Dandruff is characterized by a shedding of dead skin cells from the scalp. These cells cause dandruff because they get so thick that they start to fall off. Some people experience more than just a few flakes everyday that come off the scalp.
In this situation, dandruff becomes an aesthetic issue and can lead to feelings of embarrassment.
This is also irritating, as it can lead to itchiness and scalp infections that result from bacteria on the hands or under fingernails transferring to the head.
Seborrheic dermatitis, eczema, psoriasis, and overgrowth of a yeast-like fungus called Malassezia are all potential causes of dandruff that promote excessive scaling of the scalp. In some cases, eating foods like yogurt or fish oil may help with dandruff symptoms like dryness or flaking.
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Aspirin
Aspirin and medicated shampoo may provide relief for those with dandruff. To use aspirin, crush two tablets into a powder and then add the mixture to any regular shampoo. Let this sit on your scalp for about two minutes.
Once done, shake out the mixture and then rinse it out of your hair with water. You can also use medicated shampoos, which often contain salicylic acid or some other active ingredient found naturally in bark from various types of trees.
Tea Tree Oil
Tea tree oil is another helpful home remedy for reducing the severity of dandruff. It is a potent antimicrobial and antifanging agent. Some shampoos already contain about 5% tea tree oil. It is also possible to add this ingredient to one’s preferred shampoo. A good ratio is 2 drops of tea tree oil per 1 ounce of shampoo.
Replace the shampoo bottle lid and shake vigorously before using; shampoo normally. This remedy helps eliminate any fungal and bacterial infections on the scalp that cause flaky and itchy skin. Some people are sensitive to tea tree oil; a person should apply a drop of the oil to the skin on the inside of the wrist to test for any adverse reactions.
Baking Soda
Basic ingredients like baking soda are as effective against dandruff as they are for many other skin ailments. If you’re not a fan of the smell, try mixing some vinegar in with the water. Rinse the mixture lightly onto wet hair and allow it to dry naturally before gently brushing any remaining residue out.
The baking soda will reduce fungi on an oily, sweaty scalp without causing any drying. After using baking soda, many people find that their hair is softer and their scalp has less itchiness.
Vinegar
Yeast need a neutral-to-basic environment to grow. This means that a more aggressive way of getting rid of them is to use apple cider vinegar or white vinegar. The acidic vinegar changes the pH of the scalp, making it difficult for yeast to grow.
A mixture of 1 part apple cider or white vinegar and 1 part water is the best thing you can do to get rid of dandruff. Mix this into a spray bottle and spritz on your scalp. For gentle removal, cover your hair with a towel and let the mixture sit for up to an hour before washing it out with shampoo. Doing this once per week will help reduce the ratio of yeast on your scalp.
Mouthwash
Alcohol-based mouthwashes can also eliminate yeast and bacteria. These products could be used to treat a bad case of dandruff. How do you do that? First, wash your hair with a regular shampoo.
Rinse out the shampoo and use the mouthwash as a rinse. Follow up by applying a hair conditioner if you want. The alcohol-based mouthwash can be used on a regular basis in order to prevent yeast from growing on the scalp. People who work out regularly may wish to do this immediately after exercising because the yeast thrive on the sweat released by the scalp.
Coconut Oil
Dandruff can lead to dry, itchy scalps. To relieve symptoms and get rid of dandruff, many people apply coconut oil to their scalp and hair.
This is not only soothing; it also contains fats that restore moisture to the scalp and hair. If you’re experiencing a dry or itchy scalp, massage 3-5 tablespoons of coconut oil into your scalp before shampooing normally. You should also condition your hair after washing out the coconut oil if desired. Some shampoos already contain this ingredient!
Olive Oil
If you have a dry scalp, an olive oil soak might help. Massage 1 teaspoon of olive oil into the scalp.
Cover your head with a shower cap and leave it on for at least one hour, or overnight if you want. Shampoo as usual in the morning. Some drugstore shampoos contain olive oil, too.
Fenugreek
Fenugreek seeds can also reduce dandruff and have antifungal and antimicrobial properties. Soak 2 tablespoons of fenugreek seeds in 1 cup of water overnight, then drain the water and crush the seeds into a paste.
Add a few tablespoons of apple cider vinegar to the paste because it will mix with the awesome smell of fenugreek. Apply this paste to your scalp for about 30 minutes so it can soak in well. Then use a mild shampoo to wash it out afterward. Make sure to repeat this process as often as necessary!
