Aloe Vera - Coconut Oil Hair Mask with Step-by-Step Pictures

Previously we had discussed about the benefit of aloe vera application on skin. Today, I am writing about how to make a hair mask out of aloe vera and coconut oil. This hair mask is a great way to get rid of dandruff, itchy and dry scalp and dry hair. Aloe vera has anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties. Thus, it leaves hair clean and fresh after the wash. Shampooing tends to leave the hair dry. This hair mask would ensure that your hair are adequately moisturized.
Aloe vera also helps control hair fall. I have experienced the change over a span of a few months. I apply this hair mask twice or thrice a week prior to shampooing. However, you can use it once a week or twice a month, depending upon the suitability. Usually, aloe vera suits almost everyone's hair and skin. However, it might not suit some people, which is very rare. So, use this hair mask if you think aloe vera suits you. For first timers, I suggest you do a patch test before going for full application.
So, let us see how to make this hair mask.
I used a medium-sized stem, since I have thick longer hair. Not waist-long, but a bit longer than the shoulder length. You may take a small stem or half a stem if you have short hair. You may use a bigger stem or 2 medium-sized stems in order to extract sufficient juice.

1. Clean the stem by washing it with water. Wipe it with a cloth. Cleaning the stem with water would remove the traces of dirt and soil on its surface.

2. Take a sharp knife and remove the thorns by lightly brushing the edge of knife along the edge of the stem.Removing thorns would help prevent pricking of hands.

3. Now, using the knife peel of the aloe vera stem. You have to actually slice of the skin in a way that you do not waste the flesh inside the stem. Only the skin should come off.
4. The next step is to remove the flesh into a bowl or onto a plate. You may do so by using your fingers or knife. The flesh is soft and gooey and will come off easily. It is fine if some green part of the stem comes out with the gel extract.

5. Now, mix equal quantity (by volume) of coconut oil in the aloe vera extract.
6. Blend it well using your fingers. This is a little messy but totally worth it!
Lightly massaging your scalp and hair using this mixture. The hair should be covered from roots to tip. When I applied it on to my hair, I left my hair untied. The mixture doesn't drip. It sticks to your hair. It felt like I have applied just oil to my hair. It doesn't look or feel anything unusual.
Keep the mask on for 30 minutes or so and wash off with lukewarm water and a mild shampoo. I do not need to use any conditioner because this mask leaves my hair feeling soft, silky and hydrated. 
I hope this was helpful. I will surely try to keep coming up with such simple home-made stuff. For more, stay tuned. :)