Use Aloe Vera Gel for Healthier, Better Looking Dreadlocks

Using Aloe Vera for Healthier, Better Looking Dreadlocks

Aloe vera has long been used topically for its soothing and moisturizing properties. The clear gel from the aloe plant contains various vitamins, minerals and antioxidants that can benefit skin and hair health. For those with dreadlocks, regularly applying aloe vera can help improve the overall condition and appearance of this unique hairstyle.

In this comprehensive guide, well explore the advantages of using aloe vera for dreadlocks. Well also cover how to properly prepare and apply aloe to your locs for best results.

The Benefits of Aloe Vera for Dreadlocks

Here are some of the top ways that aloe vera can improve dreadlocked hair:

• Adds moisture - hydrates and softens hair
• Reduces frizz & puffiness - defines locs
• Minimizes dandruff & itching
• Soothes irritation
• Prevents breakage & shedding
• Stimulates hair growth
• Antibacterial properties
• Leaves no buildup

Aloe contains over 75 active compounds including vitamins, enzymes, minerals, sugars, lignin, saponins, salicylic acids and amino acids. These components work together to provide aloe's hair-enhancing effects.

Moisturizing Dry Dreadlocks

The biggest benefit of aloe for locs is moisturization. The mucopolysaccharides in aloe help it absorb into and deeply hydrate hair. This prevents dryness which causes breakage and frizz.

Dreadlocks are prone to becoming very dry and brittle. Regular moisturizing is key to maintaining healthy locs. The moisturizing properties of aloe vera make it an ideal natural product for keeping your locks conditioned.

Reducing Dreadlock Frizz

Aloe vera can help smooth down frizzy flyaway hairs that give dreads a fuzzy unkempt look. The amino acids and polysaccharides in aloe help weigh down and define the locs.

Applying aloe gel will help neaten frizzy dreadlocks and give them a sleek, put-together appearance. It helps control stray hairs and gives your locs a polished look.

Soothing Irritation on the Scalp

The enzymes in aloe vera have anti-inflammatory effects that help soothe irritation and itching on the scalp. This helps provide relief if your dreadlocks or the loops where they connect to the scalp become irritated.

Aloe also creates a protective barrier on the skin that can shield sensitive scalp areas. Its cooling effect brings additional relief from inflammation and discomfort.

Combating Dandruff in Dreadlocks

Dandruff is a common issue for people with dreadlocks. The friction and lack of washing can cause excess flakes and itchiness. Applying aloe vera can help minimize dandruff and associated irritation.

Research indicates aloe vera has anti-fungal properties that may inhibit the fungal growth involved in dandruff. The amino acids also help soften and loosen flakes to reduce itching.

Stimulating Hair Growth

Some early research suggests aloe vera contains compounds that may stimulate hair growth. The enzymes interact with the scalp to improve circulation and deliver nutrients to follicles.

While not proven, some people report noticing faster dreadlock growth after regular use of aloe vera. This potential growth benefit is likely due to enhanced circulation rather than a direct impact on follicles.

Preventing Dreadlock Breakage

The vitamins and minerals in aloe vera support stronger, healthier hair that's less prone to breakage and shedding. Zinc and vitamins A, C and E help reinforce the hair cuticle to avoid environmental damage.

By keeping dreadlocks conditioned and minimizing frizz, aloe helps reduce friction and tangling that causes hair to break off. Your dreads will stay thicker and fuller looking.

Keeping Dreadlocks Clean

Research shows aloe vera leaf extract has antimicrobial and antifungal abilities. Applying aloe gel may help fight bacteria and fungi that can build up on the scalp and lead to irritation and dandruff.

While not a deep cleaning solution, the antibacterial elements in aloe offer benefits over water alone for keeping dreadlocks fresh between washes.

How to Apply Aloe Vera Gel to Your Dreadlocks

Using aloe vera on your dreadlocks is simple. Follow these steps:

Obtain Fresh Aloe Vera Gel

Look for pure, 100% stabilized aloe vera gel. The best is directly from an aloe leaf, but a high-quality bottled gel works too. Avoid products with added chemicals.

Section Your Hair

Work in sections to thoroughly coat all your dreadlocks' surfaces with gel. Use clips to separate sections of your hair while applying.

Massage Gel into Roots

Scoop up a generous amount of gel with your fingers. Massage it into your scalp and roots where the dreads attach. Fully saturate each section.

Smooth Over Entire Dreadlock

After massaging into roots, smooth aloe gel down the entire length of each dreadlock, covering all sides. Apply more gel if needed to fully coat.

Let It Soak In

Once all sections are coated in gel, let it soak in for 10-20 minutes before rinsing. For added benefits, wrap hair in a towel or shower cap.

