We have been told to use special shampoos and conditioners to tame our hair for years. Well, what about our scalp asking us for dandruff treatment at home? For many of us, the dry patches on the back or front of our heads are a constant irritation that leads to bad hair days. It’s a fact! 90% of men suffer from dandruff and dry scalp at some point. According to past research, dandruff affects approximately 50 percent of the general adult population worldwide. Dandruff is more prevalent in males than females (source: NIH). Luckily, there are many home remedies to treat these common issues. Let us look at some of the most effective solutions for treating dandruff and dry scalp after understanding what dandruff and dryness are.
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When hair becomes dry, damaged, and unmanageable, it can be a real pain. And sometimes, the solution is not so simple. You can’t just shampoo your hair like you do your scalp. But that doesn’t mean there aren’t some effective home remedies to make dealing with dandruff and dry scalp a little easier.
Dandruff is caused by an overgrowth of the fungus Pityrosporum Ovale in the scalp. This condition can lead to dandruff, a general term for loose flakes of dead skin cells on the scalp, especially in the form of flakes that flake off and fall to the ground. Dandruff is generally associated with men, especially after age 30. Several other causes of dandruff can also arise from environmental and personal factors, such as shampoo and sebum imbalance.
Dandruff is a common symptom of eczema, psoriasis, seborrheic dermatitis, dermatitis herpetiformis, seborrheic keratoses, and fungal infections. Some people, especially those who spend a lot of time outdoors, may suffer from dry scalp or dandruff, and the best remedy is prevention. In this article, we will discuss the best home remedies for dandruff.
Here are 24 tried-and-true home remedies for treating dandruff and dry scalp!
And if you’ve tried them and want to share your results, please let us know in the comments below:-
1. Baking Soda
If you have a problem with a persistent, itchy scalp, baking soda can help.
The key is applying baking soda directly to the scalp, not the hair. Baking soda has a pungent odor that will make your hair smell worse and irritate the scalp.
When applied directly to the scalp, baking soda helps restore normal moisture levels by absorbing excess moisture and then releasing it on contact.
2. Lemon Juice
Lemon juice may be a refreshing way to treat dandruff.
Be sure to use diluted lemon juice, as too much can dry the scalp.
As noted by one researcher, lemon juice can be used to fight bacteria that cause dandruff and can even improve the health of scalp tissue. It is also used as hair gel, not involving the risks of hair gel.
Combine two tablespoons of lemon juice with one cup of water. Stir well and apply to the scalp.
3. Aloe Vera
Aloe vera contains various vitamins and minerals that can promote healthy hair growth.
If your scalp is sensitive to aloe vera, you may find that a shampoo made with aloe vera is an effective option for treating dandruff.
You should avoid using aloe vera on the hair itself. It can damage the hair by stripping the protective layer on the hair shaft.
4. Vinegar
Vinegar can help clear up dandruff. It is said to help cleanse and moisturize the scalp.
This is the most effective vinegar treatment on the market for dandruff. To make the vinegar solution, combine one part white vinegar and three parts water.
Test it first to ensure the vinegar is not too strong.
The key is to avoid using vinegar if you are pregnant or nursing, as it can irritate the eyes and skin.
5. Castor Oil
Castor oil may reduce dandruff.
Studies show castor oil can act as an antibacterial agent and moisturizer that can help prevent the growth of fungus and dandruff. It is an effective conditioner for your hair and scalp.
This oil is sometimes recommended for people with oily scalps. Mix one part castor oil with one part olive oil. Or you can also mix one part castor oil and four parts water in a bowl.
You can leave this mixture on your scalp for 15 to 30 minutes.
This is a good option if you have a dry scalp and want to condition your hair.
6. Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar is an easy way to treat dandruff and dry scalp naturally.
If you like the flavor of apple cider vinegar, you may want to try using it as a toner or hair mask.
This is a good option for people concerned about the smell of the vinegar on their hair.
7. Honey
Honey can help soothe and heal your scalp and dandruff. Honey is often considered a natural and organic hair and scalp conditioner – the most readily available dandruff treatment at home!
