Using Aloe Vera Gel Base on Hair and in Formulations

Asked by: deelkung On: November 30, 2015 Product Type: Cosmetics Answered

Question

Regarding the product Aloe Vera Gel Base:

  1. Can this product be used on hair?
  2. If used on hair, does it help make the formula easier to wash out? What is the recommended usage rate for hair application?
  3. Can this base be mixed with formulations containing Petrolatum and oils? If so, what is the recommended maximum percentage of oil?
  4. Can this base be exposed to heat during formulation?
  5. Does this base already contain a preservative?
  6. What is the difference between the Heavy and Lite versions of this base?

Answer

Using Aloe Vera Gel in Formulations

Based on your questions and the previous responses:

  • Mixing with Petrolatum and Oil: Yes, you can mix Aloe Vera Gel with formulas containing Petrolatum and oils. The Aloe Vera Gel can help incorporate the oil into the gel structure. However, the oil content should ideally not exceed 15% to minimize the chance of separation, though this can vary depending on the specific type of oil used.
  • Heat Exposure: Aloe Vera Gel can be exposed to heat, but it is generally best to avoid prolonged exposure to high temperatures if possible, as the beneficial properties of the aloe vera extract within the gel may degrade over time with excessive heat.
  • Preservative: The Aloe Vera Gel bases already contain a preservative (Phenoxyethanol), so you do not need to add an additional preservative to the formula itself when using these bases.

Using Aloe Vera Gel on Hair

  • Can it be used on hair? Yes, Aloe Vera Gel can be used on hair.
  • Does it help with washability? As Aloe Vera Gel is a water-based gel, it is generally easy to wash out with water.
  • Recommended Usage Rate: A specific recommended usage rate for hair applications is not provided in the product information. When mixing with oils, the previous advice was to keep the oil content below 15%. For general hair use, you might start with a low percentage and adjust based on the desired feel and performance.
  • Difference between the two types:
    • Aloe Vera Gel (Heavy) leaves a slightly heavier feeling on the skin after absorption.
    • Aloe Vera Gel (Lite) is extra light, absorbs quickly, is not sticky, and leaves a soft and smooth feeling on the skin after absorption. The Lite version also lists some incompatible substances (such as various types of Hyaluronic Acid, Xanthan Gum, and other gel/cream makers) that are not listed for the Heavy version.

Both types contain 30% equivalent of Aloe Vera extract, Vitamin B5, Allantoin, and a preservative. The choice between the two depends on the desired texture and feel of your final product.

Answer Update
Updated Review: May 2026

This section was added after reviewing the original answer against current product availability and formulation knowledge at the stated point in time.

2026-05-17 Update

Current Formulation & Storage Guidelines

Based on current product specifications as of May 2026, please note the following updated guidance for these bases:

  • Storage Requirements: To maintain the stability and efficacy of the active extracts, Aloe Vera Gel (Heavy) must be stored refrigerated. In contrast, Aloe Vera Gel (Lite) is stable at room temperature, provided it is kept away from direct light.
  • Compatibility Alerts (Lite Version): If you are using Aloe Vera Gel (Lite), it is critical to avoid mixing it with any form of Hyaluronic Acid (including Nano or Standard types), Xanthan Gum, or additional Gel/Cream makers. These substances are incompatible with the specific polymer structure of the Lite base and may cause the formula to collapse or become unstable.
  • Oil Incorporation: The recommendation to limit oil or petrolatum to 15% remains the standard for maintaining a stable, clear gel structure without the need for additional emulsifiers. If your formula requires a higher oil content, a dedicated emulsifier or "Cream Maker" should be used instead of these gel bases.
  • Preservation: Both bases continue to be pre-preserved with Phenoxyethanol. If you add a significant amount of water or botanical extracts (more than 10% of the total formula), it is recommended to add a small amount of additional broad-spectrum preservative to ensure long-term safety.

Tags

Gel Hair Treatment Oil Compatibility Texture Washability