Dealing with dandruff can be a bit of a nuisance, it's not the end of the world. There are plenty of simple and natural remedies you can try right at home! From soothing scalp massages with oils to DIY hair masks using common kitchen ingredients, you just need to find the right dandruff treatment at home. So, if you're tired of those pesky white flakes appearing on your shoulders, stick around.
01Dandruff Remedies: Basics
But first, what is dandruff? Dandruff is those pesky white or yellow flakes that often appear on the scalp and in your hair. It's typically caused by a combination of factors, including an overgrowth of a yeast-like fungus called Malassezia, dry skin, sensitivity to hair products or even certain medical conditions.
Maintaining scalp health and hair clean is key for an effective dandruff treatment at home. Regularly wash your hair with a gentle shampoo to remove excess oil, dirt, and dead skin cells. For a tried-and-tested shampoo-conditioner combo, we suggest going with something that's proven to bring about results.
A staple in desi households, Dove Dandruff Care Shampoo and Conditioner is a popular anti-dandruff combo that gives you visible results from the first hair wash. But unlike the old-school dandruff shampoos that would dry out your hair, this one leaves your hair super soft and moisturised thanks to its micro-moisture serum formula.
Also avoid harsh chemicals that can irritate your scalp and trigger dandruff flare-ups. It's also important to maintain a healthy lifestyle by eating a balanced diet, staying hydrated and managing stress levels, as these can also contribute to dandruff. Lastly, try not to scratch your scalp too vigorously, as this can worsen irritation and inflammation, leading to more dandruff.
02Dandruff Treatment at Home
Well, let's take a look at some DIY remedies and find the best dandruff treatment at home that works for you.
The Power of Natural Oils
Tea Tree Oil: Tea tree oil benefits include natural antifungal properties, making it an effective remedy for dandruff caused by fungal overgrowth. To use it, mix a few drops of tea tree oil with a carrier oil like coconut oil or olive oil. Massage this mixture into your scalp and leave it on for about 30 minutes before rinsing it out with a mild shampoo.
Coconut Oil: Coconut oil is known for its moisturizing properties, which can help alleviate dryness and reduce dandruff. Simply warm up some coconut oil for dandruff, then massage it into your scalp and hair. Leave it on for at least 30 minutes or overnight for maximum benefits, then wash it out with shampoo.
Ayurvedic Oil: A mix of potent herbs and dandruff-killing ingredients in Ayurvedic remedies can also be quite effective. The Indulekha Svetakutaja (Anti-Dandruff) Hair Oil is loaded with the likes of neem, amla, bringharaj and more while being free of harsh chemicals. Just apply it to your scalp thrice a week to see results quickly.
DIY Scalp Scrubs
Sugar and Olive Oil Scalp Scrub: This scrub helps with scalp exfoliation, removing dead skin cells and reducing dandruff. Mix equal parts of sugar and olive oil to form a paste. Gently massage the scrub into your scalp using circular motions, then rinse thoroughly with water and shampoo as usual.
Apple Cider Vinegar: Apple cider vinegar for dandruff has antibacterial and antifungal properties that can help balance the pH level of the scalp and reduce dandruff. Mix equal parts of apple cider vinegar and water, then apply it to your scalp after shampooing. Let it sit for a few minutes before rinsing it out thoroughly with water.
Soothing Aloe Vera
Aloe vera for scalp has soothing and moisturizing properties that can help calm inflammation and reduce itchiness associated with dandruff. Apply fresh aloe vera gel directly to your scalp and leave it on for about 30 minutes before rinsing it out with water.
Refreshing Lemon Juice Therapy
Lemon juice helps regulate the pH level of the scalp, while honey moisturizes and soothes irritation. Mix equal parts of lemon juice and honey and apply the mixture to your scalp. Leave the lemon and honey treatment on for about 20 minutes before rinsing it out with water and shampooing as usual.
Balancing with Baking Soda
Baking soda scalp treatment acts as a natural exfoliant, helping to remove dead skin cells and reduce dandruff. Mix baking soda with water to form a paste, then massage it into your scalp. Leave it on for a few minutes before rinsing it out thoroughly with water and shampooing as usual.
03FAQs about Home Treatments for Dandruff
Q1. When to see a doctor?
The above home remedies and preventions for dandruff should offer relief from the problem. But if dandruff remains persistent or gets worse, it's time to visit a dermatologist. Especially, if your scalp is constantly itchy, inflamed or red.
Q2. Does dandruff lead to hair loss?
Dandruff itself does not cause hair loss. However, severe dandruff can cause a person to scratch their scalp so hard that they injure it. Repeated inflammation in the hair follicles can cause damage and scarring, slowing or stopping hair growth.
Q3. Is dandruff related to gut health?
Yes, dandruff is usually a sign of yeast overgrowth elsewhere in the body, particularly in the gastrointestinal tract. Over here, the dandruff treatment at home would be to eat a healthy diet.