You should apply honey to your scalp once a day for best results.
Mix equal parts honey and apple cider vinegar.
You can also add rosemary oil or aloe vera to this mixture.
8. Onion Juice
Onion juice has a high sulfur content that can kill the fungus and bacteria that cause dandruff.
The key is to keep your onion juice fresh. If you wait too long to drink your onion juice, the sulfur will oxidize into sulfurous acid.
9. Olive Oil
Olive oil can be added to shampoo to make it a more effective remedy for dandruff.
This means that olive oil can be used independently or in conjunction with other home remedies for dandruff.
Mix equal parts olive oil and water in a bowl. You can also add some tea tree oil to this mixture. Mix this mixture thoroughly and apply it to your hair. Leave it on for 20 to 30 minutes, and then rinse. Repeat the procedure once a day.
10. Garlic
Garlic has strong antibacterial properties that can help fight against the bacteria that cause dandruff.
A little goes a long way, though!
Add a few garlic cloves to boiling water and simmer for 15 to 20 minutes. Pour the mixture through a cheesecloth and squeeze the garlic out. Once the garlic is removed, mix in an ounce of honey. Apply this mixture to your scalp and leave it on for 5 to 10 minutes. Rinse with warm water. Do this procedure daily to cure dandruff.
11. Banana Peel
Banana peel is a natural and easy way to eliminate head dryness.
You can mash the banana peel to make a paste. Mix equal parts banana peel, olive oil, and honey in a bowl. You can also add some cinnamon to this mixture.
Mix this mixture thoroughly and apply it to your hair. Leave it on for 30 to 45 minutes, and then rinse. Repeat the procedure once a day.
12. Lemon
Use lemon juice instead of lemon oil. This allows the lemon to penetrate the hair shaft more effectively. Lemon juice is a natural way to reduce inflammation, promote hair growth, and treat dandruff and dry scalp.
To stop dandruff, combine half a cup of lemon juice with half a cup of sugar. Mix well and add a little bit of honey. Mix this mixture well and apply it to your scalp. Leave it on for 20 to 30 minutes. Rinse off with warm water. Do this twice a week to cure dandruff.
13. Parsley
Parsley has a natural property that combats the growth of dandruff.
To cure dandruff, cut some parsley and boil it in half a cup of vinegar for about 20 minutes. Strain out the parsley. You can add a pinch of salt to this mixture.
Pour this mixture over your hair and let it sit for 10 to 20 minutes. Rinse with lukewarm water. Do this once a week to get rid of dandruff.
14. Tea Tree Oil
Tea tree oil is a natural remedy for dandruff.
Add a few drops of tea tree oil to a cup of water. Then mix well. Apply as required. A few drops can also be applied directly to the scalp daily.
15. Almond Oil
Almond oil can also be used as a substitute for olive oil. Almond oil has magnesium, calcium, and zinc. Less magnesium and calcium can lead to less hair growth and hair loss. It also promotes re-growth of hair and decreases hair thinning.
Mix one tablespoon of almond oil with one tablespoon of castor oil. Mix this mixture well and apply it to your scalp. Leave it on for about 20 minutes. Rinse off with lukewarm water. Do this twice a week to get rid of dandruff.
16. Avocado Oil
Avocado oil is one of the best oils for treating skin conditions. It has excellent moisturizing properties and is effective at treating dry, cracked, and flaking skin. It can also help with other skin conditions such as psoriasis and eczema.
Add a few drops of avocado oil to a bowl of water. Massage your scalp with this mixture daily.
A few drops of avocado oil can also be added to the hair as a pre-wash treatment, which may help soften the hair shaft.
17. Rosemary
Rosemary is another herb used as a home remedy for dandruff.
You can use fresh or dried rosemary for dandruff treatment. When rubbed on your scalp, fresh rosemary helps cleanse and kill the fungus. Dried rosemary can be used in a steamy shower. It can be used with the rosemary plant itself or in tea. Rosemary is generally safe for internal use, but do not take it internally for longer than 14 days.
