Common Ways to Get Rid of Dandruff Naturally
Dandruff is a skin condition that affects the scalp, causing itchy, flaking skin and greasy patches. It’s a problem that most of us have encountered once in our lives, and this is something which can put you in a really embarrassing situation.
Small white flakes shedding from your scalp can happen due to many reasons such as dry scalp, fungal infection, poor diet or even stress.
There are various shampoos and hair care products in the market that claim to reduce or prevent dandruff, but we all know that these can be strong and harmful for the hair in the longer run.
Causes of dandruff include:
- Seborrheic dermatitis
- Dry skin
- Allergic reactions to hair and skin products
- Other skin conditions, such as eczema or psoriasis
- Diet
- Overgrowth of a yeast-like fungus called Malassezia
There are many over-the-counter (OTC) topical medications and special shampoos that treat dandruff. However, people can also help eliminate dandruff at home using the natural remedies below.
Kitchen remedies for dandruff which can help you to get strong, shiny and dandruff-free hair:
1. Coconut Oil
This easily available natural ingredient is helpful in reducing dandruff as it has antifungal properties. This magic ingredient can also help to add some shine and make your mane look silky and shiny.
Give yourself a nice head massage every weekend for a while to get rid of dandruff. You can also add this step to your self-care routine as it also helps with relieving the stress.
2. Tea Tree Oil
Tea tree oil is an essential oil that comes from the Melaleuca alternifolia plant. Historically, people have used tea tree oil to treat a variety of conditions, such as acne, athlete’s foot, and dermatitis.
Tea tree oils containing high concentrations of terpinen-4-ol may help reduce dandruff by suppressing the growth of fungi and bacteria on the scalp.
Applying tea tree oil directly on the scalp can cause inflammation or rashes, so people interested in using tea tree oil to treat dandruff can start by adding a few drops to their regular shampoo.
Alternatively, shampoos containing tea tree oil are available in some drug stores
3. Lemon Juice
The acids present in lemon juice are mild and can be helpful in breaking down the dandruff-causing fungus. As lemon is acidic in nature, it also helps to restore the healthy pH level of your scalp. Cherry on top, this remedy is easy-peasy, lemon squeezy to follow.
Dilute 1 tablespoon of lemon juice into a cup of water and use this mixture to rinse your hair. If used regularly, this remedy can help you get rid of dandruff easily while making your hair smell fresh and citrus.
4. Lemongrass Oil
Traditionally, people have used lemongrass and lemongrass oil to treat digestive issues, lower blood pressure, and reduce stress.
Lemongrass oil has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties that may help reduce dandruff symptoms.
Like tea tree oil, lemongrass oil may cause irritation or allergic reactions if a person applies it directly to the skin. People can dilute lemongrass oil with water or mix a few drops into their regular shampoo or conditioner.
5. Curd or Yogurt
Curd has the properties to nourish and moisturize your hair and hence can combat dry scalp. Not just this but as curd contains protein as well, it also helps in strengthening your hair and makes it stronger.
Take a few tablespoons of curd and whisk it a little to make it smooth. Apply it on your scalp with your fingers or cotton. Keep it on for an hour and wash it off using mild shampoo. Voila! Reduced dandruff accompanied by soft and moisturized hair.
6. Aloe Vera Gel
Aloe vera is a succulent plant known for its healing properties. The gel in its leaves contains several bioactive compounds, such as amino acids and antioxidants, that may reduce dandruff.
Aloe vera gel may improve moisture retention in the skin and promote wound healing. Aloe vera may also reduce inflammation, which can help people with dandruff symptoms, such as itchiness.
7. Apple Cider Vinegar
ACD or Apple Cider Vinegar has gained a lot of popularities due to the numerous health benefits it provides. With its bacteria-killing properties, ACD can help you get rid of itchiness and dandruff just after a few applications.
