Dandruff is a non contagious condition that causes the skin on the scalp to flake. It is not a very serious condition but it can cause social embarassment to people and hence they look for its remedies.
Dandruff can be cured with right natural remedies. Before looking at the remedies we should know the symptoms and causes of Dandruff so that we may be able to understand this condition well. Although Dandruff can be difficult to handle but it can be cured through natural remedies and right lifestyle. This article discusses ways to manage Dandruff in an efficient way through natural remedies.
Symptoms of Dandruff
1- Itchy scalp
2- Scaly crusty scalp
It is said that nearly 50% of the world's population will experience dandruff in their lifetime.
What is Dandruff?
Dandruff appears as white flakes that on the scalp and in hair, it is affects millions of people worldwide. Although Dandruff is not a very serious condition still it can be embarrassing and uncomfortable. Dandruff also causes itching.To get rid of Dandruff there are many natural remedies that can help you get rid of it.And have a healthier scalp.
What Causes Dandruff?
Before diving into natural remedies, it's essential to understand what causes dandruff. While the exact cause isn't fully understood, several factors are believed to contribute to its development:
Malassezia: This is a type of fungus that lives on the scalp of most adults. However, in some people, it can grow out of control, leading to irritation and flaking.
Dry Skin: Dry skin on the scalp can cause flakes that resemble dandruff. This is more common during the winter months when the air is dry.
Seborrheic Dermatitis: This is a common skin condition that causes red, itchy, and flaky skin. It can affect the scalp and other oily areas of the body.
Not Shampooing Enough: If you don't wash your hair regularly, oil and dead skin cells can build up on your scalp, leading to dandruff.
Natural Remedies for Dandruff:
While there are many over-the-counter shampoos and treatments available for dandruff, some people prefer to use natural remedies. Here are some options to consider:
Tea Tree Oil: Tea tree oil is very effective against the fungus that causes dandruff. You can also add a few drops of tea tree oil to your regular shampoo or dilute it with coconut oil and then massage it on your scalp.
Apple Cider Vinegar: Apple cider vinegar also has antibacterial and antifungal properties that can help restore reduce the dandruff. Mix equal parts of apple cider vinegar and Leave it on for a few minutes then wash it out completely.
Coconut Oil: Coconut oil is a popular natural remedy for dandruff because of its moisturizing properties. Massage warm coconut oil into your scalp and leave it on for at least half an hour before you shampoo your hair. For best results, repeat this process a few times in a week.Coconut oil can also be mixed with curd and used for better results.
Aloe Vera: Aloe vera is a very popular and widely used natural remedy to deal with skin dryness,ulcers and digestive problems. Aloe vera has soothing and moisturizing properties that can help relieve itching and reduce inflammation of scalp. Apply fresh aloe vera gel directly to your scalp and keep it for half an hour before rinsing it.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Adding foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, such as salmon, flaxseeds, and walnuts, to the diet are known to reduce inflammation and improve the overall health of your scalp.
Baking Soda: Baking soda is known to help in exfoliating the scalp and removing dead skin cells, reducing the appearance of dandruff. You have to take a tablespoon of baking soda and mix it with water to form a paste and massage it into your scalp.
Apply Mehndi : You must have applied mehndi to soften and bring volume to your hair , However people don't have this idea that Mehndi can also provide relief from dandruff. For using mehndi to cure your dandruff just follow these simple steps -
1) Make a paste of Henna and add lemon juice to it .You can also add curd and mix it well
2) After making the paste keep it aside for 8 hours.
3) Apply the paste on your scalp and leave for two hours.
4) Wash your hair well .
Olive Oil: Olive oil has amazing property which prevents dandruff and also makes your scalp healthy, just apply it like any other hair oil and massage well . Leave it overnight on your scalp and sleep with a bath cap on . The next morning when you shampoo your hair you'll get amazing results .Make it a part of your haircare routine and say goodbye to dandruff.
