Last Updated on September 26, 2023 by Aditi Gangal
Quick Take
An Instagram post recommends massaging the scalp with coconut oil and aloe vera gel before bathing to get long, voluminous and lustrous hair. We fact-checked and found the claim to be half true.
The Claim
An Instagram post reads, “EXTREME HAIR GROWTH DIY. Massage your scalp with a mix of coconut oil & Aloevera Gel for 30 minutes before bathing. It helps you in getting long voluminous lustrous hair naturally”.
Fact Check
Is coconut oil good for hair?
To a certain extent. A study has shown that coconut oil can reduce protein loss because it can easily penetrate inside the hair shaft. Similarly, a study explains that coconut oil remains on the scalp to mask the cuticles and give an oily as well as heavy look to the hair. On the other hand a study has shown that coconut oil can influence microbes of the scalp and their functions. This means excessive oiling can cause dandruff or produce sebum on the scalp to make hair look flat. In the same manner, another study shows that if the oil is not properly washed out from the hair, it can cause severe damage to the scalp and strands.
Is aloe vera good for hair?
Yes. A study has shown that aloe vera can prevent hair loss, reduce dandruff and protect the scalp from infection. Another study has shown that aloe vera contains vitamin A, C, E, B12 and folic acid that promotes healthy cell growth and prevents hair from falling out.
Can massaging coconut oil and aloe vera gel make hair long, voluminous and lustrous?
To a certain extent. Do-It-Yourself (DIY) hair masks like mixing coconut oil and aloe vera gel can make hair look voluminous and lustrous if applied less than often. But scant evidence that these home remedies can drastically improve hair growth and structure.
Likewise, there is scant scientific evidence to prove coconut oil and aloe vera gel makes hair grow long.
A massage can be very soothing and relaxing as it can boost scalp microcirculation. Both coconut oil and aloe vera have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties that can promote good health to the scalp. Moreover, with the ability of coconut oil to reduce protein loss and aloe vera having many nutrients, a massage can be beneficial.
What affects hair growth in humans?
Hair growth is a natural process and is dependent on genes. Genetics decides the length, thickness and colour. Hair growth takes place in the anagen phase of the hair growth cycle. Genes decide the duration of anagen phase. A study (2010) published in ScienceDaily has shown that Lhx2 gene influences hair growth in humans.
Another study has shown that hair usually grows almost 0.3mm per day but a person must not be suffering from any medical condition like alopecia, telogen effluvium etc.
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