Does Aloe Vera Work For Dandruff? Tips To Use & Precautions

Dandruff is a common scalp condition that impacts many people. Alternative therapies like natural ingredients have become a popular remedy to treat this condition. Research indicates that aloe vera works for dandruff management (1).

Most branded anti-dandruff products tend to leave the hair and scalp dry. Instead, you can use a natural remedy like aloe vera. Aloe vera contains proteins, vitamins, minerals, and fatty acids that nourish and fortify hair. These nutrients may help in managing and treating dandruff. Keep reading to know what science says about using aloe vera to reduce dandruff.

Did You Know?

Aloe vera contains protein, calcium, magnesium, zinc, vitamins A, B12, C, and E, and essential fatty acids like linolenic acid and linoleic acid (1).

Does Aloe Vera Work For Dandruff?

Aloe vera has anti-microbial properties (2). In a study, individuals with seborrheic dermatitis experienced relief from dandruff with aloe vera. The plant could effectively fight the Malassezia fungus that causes dandruff.

Aloe vera has also been used as an alternative natural treatment option to chemical-based shampoos.

But how do you use aloe vera to reduce your dandruff symptoms?

How Can Aloe Vera Be Used For Treating Dandruff?

Apply the aloe vera gel to the affected area. You can apply it in the form of a gel that you purchase from the market or extract the gel directly from the plant. Here is a step-by-step guide on using aloe vera gel to your hair to treat seborrheic dermatitis:

• Take the leaf of an aloe vera plant.

• Scoop the gel out with a spoon. You may blend it with olive oil or coconut oil.

• Rub the gel or the mixture directly into your scalp.

• Leave it on for an hour.

• Wash the mixture from your hair using a mild shampoo and then use a moisturizing conditioner.

• You can repeat the process 2 to 3 times a week or as required.

Doro Cubilo, a YouTuber, shares her experience of using aloe vera gel on her hair. She says, “My scalp is very clean. It hasn’t developed any dandruff and I don’t see any dryness either in the scalp (i).”

You can even toss in some lemon to kick things up a notch. Let’s find out how!

Aloe Vera And Lemon For Dandruff

Lemon juice aids in various ways to improve skin and nail health (3). According to anecdotal evidence, lemon balances the pH of the scalp and eliminates excess oil, which may help reduce symptoms of dandruff such as flakiness and itching. This hair mask for dandruff may also help reduce itchiness and irritation.

What You Will Need

• 2 tablespoons of fresh aloe vera gel
• Lemon juice (from one lemon)

What You Have To Do

1. Mix the aloe vera gel with the lemon juice to create a mixture.
2. Apply this mixture to your scalp, gently massaging it in.
3. Leave it on for 10-20 minutes.
4. Rinse thoroughly with water and a mild, sulfate-free shampoo.

How Often You Should Do This

Use this remedy once or two times a week to effectively combat dandruff.

Quick Tip

To extract aloe vera gel from the plant, choose thick outer leaves that are free of mold or disease and cut them close to the base.

What Precautions Should Be Followed While Applying Aloe Vera For Dandruff?

Topical use of aloe vera gel may cause hives, skin irritation, and other allergies. You may experience these effects if you are already allergic to plants like onions and tulips that are part of the lily family (4). Do a patch test before using raw aloe vera gel or any at-home aloe vera masks on your scalp.

If you have purchased aloe vera gel from the market, ensure you follow the directions given on the product. Go for a brand recommended by your doctor. Choose a well-known brand to avoid any contamination in the form of other drugs or toxic metals.

While you can leave the aloe vera gel on your hair for an hour, can you do so overnight? Or would it cause any adverse effects?

Can I Leave Aloe Vera On My Hair Overnight For Treating Dandruff?

Yes, you can leave aloe vera gel on your hair overnight for treating dandruff. These are the steps to follow:

• Apply the aloe vera gel to your dry hair at night.

• Wear a hair cap to keep your pillow from getting stained.

• Rinse your hair with water. Shampoo and condition as usual, the next morning.

Summing It Up

Infographic: A Guide To Using Aloe Vera For Dandruff

The current anti-dandruff products in the market leave your scalp dry and itchy. So, if you are looking for a natural remedy to help manage this condition, you have come to the right place. Aloe vera may help prevent scalp dryness and fight dandruff. Check out this infographic to learn how to use this ingredient for dandruff and some precautions to keep in mind.

Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team

Frequently Asked Questions

Can aloe vera be used for styling your hair?

Yes, aloe vera gel can be used for styling your hair. Here is how:
• Add aloe vera pulp, a tablespoon of lemon juice, contents of a vitamin C capsule, and a few drops of moisturizing oil into a blender.
• Pour the mixture into a jar and store it in the refrigerator.
• Use the gel on your hair within three days.

Is it safe to consume aloe vera?

No, it is not safe to consume aloe vera for dandruff. It could cause diarrhea or kidney damage (4). Stick to topical use only.

How can fresh aloe vera gel be preserved?

You can preserve aloe vera gel by storing it in a refrigerator. But remember to use it within three days.

Is aloe vera good for dry hair?

Yes. Aloe vera gel is lightweight and has moisturizing properties. Therefore, it may help manage dry and frizzy hair.

Does aloe vera reduce hair fall?

Although research is insufficient regarding aloe vera’s hair fall reducing properties, it has anti-inflammatory and healing properties and may soothe flaky scalp and dryness caused by dandruff. This may minimize itchiness and scratching, which often damages the hair follicles, thus, reducing the risk of hair fall.

Illustration: Dandruff Treatment With Aloe Vera

Image: Stable Diffusion/StyleCraze Design Team

Aloe vera is a healthy and nourishing ingredient for your hair! Get rid of dandruff, get soft, silky, bouncy hair – all with the help of aloe vera! Watch this video to learn more about the amazing benefits of aloe vera for your hair.

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Sergio R. Cardona PerezCertified Trichologist

   

Sergio Cardona is a certified trichologist, a passionate professor, an international public speaker, and an advocate of the trichology profession, with 21 years of experience. Currently, he is an Advisory Board Member, Trichology Professor and Director of Communications for the World Trichology Society.

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Annie JangamBeauty & Lifestyle Writer

 

Annie Jangam is a researcher-turned-content writer with 11 years of experience. She enjoys dissecting complex clinical studies and shuffling through the scientific jargon to make science interesting and easy to understand.

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Eshna DasAssociate Editor

Eshna is an associate editor and a certified skin care coach. She has over three years of experience, a triple main bachelor’s degree in psychology, English, and journalism from Mount Carmel College, Bengaluru, and a master’s degree in psychology from Sampurna Montfort College, Bengaluru.

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Swathi ESenior Beauty & Lifestyle Writer

Swathi has a postgraduate degree in English literature from The English And Foreign Languages University, Hyderabad, and over three years of experience in writing on beauty, health, and lifestyle. She also has a diploma in English journalism from the Indian Institute of Mass Communication, Kottayam, and is a certified skincare coach.

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