I present to you a surprising plant, one of a kind. Another marvel offered by nature: ALOE VERA, or Aloe.
Why is this ancient plant used in cosmetics? What are its benefits for our curls?
Discover its famous virtues, how to use it and how to preserve it!
A bit of history
For thousands of years, in many parts of the world, Aloe has been used to relieve various ailments. Widespread in Africa (in Egypt, Aloe is nicknamed the "plant of immortality"), in India, in China, where Aloe gel appears in books of traditional medicine, and in America, it was introduced to Europe, mainly in regions with warm climates. Christopher Columbus wrote: "Four plants are indispensable to the life of Man: wheat, the vine, the olive tree, and the aloe. The first nourishes you, the second cheers you, the third harmonizes you, and the fourth heals you."
This medicinal plant is also used in cosmetology for its extraordinary moisturizing and healing properties. Different civilizations have been able to exploit the best of this plant and pass on their knowledge about all its benefits.
Composition
Why does aloe vera have so many benefits? Thanks to its very rich composition and gel-like consistency! Its leaves contain a gel composed of 98% water and 2% active ingredients. These two small percentages combine 200 valuable active substances: 12 vitamins, 20 minerals, 18 amino acids, enzymes, essential fatty acids, antioxidants, fiber… And many more! Each of these components has a beneficial effect on our body: from the roots of the hair to the tips of the toes, including all the internal organs!
The composition of Aloe explains its many qualities: moisturizing, soothing, softening, healing, restorative, it also acts on the digestive system, inflammations and natural defenses.
Benefits for our curls
But it's the curls we're interested in! Here are all the benefits this "simple" gel provides:
Aloe Vera to soothe and purify the scalp : Aloe Vera regulates sebum secretion, fights dandruff, itching and irritation. The gel deeply nourishes the scalp and stimulates blood circulation , which activates growth . Aloe Vera is suitable for both dry and oily scalps.
Aloe Vera to moisturize and protect hair : our curls need hydration. Aloe Vera takes care of it! Thanks to its water-rich composition, it prevents dryness and repairs lengths . Applied to wet hair, the gel will retain water at the heart of the hair fiber.
Aloe Vera for shiny, detangled curls : the regenerative qualities of Aloe Vera revive the hair's shine . Combined with hydration, this restores its suppleness and makes detangling easier. Curls regain their tone, bounce and shine .
Aloe Vera to strengthen : Aloe Vera will strengthen the hair (slowing down oxidation by reducing amino acids in the scalp), which will limit the risk of breakage and hair loss. Your hair will be stronger and more supple!
Aloe Vera for hair growth : rich in vitamins and trace elements, the gel activates blood circulation in the scalp and helps hair grow faster.
Aloe Vera to define curls : Aloe Vera is an excellent moisturizing base for all hair types. Its texture provides lightweight definition and doesn't weigh down the hair fiber. For stronger definition, you can use a styling cream before the gel for more definition.
Aloe Vera to reduce frizz: By forming a protective film on your curls, Aloe Vera fights external aggressions and promotes better moisture retention in the hair. Coated, curls appear more defined.
How to use it
Aloe Vera offers a variety of possibilities:
The easiest way to use Aloe Vera is to take a leaf, cut it into pieces, peel a piece, removing its green husk, and apply the pulp directly to your hair or skin. The leaf can be stored for a week, well wrapped, in the refrigerator.
You can also make your own gel:
- Disinfect all utensils used.
- Cut the leaves at the base of the plant (this is the side that is not pointed).
- Place the leaves upright on a plate for 10 minutes to remove the resin (the yellow-orange liquid that is slightly irritating to the skin.)
- Cut the leaves into pieces, remove the edges (where there are spikes). Cut the pieces into two parts by cutting through the thickness.
- Remove all the pulp inside with a spoon and blend it.
- Filter the resulting mixture.
Your gel is ready. Keep in the refrigerator for one week. You can add a natural preservative, Cosgard (19 drops per 100g), for a one-month shelf life.
The preparation is very fragile and susceptible to the growth of microbes. If you notice a change in color, texture, or odor, it is best to discard it.
We also offer Aloe Vera gel from Centiofolia or WAAM
You can add it to all your homemade mask, shampoo or styling cream preparations.
As a moisturizing mask Before or after shampooing: Before shampooing, apply the gel from scalp to ends to moisturize and protect curls.
Or after shampooing on damp hair apply all over the hair.
As a scalp care product : Gently massage your scalp with the pulp directly or the gel. Leave on for 30 minutes, 1 hour or overnight and rinse or not!
As a styling gel : apply to wet hair alone or after your styling cream and scruncher.
You can also use it between routines to refresh your curls. Dampen your curls and apply a small amount.
Normally you have all the information you need to get started with this preparation, it's simple and so effective!
Please feel free to share your ideas, recipes and experiences with us (if they are good!)
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