Aloe Vera and Dandruff

Aloe vera for a calm scalp and nourished skin

We love Aloe Vera at Hairetic, it is a non-offensive, non-irritating ingredient that offers so many benefits to the skin and hair. Aloe vera is a well-known plant with a long history of medicinal use, dating back thousands of years. It is renowned for its soothing and healing properties, making it a popular ingredient in skincare and haircare products, including those designed to treat dandruff.

What is Aloe Vera?

Aloe vera is a succulent plant species that grows in tropical climates. It has thick, fleshy leaves that contain a clear gel‑like substance, which is rich in vitamins, minerals, amino acids, and antioxidants. Aloe vera has been used for centuries in traditional medicine to treat various skin and scalp conditions due to its moisturizing, anti‑inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties.

It is often kept as a house plant, or in the corner of the office as they don't need much water and don't die as quickly as most of our other plants.

 

How Does Aloe Vera Work for Dandruff?

Aloe vera exerts its therapeutic effects on dandruff through multiple mechanisms:

  1. Moisturising: Aloe vera contains polysaccharides that help hydrate and soothe the scalp, reducing dryness and itchiness associated with dandruff.
  2. Anti-inflammatory: Aloe vera contains compounds such as acemannan that have anti‑inflammatory properties, helping to calm irritation and redness on the scalp.
  3. Antimicrobial: Aloe vera contains compounds like aloin and emodin, which have antimicrobial properties that can help inhibit the growth of fungi and bacteria on the scalp, including those responsible for dandruff. One study demonstrated Aloe vera extract inhibited *Malassezia* (a dandruff-causing fungus) growth in vitro (Fozouni et al., 2018)

Benefits of Aloe Vera for Dandruff

  • Soothing Relief: Aloe vera provides soothing relief from itching and irritation associated with dandruff, helping to improve scalp comfort.
  • Hydration: Aloe vera helps moisturize the scalp, reducing dryness and flakiness, and promoting a healthier scalp environment.
  • Antifungal Properties: The antimicrobial properties of aloe vera help control the growth of fungi on the scalp, addressing the root cause of dandruff. Clinical trials have shown Aloe vera emulsions significantly reduced symptoms of seborrheic dermatitis compared to placebo (J Dermatol Treat. 1999)

How to Use Aloe Vera for Dandruff Treatment

  • Aloe Vera Gel: Apply pure aloe vera gel directly to the scalp and leave it on for 30 minutes to an hour before rinsing with lukewarm water. Repeat 2–3 times per week.
  • Aloe Vera Shampoo: Look for shampoos containing aloe vera as one of the main ingredients. Use regularly as part of your haircare routine to help manage dandruff.

Potential Side Effects

Aloe vera is generally safe for most people when used topically. It is very rare to have a reaction to the ingredient, and it is edible (although don’t eat a shampoo with it in). Oral ingestion can cause digestive issues (source).

Should Aloe Vera be in Shampoo?

Yes – Aloe Vera offers a natural and effective option for dandruff treatment, thanks to its moisturizing, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties. Whether used in gel form or incorporated into shampoos, aloe vera can provide soothing relief from itching and irritation while promoting a healthier scalp environment.

List of Clinical Studies on Aloe Vera for Dandruff Treatment

  1. Efficacy of Aloe Vera Gel in the Treatment of Seborrheic Dermatitis: A placebo‑controlled trial showed significant symptom reduction with Aloe vera emulsions (J Dermatol Treat. 1999)
  2. Comparative study of aloe vera and ketoconazole shampoo: Found Aloe vera was as effective as 2% ketoconazole in dandruff treatment, with fewer side effects (PMC Short Review, 2010)
  3. A randomized, placebo‑controlled trial of aloe vera lotion: Significant reduction in itching and irritation was observed (J Drugs Dermatol, 1999)

Other Benefits of Aloe (Not Just Dandruff)

Clinical trials show aloe benefits for wound healing, skin burns, and inflammation. Its anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and moisturizing actions make it a “wonder plant” across hair & skincare.