Dandruff, a common scalp condition characterized by flaky skin and itchiness, can be both embarrassing and uncomfortable. Several commercial products including medicated shampoos can lessen the symptoms. Along with shampoos, natural remedies available right in your kitchen can effectively tackle dandruff.
Are you ready to treat dandruff with easy and no cost home remedies? In this article, we will explore 15 home remedies to cure dandruff naturally. These might provide you with safe and effective alternatives to commercial treatments. So, keep on reading.
Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar has antifungal properties that help combat the underlying causes of dandruff. It kills and controls yeast and scalp fungal infections. NCBI research states that apple cider vinegar is effective in inhibiting the growth of malasezia fungus responsible for causing dandruff.
Mix equal parts of apple cider vinegar and water, apply it to your scalp, and leave it on for 15 minutes before rinsing. Repeat this process a few times a week for best results.
Tea Tree Oil
Tea tree oil has powerful antifungal and antibacterial properties that can effectively treat dandruff. A study published in PubMed demonstrates that a 5% tea tree oil shampoo significantly reduced dandruff symptoms in clinical trials. I
nternational Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Research also shows with clinical data that tea tree oil is efficient in treating dandruff. Mayo Clinic study shows that tea tree oil shampoo causes significant improvement in dandruff within four weeks of use.
Dilute a few drops of tea tree oil in carrier oil, such as coconut or olive oil, and massage it into your scalp. Leave it on for 30 minutes before rinsing thoroughly.
Lemon Juice
The citric acid in lemon juice helps balance the pH level of your scalp and reduces dandruff. Squeeze fresh lemon juice onto your scalp and massage it gently. Leave it on for 5-10 minutes before rinsing. Then wash your hair with shampoo as usual. Be
cautious if you have any open cuts or sensitive skin, as lemon juice may irritate.
Research published in the Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology suggests that citric acid can effectively reduce dandruff-associated symptoms (Draelos et al., 2016).
Aloe Vera
Research shows antifungal activities of aloe vera gel help to reduce dandruff and alopecia diseases. Research by the Journal of Drug Delivery and Therapeutics suggests a combination of ketoconazole and aloe vera gel works to soothe the scalp and reduce dandruff.
Aloe vera has soothing and moisturizing properties that can alleviate scalp irritation and reduce dandruff. Apply fresh aloe vera gel directly to your scalp and leave it on for 30 minutes before rinsing. Repeat this process regularly to see noticeable improvements.
Baking Soda
Baking soda helps exfoliate the scalp and reduce flakes. Wet your hair and then rub a handful of baking soda onto your scalp. Rinse thoroughly and follow up with a mild shampoo. Start with this remedy once a week and gradually increase the frequency if needed.
Coconut Oil
Coconut oil is a natural moisturizer that can help nourish your scalp and reduce dandruff. Research on coconut oil proves that it helps to promote the beneficial bacteria responsible for a healthy and dandruff-free scalp.
Warm up some coconut oil and massage it into your scalp. Leave it overnight and wash your hair the next morning. Repeat this process regularly to experience the benefits.
Neem
Neem, also known as Indian lilac, possesses antifungal and antibacterial properties that can combat dandruff. A controlled lab study on neem leaves showed a decrease in dandruff. Another study relates the neem as an anti-inflammatory agent.
Boil neem leaves in water, let them cool, and filter the leaves. Use the water to rinse your hair. Alternatively, you can apply neem oil directly to your scalp and leave it on overnight before rinsing.
Yogurt
Yogurt contains probiotics and lactic acid, which can help restore the natural balance of your scalp and reduce dandruff. Apply plain yogurt to your scalp and leave it on for 30 minutes. Then rinse with shampoo or apply conditioner as desired. Repeat this process regularly for the best results.
Fenugreek Seeds
Fenugreek seeds have anti-inflammatory and antifungal properties that can alleviate dandruff symptoms. Lab study of fenugreek leaf extract gel results in Malaseezia control during 3 months of use. International Journal of Current Research also validates the effectiveness of fenugreek seeds for dandruff treatment.
Another study by the World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research highlights the role of fenugreek seeds in soothing the scalp and reducing dandruff.
Soak fenugreek seeds in water overnight, grind them into a paste, and apply it to your scalp. Leave it on for 30 minutes before rinsing thoroughly.
Olive Oil
Olive oil has moisturizing properties that can help soothe dryness and reduce dandruff. A mixture of honey, olive oil, and beeswax reduces redness and flakes on the scalp. Warm up some olive oil and massage it into your scalp. Cover your head with a shower cap and leave it on for 30 minutes to an hour before washing your hair.
Garlic
Garlic has antimicrobial properties that can combat dandruff-causing fungi. Crush a few garlic cloves and mix them with honey to create a paste. Apply the mixture to your scalp, leave it on for 15 minutes, and rinse thoroughly.
Onion Juice
Onion juice possesses antifungal properties that can help eliminate dandruff. Onion juice also helps in hair regrowth. Extract fresh onion juice and apply it to your scalp. Leave it on for 30 minutes before rinsing. You can mix the onion juice with other ingredients, such as lemon juice or honey, to mask the strong odor.
Witch Hazel
Witch hazel has astringent properties that can help soothe an itchy scalp and reduce dandruff. Dilute witch hazel with water and apply it to your scalp using a cotton pad. Leave it on for 15 minutes before rinsing.
Castor Oil
Castor oil can be used as a natural remedy for dandruff. It soothes the scalp and also strengthens hair follicles for regrowth. Apply warm castor oil to your scalp, massage gently, and leave it on for 1-2 hours or overnight. Wash your hair thoroughly afterward. Repeat 2-3 times a week for best results.
Healthy Diet and Hydration
A healthy diet and proper hydration play a vital role in maintaining a healthy scalp. Include foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin E, and zinc, such as fish, nuts, seeds, and leafy green vegetables. Drink an adequate amount of water daily to keep your scalp hydrated.
Conclusion
Dealing with dandruff can be frustrating, but with these 15 home remedies, you can effectively address the issue naturally. Remember, consistency is key when using natural remedies, and results may vary depending on the severity of your dandruff. If your symptoms persist or worsen, it is advisable to consult a dermatologist for further evaluation and treatment. Embrace these natural remedies and say goodbye to dandruff.
