Aloe vera for hair: benefits and how to use it in your routine

Aloe vera is a succulent plant whose clear pulp, made up overwhelmingly of water, is highly prized in cosmetics for its moisturising properties. For textured hair, which is naturally drier, it is an ally of choice: aloe vera hydrates the fibre, soothes the scalp and makes detangling easier.

In this ingredient focus, JIABLOG explains what aloe vera does for your curly, coily and afro-textured hair, and how to add it to your hair routine.

What is aloe vera?

Aloe vera is an exotic succulent plant with thick, spiny, evergreen leaves. Its exact origin is still debated, but today it is grown in many tropical and subtropical regions. It has been used since Antiquity in traditional medicine, notably in ancient Egypt and ancient Greece.

Its special feature lies in its leaves: they contain a transparent pulp, extremely rich in water, which is the source of its hydrating power. In cosmetics, it is used in gel or juice form.

What are the benefits of aloe vera for textured hair?

1. It hydrates the hair fiber

Well-hydrated hair stays supple and easy to style. But textured hair is naturally drier: sebum has a harder time traveling down a coiled fiber. It therefore benefits fully from the hydrating properties of aloe vera, which helps protect hair from dehydration and brings shine and definition to curls.

2. It soothes the scalp

Aloe vera is traditionally used for its soothing properties. On a sensitive or uncomfortable scalp, a shampoo or treatment containing it can help restore comfort.

JIA TIP: to wash your hair without drying it out, choose a hydrating shampoo made with aloe vera. If itching or dandruff persists, talk to a dermatologist.

3. It coats the fiber and makes detangling easier

Its gel coats the hair fiber: hair becomes softer and shinier and detangles more easily, which helps limit breakage when detangling.

In short: aloe vera hydrates, soothes and softens, and it suits many hair types.

How to include aloe vera in your hair care routine?

You'll find aloe vera in several treatments from the Jia Paris For My Curls range.

To cleanse: cleansing treatments

• The Conditioner makes detangling easier.
• The Hydrating Shampoo removes impurities and styling product residue while hydrating curly and afro-textured hair.
• The Clarifying Shampoo deeply cleanses the scalp; use it occasionally, for example once a month.

Find them all in the cleansing care collection.

To nourish: deep treatments

The Intensive Nourishing Mask deeply nourishes and makes curls softer, shinier and easier to manage.

To hydrate and style: styling treatments

• The Hair Milk revitalizes and hydrates the lengths. It suits thick wavy hair and fine curls.
• The Leave-in Conditioner hydrates the fibre and helps to better control frizz. It is designed for afro-textured or damaged hair.
• The Hydrating Spray combines aloe vera and glycerin to refresh your curls between washes.

Find them in the styling care collection.

JIA TIP: the Intensive Nourishing Mask and the Leave-in Conditioner are not used in the same routine. Alternate them: shampoo and mask on wash day, then leave-in on damp hair on the other days.

Your questions about aloe vera and hair

Is aloe vera good for curly and afro-textured hair?

Yes. Aloe vera is a hydrating ingredient, and curly, coily and afro-textured hair, which is naturally drier, needs hydration. It helps keep hair supple, shiny and easier to detangle.

Can you apply pure aloe vera gel to your hair?

Yes, on damp hair and in small amounts. First do a test in the crook of your elbow to check that you tolerate it. Pure gel can leave a dry feel as it dries: a treatment formulated with aloe vera is often more comfortable.

Does aloe vera make hair grow?

No cosmetic ingredient can promise to make hair grow. Aloe vera hydrates and softens the fiber, which contributes to the comfort and appearance of the hair. If you experience significant hair loss, consult a healthcare professional.

Does aloe vera help with an itchy scalp?

It is valued for its soothing properties. It does not replace a treatment: if itching or dandruff persists, see a dermatologist.

Which Jia Paris products contain aloe vera?

The Conditioner, the Hydrating Shampoo, the Clarifying Shampoo, the Intensive Nourishing Mask, the Hair Milk, the Leave-in Conditioner and the Hydrating Spray contain it. Find the full range on the For My Curls page.

Aloe vera, a simple step for softer hair

Hydrating, soothing, coating: aloe vera fully deserves its place in a textured hair routine. To find out which products to choose for your texture, take the hair diagnosis or discover our routines by hair type.

See you very soon for another ingredient focus!