Dandruff is a very common condition of the scalp that impacts several people across the globe. Some of its characteristics include white flakes of dead skin cells falling off one’s scalp and may be visible on the shoulders, hair, or clothing. Dandruff must be taken seriously since the condition can lead to irritation, itching, and embarrassment for those dealing with it.
What Are the Factors Causing Dandruff?
A number of factors can lead to dandruff, which are as follows:
Poor hygiene
Anxiety and stress
Dry skin
Fungal infection
Seborrheic dermatitis
Sensitivity to hair products
Yes, it is important to take appropriate measures to get rid of your dandruff at the earliest. There’s also no denying the various treatments and over-the-counter shampoos available for dandruff. However, when there are solid homemade remedies for dandruff, why resort to something else!
This article aims to shed light upon the top homemade remedies for dandruff that are going to stand you in very good stead.
Rest assured these homemade remedies for dandruff are backed by scientific evidence. However, it is always a good idea to consult your doctor before taking the plunge of trying any of the below-mentioned homemade remedies for dandruff, especially if you have a medical issue or allergy.
Here it goes:
Coconut oil: Coconut oil is one of the most effective homemade remedies for dandruff. Using coconut oil is one of the best ways to get rid of your dandruff naturally. It also helps by moisturizing the scalp, reducing inflammation, and preventing dryness. The oil works by helping fight the fungus that brings about dandruff. This can be attributed to its antimicrobial properties.
Directions for Use:
Massage gently as you apply the oil directly to your scalp. Let it rest for half-an-hour or 30 minutes, or leave it on overnight prior to washing it off with a mild shampoo.
To reap the extra benefits of the oil, add a few drops of lemon juice or tea tree oil to coconut oil. Repeat this two or three times a week, and see the difference for yourself in terms of the stark improvement that you’ll notice.
Tea Tree Oil: This essential oil dates back to centuries of being used for its anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, and anti-fungal properties. This makes it one of the most valuable homemade remedies for dandruff. As you use tea tree oil, it will help by killing the fungus that causes dandruff. In addition to that, it helps reduce the itching of the scalp and inflammation.
Applying tea tree oil to the skin is considered a far more effective measure than a prescription antifungal treatment. This makes it wise to use tea tree oil compared to something else.
It must be noted here that you carry out a patch test on a small area on your skin before applying it to the scalp to be on the safe side. This will help prevent any allergic reaction or irritation.
Directions for Use:
Create a mixture of 5-10 drops of tea tree oil and 2 tablespoons of olive or coconut oil. Massage this into your scalp. Leave it on for at least 20 minutes before washing it off with warm water. Do this once or twice a week.
Another simple way is to add the oil (a few drops of it) directly to your regular shampoo and rinse your hair like you usually do.
Apple Cider Vinegar: Using apple cider vinegar is another one of the most beneficial homemade remedies for dandruff. It basically is a fermented product made from yeast and apples. The way it helps to eliminate dandruff is by restoring the pH balance of the scalp, ridding you of dead skin cells and excess oil, and preventing the growth of fungus.
According to studies, those with alopecia can benefit immensely from using apple cider vinegar since it helps reduce itching of the scalp and improves hair quality.
Directions for Use:
Use equal parts of water and equal parts of apple cider vinegar to make a mixture, which then you spray on your hair and scalp. Massage it gently and let it rest for 15-20 minutes. Then wash it off with water or use your regular shampoo. Repeat this once or twice every week.
Aloe Vera: Of course, all of you have heard about this succulent plant that goes by the name aloe vera and is known for its soothing properties for an array of skin conditions. This is indeed an effective homemade remedy for dandruff that treats it by hydrating the scalp, inhibiting fungal growth, and reducing inflammation.
As per studies, the antifungal and antibacterial properties of aloe vera are known to shield you from dandruff.
How to Use:
You can purchase a product that has pure aloe vera gel or apply fresh gel extracted from an aloe vera leaf. Spread it over your scalp evenly and leave it on for 20 minutes. Then wash it off with your daily-use shampoo or with warm water. Carry this out once or twice a week until you see noticeable changes.
Baking Soda: You may be wondering how this common household ingredient can help you with your dandruff. But contrary to what you may think, baking soda is one of the most powerful homemade remedies for dandruff. In fact, many people around the world have benefitted immensely from using baking soda. It will help remove dandruff by exfoliating your scalp, removing dead skin cells and excess oil, and neutralizing your scalp’s pH. It will also help reduce scalp itching.
Directions for Use:
Scatter some baking soda on your palm. Rub this on your wet scalp and leave it for 5-10 minutes. Then shampoo your hair or wash it off with just water. Repeat this one or two times a week.
Yes, dandruff is a common skin condition. But it is also true that you can easily treat it with the aforementioned homemade remedies for dandruff. These remedies are not just gentler but also quite cost-effective. It won’t burn a hole in your pocket as compared to over-the-counter products.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Q) Is dandruff treatable with homemade remedies for dandruff?
Answer: Of course, it very much is. Some of the most helpful homemade remedies for dandruff include using tea tree oil, aloe vera, apple cider vinegar, coconut oil, and baking soda.
Q) Are there any side effects of using homemade remedies for dandruff?
Answer: There aren’t. However, it is advisable to consult a doctor or do a patch test before using any of the homemade remedies for dandruff if you are allergic or have sensitive skin or have a medical condition.
Q) Are homemade remedies for dandruff expensive?
Answer: In fact, homemade remedies for dandruff are the cheapest when compared to some of the over-the-counter products that may not be worth your penny down the line.
Q) Are homemade remedies for dandruff suitable for everyone?
Answer: Homemade remedies for dandruff may or may not work for you. The efficacy of the home remedies depends on certain factors like your hair type, the cause of your dandruff, your lifestyle, etc. This makes it important to figure out the right home remedy that will work best for you.
Q) How frequently should I use homemade remedies for dandruff?
Answer: This depends on the severity of your condition and your choice of remedy. Generally, once or twice a week is recommended until you notice an improvement in your symptoms. However, it is best to stop using the remedy if you notice redness, experience any irritation, etc.
Q) What about the safety of homemade remedies for dandruff?
Answer:Homemade remedies for dandruff are usually well-tolerated by most individuals. However, some individuals may be sensitive to certain ingredients or may experience allergic reactions like apple cider vinegar, tea tree oil, etc. Therefore, seeking advice from a healthcare provider is a good idea.
Q) When should I book a consultation with a doctor for dandruff?
Answer:
Your scalp is infected, bleeding, or inflamed.
Your symptoms are persistent or serious.
You have tried home remedies but in vain.
You are experiencing signs of an underlying condition like eczema.
Q) What are the other benefits of using homemade remedies for dandruff?
Answer: They are cheaper, safer, more effective, and more eco-friendly (since they do not pollute the water with chemicals or produce plastic waste).
Q) What other benefits can I gain from using homemade remedies for dandruff for my hair?
Answer:
It will add smoothness and shine to your hair.
Reduce frizz.
Improve the strength and elasticity of your hair.
Q) What are some other natural remedies that I can use for dandruff?
Answer:
Neem leaves
Fenugreek seeds
Olive oil
Lemon juice
Yoghurt
To sum everything up, homemade remedies for dandruff will not only help you get rid of the annoying flakes but also improve the overall quality and beauty of your hair. You will be at the receiving end of more hydrated, smooth, shiny, and strong hair. You will also save money and ensure the safety of the environment by steering clear of harsh chemicals. So trying these remedies is worth it!!
So what are you waiting for!!