Add a few drops of rosemary oil to a cup of water. Let the mixture sit for 24 hours before using it.
18. Rice
Rice is often added to shampoos as a thickener and detangler.
Combine one cup of warm rice, one cup of cold water, and one tablespoon of white vinegar.
Rinse your hair twice a week with the mixture using lukewarm water.
19. Yogurt
Yogurt is commonly used as a face wash.
Mix one cup of plain yogurt with a few drops of essential oils. This simple method can help relieve the itch of dandruff for up to six months.
You’ll also want to consider adding milk to your diet, and consuming it throughout the day, to moisturize your scalp further and make the transition easier.
20. Milk
Milk is an excellent moisturizer and can be used as a scalp and hair conditioner. The lactic acid in milk removes the dead cells on the scalp, and the proteins help moisturize the scalp and leave it feeling soft and silky.
Use milk and a few drops of essential oil for a healthy scalp. Cold milk can act as a toner, especially for dry skin, keeping dandruff at bay. Add a teaspoon of milk to a bowl and mix. Pour the mixture on your hair, let sit for 5 minutes, and then rinse it out. Repeat once a week until you see results.
21. Coconut Oil and Lavender
This is a traditional Indian recipe that can be used to fight dandruff. Coconut oil contains lauric acid, a fatty acid that acts as a natural anti-fungal and anti-bacterial agent.
Take one part coconut oil, and one part dried lavender flowers. If you’re looking for a natural remedy to nourish your skin and boost your hair, try combining coconut oil and lavender essential oil for the best results. You can also use the oil as a pre-shampoo treatment, as it helps keep your hair in good shape and condition.
22. Coffee
Coffee has many benefits for the body and makes a great shampoo.
Brew a cup of coffee and let it cool slightly.
Combine this cooled coffee with a few drops of essential oils. The Oils will help add moisture and lather to the mix. Apply once every day.
23. Wheatgrass Juice
Wheatgrass juice is an excellent option for those with dandruff and a dry scalp. It is a fast-acting treatment for your scalp.
Mix half a cup of wheatgrass juice with one cup of water in a bowl. Stir until the liquid becomes a paste. Apply this paste to your scalp using a cotton ball.
Leave it on for 10 minutes, and then rinse. Repeat the procedure once a day.
24. Egg Yolk
You can use a homemade egg yolk mask to treat your hair.
Mash an egg yolk with a fork and add two teaspoons of olive oil. Mix this mixture thoroughly and apply it to your hair.
Leave it on for 10 to 15 minutes, and then rinse. You can repeat this treatment twice a week.
The Catch out of Dandruff Issues!
Dandruff, or skin flakes on the scalp, can occur for various reasons. Treating dandruff naturally is possible by avoiding stress and diet changes that may cause the body to release excess cortisol or other hormones. When these hormones are released, skin cells on the scalp tend to die. As a result, the skin may become dry and flaky.
Other causes of dandruff include bacteria and viruses, particularly those that cause fungal infections, as we mentioned earlier. While dandruff can be uncomfortable, it doesn’t usually lead to serious health concerns. However, dandruff can contribute to the buildup of excess oil on the scalp, leading to further irritation and flaking.
To prevent dandruff, it’s crucial to maintain a healthy lifestyle. Excessive sweating, too little sleep, and a poor diet can all contribute to an imbalance in hormone levels. To avoid these problems, try to eat a balanced diet, keep yourself hydrated and get enough rest. If your hair becomes very oily, you may consider using an oil-based shampoo and conditioner. These products are designed to cleanse the scalp, not dry it out. They may help to minimize the amount of flaking that occurs.
If dryness continues to plague you, consider using some of the above-mentioned natural dandruff treatment at home remedies to help.
If you’re experiencing severe itching, it may be a sign of a more serious problem. See a doctor if your skin is constantly flaking, red and painful, or if the flakes come out in clumps rather than individual flakes. Dandruff is often a symptom of other conditions, such as eczema, psoriasis, seborrheic dermatitis, or seborrheic eczema. In these cases, a doctor may prescribe an anti-fungal medication to help clear up the problem.
