choose?
Aloe Vera Oil, NatuHair – £2.10
With hydrating and nourishing properties, this oil helps prevent hair loss, strengthens strands, tames frizz, and reduces the appearance of split ends.
Farmax Aloe Vera Oil – £4.25
Designed to protect and strengthen hair, this formula helps keep strands hydrated and shiny.
Soft Fix Aloe Vera Oil Hair Strengthening – £1.80
This oil guarantees hydration and resilience, making it ideal for both direct application and as an enhancement for your go-to hair mask.
This article was originally published by Bruna Ribeiro on the Marie Claire Brazil website.