Rinse Out Aloe Residue

Rinse with warm water and gently massaging with fingers until water runs clear. Avoid harsh scrubbing which can unravel forming dreadlocks.

Repeat Regularly

Use aloe gel on your dreadlocks 1-2 times per week for best moisturizing and conditioning results. Adjust frequency as needed.

What to Look for When Buying Aloe Vera Gel

Check product labels closely when purchasing aloe gel for dreads. Look for:

• 100% pure stabilized aloe vera - no added thickeners or fillers
• No alcohol - can dry out hair
• No fragrance - prevents irritation and buildup
• Preservative free - higher quality aloe
• Cold pressed processing - preserves nutrients

Avoid aloe gels with artificial colors, fragrances and chemical preservatives. They can cause buildup on dreadlocks. Unscented, additive-free gels provide the highest quality aloe.

Organic Aloe Vera Gel

For the purest aloe vera, look for products certified organic. Organic gels come straight from the aloe plant without synthetic additives or processing methods.

Organic aloe retains the maximum amount of nutrients, enzymes, amino acids and polysaccharides that benefit the hair.

Whole Leaf vs Inner Leaf Gel

Whole leaf gels utilize crushed aloe leaves. Inner leaf gels use just the inner leaf pulp. Whole leaf products contain more nutrients and enzymes but have a grittier texture.

Inner leaf aloe gels are smoother and easier to apply but have lower concentrations of some hair healthy compounds. Test different versions to find your preference.

Other Natural Oils and Butters to Use with Aloe

For extra conditioning power, blend aloe vera with other beneficial natural ingredients like:

• Coconut oil - penetrates hair shaft for deep moisture
• Argan oil - softens and adds shine
• Castor oil - thickens and strengthens locks
• Shea butter - smooths and protects hair
• Olive oil - conditions, adds luster

Create your own custom conditioning and styling product by mixing aloe gel with any combination of these oils. Add a few drops of your favorite essential oil for a pleasant fragrance.

Finding the Right Mix

Experiment to find your own perfect aloe vera dreadlock conditioning recipe. Consider:

• Use more aloe gel for wetter, slicker mixes
• Add more butter/oil for richer, drier blends
• Adjust ingredients based on your hair's needs
• Make changes if mix seems too greasy or powdery

Record your blend recipes so you can replicate ones that work best for your dreadlocks. Customize as needed for seasonal changes.

How Often to Use Aloe Vera on Dreadlocks

Consistency is key to seeing results from aloe vera gel. Here are general guidelines on frequency:

• 2 times per week for maintenance
• 3-4 times per week for very dry or damaged locks
• 1 time per week for fine hair that gets greasy
• Daily for intensive treatment of extreme dryness

Monitor your hair's condition and adjust your aloe vera regimen accordingly. Decrease frequency if hair becomes overly greasy or limp. Increase if locks are excessively dry or frizzy.

Using Aloe Vera After Washing Dreadlocks

Washing loosens dirt and buildup but also strips away natural oils. Applying aloe vera gel immediately after drying freshly washed locks helps restore moisture.

Use aloe to help smooth and shape dreads after washing. Let hair fully dry before tying covers back on.

Using Before Bed for Overnight Treatment

Applying aloe gel right before bed allows your hair to fully absorb its benefits overnight without being rinsed out or rubbed off.

Cover hair in a shower cap after applying aloe to intensify the conditioning effects. Rinse out in the morning.

Precautions When Using Aloe Vera on Dreadlocks

Before using aloe vera gel on your locks, keep these safety tips in mind:

• Do a patch test for allergic reactions first
• Avoid applying near scalp if you have cuts or wounds
• Dilute with water if pure aloe irritates your skin
• Rinse out completely to prevent residue buildup
• Avoid using before swimming or entering water

Allergic reactions to topical aloe vera are uncommon. But do a skin patch test before wide application just to be safe.

Take care when applying aloe gel around the hairline if you have any cuts or abrasions on your scalp. The juices can seep into wounds causing burning and irritation.

Properly rinsing out all aloe residue after application prevents product buildup on your dreadlocks over time.

The Bottom Line on Using Aloe for Dreadlocks

Aloe vera offers many benefits for improving the health, look and feel of dreadlocked hair. Its ability to deeply moisturize and soften hair makes it a perfect natural option for conditioning and frizz control.

Using pure stabilized aloe gel regularly can help your dreadlocks stay clean, moisturized and frizz-free. Just be sure to dilute or rinse completely to prevent buildup. Your locs will feel smooth and look well-maintained.

Incorporating aloe into your dreadlock care regimen helps keep your unique hairstyle looking its absolute best.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.