A few months ago, I was in search of an alternative to EcoStyler gel, something a bit more natural. I wasn't about that life enough to make flaxseed gel, so I read somewhere that Aloe Vera Gel was a great substitute. So, I sauntered my happy behind down to Vitamin Shoppe and bought a big ole' bottle of Lily of the Desert Aloe Vera Gel for about $9. I tried it on my hair one day, instead of EcoStyler gel and was sorely disappointed. I hated how my hair looked and felt. Not to be outdone, I took my happy behind back to Vitamin Shoppe and graciously returned their product to them (love their return policy). I couldn't understand why so many naturals raved on and on about how awesome the stuff was. I felt misled.
Fast forward to this week. Fran's video helped me realize that Aloe Vera is not a styling tool, and that I had gone about using it all wrong. Friday, I went to Vitamin Shoppe committed to giving the Aloe another go. I'm not gonna lie to you, it was probably the best thing I have done for my hair to date. Here is the routine I followed:
- Pre-wash detangle with water in a spray bottle and Kinky Curly Knot Today
- Cleanse hair in sections with Shea Moisture African Black Soap Deep Cleansing Shampoo
- Deep Condition with Shea Moisture African Black Soap Purification Masque for 30 minutes
- Finish with an Apple Cider Vinegar rinse (3 teaspoons of ACV to 1 cup of water)

Although the proof was in the pudding, I couldn't help but wonder if Aloe Vera is indeed as effective of a sealant as an oil. So I got to researching. Here are my findings:
- As a plant, Aloe Vera utilizes its own sealing properties. Once the outer leaves are harvested (i.e. cut off), the plant utilizes it's own sap contents to seal off the cut portion to prevent water loss. It is believed that those same ingredients are active when Aloe Vera is used as a sealant on hair.
- Aloe Vera contains polysaccharides (carbohydrate molecules), which leave behind a natural protective film when applied on skin (and therefore hair). Polysaccharides are also humectants, drawing moisture from the air. Quality Aloe Vera products contain 20-40% polysaccharides.
I'm excited about Aloe Vera's potential. Are you?
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Next morning hair. NO OIL! |
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A close-up. Shiny & weightless! |
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