Take half a cup of ACD and half a cup of water and mix these two together. Replace your regular shampoo with this mixture, and you will see visible results just after a few washes. Make sure that you do not overuse this magical ingredient and dilute it well before use.
8 Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Omega-3 fatty acids may lower blood pressure, increase “good” HDL cholesterol levels, and support heart and brain health. A deficiency in this fatty acid can result in adverse symptoms, such as dandruff, brittle nails, and dry skin.
Omega-3s provide several skin benefits, such as:
- Managing oil production
- Regulating inflammation
- Improving hydration
- Reducing signs of aging
Foods containing large quantities of omega-3s include salmon, mackerel, and walnuts. People can also take omega-3 supplements.
9. Onion
The element which makes our tears roll down while cooking can be very helpful in fighting dandruff. As it is an antifungal agent, it is capable of killing the dandruff-causing fungus in our scalp.
Grate an onion and squeeze it using a strainer to extract all the juice in it. Now apply this juice on your scalp using some cotton and leave it for an hour. Wash it off with your regular shampoo and repeat this remedy once a week to see visible results.
10. Aspirin
Aspirin is an OTC pain reliever that could potentially reduce dandruff symptoms. It contains salicylic acid, an active ingredient commonly used in dandruff shampoos.
Salicylic acid can help exfoliate excess dandruff flakes, prevent oil buildup, and reduce inflammation on the scalp.
To use salicylic acid on dandruff, try crushing one or two uncoated aspirin tablets into a fine powder and mixing the power with a dollop of regular shampoo.
In the shower, apply the mixture to the hair and leave it there for a few minutes before rinsing it out.
11. Garlic
This pungent-smelling ingredient can actually be very helpful when we talk about eliminating dandruff. This natural kitchen ingredient is immensely beneficial due to its antifungal properties and has the power to kill the dandruff-causing bacteria.
Crush 2-3 garlic cloves and dilute them in a cup of water. Rinse your scalp with this garlic water to get some quick and effective results. For fixing the strong garlic smell, you can always add some honey to this mixture.
12. Baking soda
Sodium bicarbonate, which many people know as baking soda, may help reduce dandruff. It is an exfoliant that can remove excess skin cells and oil on the scalp.
Baking soda also possesses antifungal properties that may help fight the fungus responsible for dandruff.
Baking soda has a very high pH level, which can damage the scalp if a person uses it too frequently. Using too much baking soda can strip the hair of its natural oils, which can cause dryness or irritation, so people should use it in moderation.
13. Banana
Have you ever thought that your post-workout snack can actually have some beauty benefits as well? Well, this yummy and healthy fruit can actually help you to have a dandruff-free and healthy scalp due to its antimicrobial properties.
Mash a ripe banana and mix it well with an egg. Apply this hair mask for 60-30 minutes and wash off with mild shampoo. This hair pack is not just effective in fighting dandruff but can also make your hair soft and shiny.
14. Zinc
Zinc is a mineral that supports the body’s immune system and promotes cell growth. People can get zinc from animal proteins, nuts, and whole grains.
Many dandruff shampoos contain zinc pyrithione because it prevents fungal growth and removes excess skin cells from the scalp.
15. Egg
Egg is rich in protein and vitamins. It can be used to treat a dry scalp with its moisturising properties. Apart from providing moisture to your hair, eggs can also be helpful in the growth of new and healthy hair.
Take an egg yolk and squeeze half a lemon in it. Whisk it well and apply this mixture on your hair with the help of cotton. Let it sit for a while and rinse it with your regular shampoo.
Summary
Dandruff is a skin condition that causes itchy, flaky skin on the scalp. This condition can impact a person’s self-esteem and overall quality of life.
While few research studies have specifically examined the effects of natural remedies for dandruff, many of these remedies have positive anecdotal evidence.
Not all home remedies will work for everyone. Anyone with an underlying skin condition, such as eczema or psoriasis, may wish to speak to a doctor before trying a new natural remedy.