JOIN USJust like our skin, our mane too responds only to the right kind of care and protection. We often ignore our hair, sighting lack of time and end up spending a fortune on chemical treatments at hair salons that don't give any long-term results. In most cases, these treatments strip our hair of its protective layer and make it look weak and damaged.
The best way is to turn to natural care and use products that promote hair growth, alleviate dryness and keep them lustrous. If you are looking for a one-stop solution for all your hair woes, aloe vera is the answer. One of the most useful plants with medicinal properties, aloe vera is a 'wonder plant' that can be used as the perfect natural weapon to steer clear of any hair and skin problems.
With the onset of winter, our hair is prone to weather-induced problems. Aloe vera, which is a low-maintenance plant, is the best way to get rid of these problems naturally. Which is why you need to read the following tips to be able to flaunt your lustrous mane this season:
*Does your hair lack shine and appears dull often? Instead of going for shine-enhancing treatments and spending a bomb on chemical hair masks and shampoos, apply aloe vera gel on your hair regularly. The plant's juices will lock the moisture content in your hair and keep your tresses hydrated. The hydrating quality makes it excellent for scalp hygiene and it also boosts hair growth.
* Unable to resist the urge to scratch your head? Itchy and dry scalp can lead to hair thinning and hair loss. The best way to stop the itchy sensation is to apply aloe gel directly on the scalp. Aloe vera contains soothing and calming properties that can condition the scalp and keep the itch under control. Aloe vera also has anti-fungal properties that can prevent scalp infections including dandruff problems.
* Noticing more hairs on your pillow or hairbrush than normal? Losing 50 to 100 strands of hair in a day is considered common, but are you sure you are still in the safe zone? Applying aloe vera on your tresses and scalp regularly can put an end to hair fall. The gel strengthens your hair, making it thick and voluminous. Proteolytic enzymes in the plant repair dead skin cells on the scalp and promote hair growth. Extract pure gel from the leaves of the plant and apply it two to three times a week for best results.
* Yearning for voluminous and bouncy hair? Using aloe vera can improve hair texture. The plant is rich in proteins and vitamins that promote hair growth, reduce breakage, improve texture and make your locks silky and bouncy.
In order to extract the gel from the plant, cut a leaf into two halves and scrape the top layer of clear gel. Store the gel in a plastic bag and keep it in the refrigerator. Here are a few ways in which aloe vera can be used for hair care:
* Mix castor oil and aloe vera gel and apply this potion on the scalp using a cotton ball. Leave it on for 15 minutes. You can cover your head with a hot towel for some more time to ensure better results.
* Beat an egg and mix it with aloe vera gel. Apply this mask onto your scalp and hair. Let it stay on for 20 to 30 minutes and then it wash off with a mild shampoo. You can apply this mask two to three times every week. These ingredients work together for improving hair health and accelerating hair growth.
* Combine lemon juice, essential oils with aloe vera gel and apply this conditioner on scalp for complete hair hygiene.
(The author is hair & make-up expert, Oriflame India)