Adopting a healthy diet : Several observational studies have suggested that people who follow a healthy diet are likely to report less problems of dandruff as compared to those who follow a Western and Junk diet . "Biotin" commonly known as vitamin B7 ,has amazing impact on your skin , hair, and nails. Including biotin rich food in your diet can help reduce the risk of dandruff. Some of the .Biotin rich food items are- egg yolks,nuts,salmon,nutritional yeast
Adding Zinc supplements to your daily nutrition: Zinc promotes cell growth and strengthens the immune system. As per the study of NIH, Lack of Zinc in human body can be associated with several skin related problems, hair loss , impotence, diarrhea etc. Zinc deficiency is a contributing factor to seborrheic dermatitis and dandruff. You can get Zinc from nuts, animal protein, whole wheat as well as several Zinc drugs and supplements are available in the market.
Fenugreek Seeds : Soak some Fenugreek seeds in water and leave it overnight, make a paste of it the next morning and add a few drops of lemon juice to this paste. Massage softly on your scalp and leave for 30 minutes. Wash your hair and dry it . It also helps relieve the problem of scalp dryness and dandruff.
Last but not the least , Stress Management, is often an overlooked factor whole dealing with skin and hair related problems. Stress can cause blood pressure changes and hormonal disbalance which ultimately becomes a cause of several skin and hair related problems causing dandruff. So one must adopt a stress free or stress minimizing lifestyle in order to cope up with these.
Conclusion:
Dandruff can be a frustrating and embarrassing condition, but it's not something you have to live with. By understanding the underlying causes of dandruff and using natural remedies to treat it, you can achieve a healthier scalp and hair. However, if your dandruff persists or worsens despite trying these remedies, it's essential to consult a dermatologist for further evaluation and treatment.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Dandruff is a common scalp condition characterized by the presence of white flakes that shed from the scalp and can be visible on the hair and clothing.
1- What are the main causes of dandruff?
The main causes of dandruff include an overgrowth of the fungus Malassezia,a dry skin, seborrheic dermatitis, and not shampooing enough.
2- Are there different types of dandruff?
Yes While dandruff is commonly associated with flaking of the scalp, there are different types of dandruff including dry scalp dandruff, oily scalp dandruff, and dandruff caused by underlying skin conditions such as psoriasis or eczema.
3- How to tell if I have dandruff or just a dry scalp?
The main difference between two is that Dandruff is often accompanied by itching, whereas a dry scalp may not necessarily itch. Also the dandruff flakes are usually larger and more oily as compared to the smaller, drier flakes associated with dry scalp.
4- Are there any lifestyle factors which contribute to dandruff?
Yes, many lifestyle factors such as stress, poor diet, not regular shampooing, and using harsh hair products can contribute to the development or worsening of dandruff.
5- What are the common symptoms of dandruff?
The Common symptoms of dandruff include itching, flaking of the scalp, redness, and irritation.
6- How often should one shampoo his hair to prevent dandruff?
It is recommended by experts to shampoo your hair at least two to three times a week to prevent the buildup of oil and dead skin cells on the scalp.
7- Which natural remedies are effective for dandruff treatment?
Natural remedies such as tea tree oil, apple cider vinegar, coconut oil, aloe vera, omega-3 fatty acids, and baking soda can help you get rid of dandruff and promote a healthier scalp.
8- Are there any specific foods or supplements that help reduce dandruff?
Yes the Foods which are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, zinc, and vitamin B may help improve the health of the scalp and reduce dandruff. Examples include fatty fish, nuts, seeds, and whole grains.
9)When should I see a doctor or dermatologist about my dandruff?
If dandruff persists despite trying over-the-counter remedies or if it's accompanied by severe itching, inflammation, or hair loss, it's advisable to consult a doctor or dermatologist for further evaluation and treatment option.
10) Is dandruff a fungus or bacteria?
Dandruff is caused by a fungus known as ‘Malasezzia’ which exist on most of the adult's scalp.
11) Is there any way to get rid of dandruff for a lifetime?
Dandruff is normally a chronic condition which can't be treated permanently by a single remedy, however it can be avoided by regularly using dandruff control techniques naturally in the form of home remedies, using dandruff control shampoo and haircare products.
12) Does drinking less water cause dandruff?
Drinking adequate amount of water is necessary to keep your scalp and hair hydrated thus preventing itchiness,dryness and dandruff.