By Tara E. l February 21, 2025
Do you know what a humectant is or why they get so much attention in the natural hair community? Moisture is key to maintaining the lusciousness of natural hair. Humectants are vital in attracting and retaining moisture, ensuring your curls remain hydrated and defined. Among the many humectants, aloe vera stands out as a favorite. But what makes aloe vera so unique for African American hair? Let’s explore its magic together.
What is Aloe Vera?
Aloe vera is a succulent plant known for its soothing and healing properties. Its thick, gel-like substance is packed with vitamins, minerals, and amino acids, making it a powerhouse for natural hair care. Not only does it provide moisture, but it also strengthens and nourishes the hair from root to tip.
The Benefits of Aloe Vera for Natural Hair
Aloe vera is a natural humectant that attracts moisture from the environment and locks it into the hair shaft. For African American women, whose hair is often prone to dryness, aloe vera is a game-changer. It helps keep curls hydrated, reduces frizz, and enhances curl definition, all while promoting a healthy scalp.
How to Use Aloe Vera on Natural Hair
Incorporating aloe vera into your hair care routine is simple and effective. Here are some ways to use it:
- As a Leave-In Conditioner: Apply aloe vera gel directly to damp hair to lock in moisture.
- In Shampoos and Conditioners: Look for aloe vera products on Amazon.
- As a Scalp Treatment: Massage aloe vera gel into your scalp to soothe irritation and promote hair growth.
Read More about Leave-In Conditioners: Leave-in Conditioners 101: Keep Natural Hair Frizz Free
Comparing Aloe Vera with Other Humectants
While aloe vera is fantastic, it’s not the only humectant. Agave nectar, for instance, is another natural option.
Read more about humectants: Humectants for Natural Hair: Keep Your Curls Hydrated and Defined.
Aloe Vera vs. Other Common Humectants:
Which One is Best for Natural Hair?
Humectants are key ingredients in hair care, as they attract and retain moisture, keeping hair hydrated and healthy. Aloe vera is one of the most popular natural humectants, but how does it compare to other commonly used humectants like glycerin, honey, and hyaluronic acid?
Let’s break it down.
Aloe Vera
Key Benefits of the Aloe Vera:
- Attracts moisture and locks it into the hair shaft
- Lightweight and non-greasy
- Contains vitamins A, C, and E, which promote scalp health and hair growth
- Has soothing properties for an irritated or itchy scalp
- Works well in all climates without causing excessive frizz
Best For: All hair types, especially curly and coily textures prone to dryness
Glycerin
Key Benefits:
- Powerful moisture attractor that hydrates deeply
- Can help soften and smooth the hair cuticle
- Works well in humid environments but can cause frizz in extreme conditions
Downsides:
- If the air is too dry, glycerin can pull moisture from the hair instead of attracting it
- Can feel sticky or heavy if overused
Best For:
High-humidity conditions or as part of a well-balanced hair product
Honey
Key Benefits:
- Natural humectant and emollient, meaning it attracts moisture while sealing it in
- Contains antioxidants and nutrients that strengthen hair
- Helps prevent breakage and promotes shine
Downsides:
Can be sticky and difficult to apply unless dilutedMay cause buildup if not rinsed properly
Best For: Deep conditioning treatments and dry, brittle hair
Hyaluronic Acid
Key Benefits:
- Ultra-lightweight moisture binder
- Helps maintain the hair’s elasticity and prevents breakage
- Works well in both high and low humidity
Downsides:
- Best used with other moisturizing ingredients to prevent excessive water loss
- Can be more expensive compared to aloe vera and glycerin
Best For: Fine or low-porosity hair that needs hydration without added weight.
DIY Aloe Vera Hair Treatments
Aloe Vera & Coconut Oil Deep Conditioner (For Intense Moisture)
Best for: Dry, brittle hair in need of deep hydration
Ingredients:
- ½ cup fresh aloe vera gel (or 100% pure aloe vera gel)
- 2 tbsp coconut oil (or olive oil for a lighter option)
- 1 tbsp honey (optional for extra moisture)
Instructions:
1. Blend the aloe vera gel until smooth.
2. Mix in the coconut oil and honey until fully combined.
3. Apply the mixture to damp hair, focusing on the ends.
4. Cover with a plastic cap and let it sit for 30–45 minutes.
5. Rinse thoroughly and shampoo as usual.
Benefits:
This treatment deeply hydrates, nourishes, and strengthens the hair, leaving it soft and manageable.
Aloe Vera & Flaxseed Curl Defining Gel (For Frizz Control & Hold)
Best for: Defining curls and reducing frizz
Ingredients:
- ½ cup fresh aloe vera gel¼ cup flaxseeds
- 1 cup water
- 5 drops essential oil (optional, for fragrance)
Instructions:
1. Boil the flaxseeds in water for 5–10 minutes until the mixture thickens.
2. Strain the flaxseeds and keep the gel.
3. Blend the aloe vera gel with the flaxseed gel.
4. Add essential oil if desired.
5. Apply to damp hair for defined, frizz-free curls.
Benefits:
Provides hold, reduces frizz, and enhances natural curl pattern without drying out the hair.
Aloe Vera & Apple Cider Vinegar Scalp Treatment (For Growth & Dandruff Control)
Best for: Soothing the scalp, reducing dandruff, and stimulating hair growth
Ingredients:
- ½ cup fresh aloe vera gel
- 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tbsp castor oil (optional, for added scalp nourishment)
Instructions:
1. Blend the aloe vera gel until smooth.
2. Mix in apple cider vinegar and castor oil.
3. Apply to the scalp and massage for 5 minutes.
4. Leave on for 20 minutes, then rinse thoroughly.
Benefits:
Balances scalp pH, reduces itchiness and promotes hair growth by keeping the scalp healthy.
You can create your aloe vera hair mask at home using the following ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons of aloe vera gel
- one tablespoon of coconut oil
- a few drops of essential oil (optional)
Instructions for Making the Aloe Vera Hair Mask at Home
- Mix the ingredients and apply to your hair
- Leave the aloe vera hair mask on for 30 minutes
- Rinse your hair with lukewarm water
Conclusion
Aloe vera is more than just a plant; it’s a natural ally for your hair. Incorporating it into your routine allows you to enjoy hydrated, defined curls that shine with health. Explore our natural hair care section for more articles on Mahogany Speaks to You for more tips and insights on natural hair care.
Ready to embrace the benefits of aloe vera? Try it out and let us know your experience in the comments below. For more natural hair care tips, subscribe to our newsletter or follow us on Pinterest.