Dandruff is a skin condition that causes inflammation of the scalp and is accompanied by itchiness of the skin, white flakes, and greasy patches. There are several causes for Dandruff, which may include not shampooing enough, dry skin, diet, sensitive to hair-care products, or overgrowth of a yeast-like fungus called Malassezia, which feeds on sebum on the scalp. Some skin conditions such as psoriasis and eczema can also cause Dandruff. Although there are many over-the-counter products that treat Dandruff, natural home remedies for dandruff can be go-to and very effective.
1. Baking Soda
Baking soda is readily available and one of the most convenient home remedies for dandruff. It acts as a mild exfoliant to remove dead skin cells on the scalp, thus reducing scaling and itchiness. It also helps reduce the excess oil on the scalp and makes our scalp feel fresh.
One test-tube study which measured the antifungal effects of Baking soda found that it was able to effectively inhibit fungal growth in 79% of specimens just after seven days. Baking soda has properties to reduce the over-reactive fungi that cause dandruff.
2. Tea Tree Oil
Tea tree is an essential oil that has powerful anti-microbial and anti-inflammatory properties in it, which helps to treat dandruff, and is considered one of the most effective natural treatments.. In the olden days, it was extensively used in the treatment of acne and psoriasis.
A 4-week study which examined the effects of tea tree oil on dandruff by treating 126 people daily with a shampoo containing either 5% tea tree oil or a placebo, found that tea tree oil reduced the severity of the symptoms by 41%, and improved greasiness and itchiness.
3. Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar is an effective home remedy for dandruff. It is full of antibacterial and antifungal properties, which help maintain scalp health. Apple Cider Vinegar (ACV) inhibits the growth of yeast by restoring the Phone balance of the scalp, thus eliminating dandruff-causing fungi and effectively controls the problem. The anti-inflammatory properties of Apple cider vinegar soothe scalp irritation and inflammation and reduce itchiness.
4. Coconut Oil And Lemon Juice
Lemon juice is a rich source of citric acid, which helps fight dandruff from the roots of the hair follicles. Whereas Coconut oil moisturizes a dry scalp and helps tackle itchiness effectively. And also nourishes your hair, and boosts hair growth. This is one of the most common home remedies for dandruff, being used by Indians since decades and more.
5. Olive Oil And Vinegar
Olive oil is a natural conditioner and moisturizes your hair, which makes it an effective home remedy for dandruff. Olive oil helps prevent your scalp from flaking by moisturizing the dry patches on the scalp. Whereas the acetic properties of vinegar fight fungal infections and regulate blood circulation in the scalp.