10 Home Remedies For Dandruff
Dandruff is a common and chronic skin condition that affects the scalp. Individuals with this condition experience mild itchiness and flaking on the scalp that can result in self-esteem or social issues. While it is not contagious, it can be embarrassing and difficult to manage. A more severe type of this condition is known as seborrheic dermatitis.
Although the cause of dandruff is still unclear, it is believed to be due to a combination of environmental and genetic factors. The severity of this condition may increase, especially during the winter. It is important to note that dandruff is not caused by poor hygiene. Diagnosis of this condition can be achieved based on the clinical symptoms of the individual.
Despite not having a cure, available treatment options, such as antifungal cream ketoconazole, can help control the condition. Dandruff affects up to half of the adult population. This condition is more likely to affect the male population compared to females. Below are 10 home remedies that you can try for reducing dandruff.
Home Remedy #1: Coconut Oil
Coconut oil, or copra oil, is oil extracted from mature coconuts. It is versatile as it can be used in various applications such as cooking, food additives, and in cosmetics. Coconut oil can also be an effective home remedy for dandruff as it can help prevent dryness and improve skin hydration.
One study found that coconut oil can be as effective as mineral oil when used to improve skin hydration. Another found that it may be beneficial for those with eczema, which can contribute to dandruff. The application of coconut oil to the skin for 8 weeks has been found to reduce inflammation and itching of the skin. Due to its antimicrobial properties, it may also help to fight the strain of fungus that causes dandruff.
Home Remedy #2: Tea Tree Oil
Tea tree oil, or melaleuca oil, is an essential oil extracted from the leaves of the tea tree that is native to Australia. It has a camphoraceous odor and is commonly used topically in folk medicine for skin conditions. Tea tree oil has been thought to be beneficial for acne, dandruff, insect bites, herpes, fungal or bacterial infections on the skin, and scabies. It may be an effective home remedy for dandruff due to its anti-inflammatory and anti-microbial properties.
Some studies have found that it is effective against fungal infections that cause dandruff or seborrheic dermatitis. One study found that it reduces the severity of dandruff by 41 percent while improving itchiness and greasiness. Since tea tree oil can cause irritation to sensitive skin, it can be diluted by adding it to carrier oil.
Home Remedy #3: Managing Stress
Stress has been proven to negatively affect various aspects of well-being and health. It has been associated with higher risks of cardiovascular diseases, stroke, and high blood pressure. Although stress may not cause dandruff, it can aggravate the symptoms such as itching and dryness of the scalp. Long-term high stress levels can also suppress the immune system, which reduces the ability to fight off infections. This can also contribute to worsening of dandruff as the body is no longer as capable to fight off the skin conditions or infections that contribute to dandruff.
A study comprising of 82 participants with seborrheic dermatitis found that most episodes of dermatitis may have been triggered by a stressful event. To manage stress, try exercising regularly or try meditation and breathing techniques.
Home Remedy #4: Aspirin
Aspirin, or acetylsalicylic acid, is an over-the-counter medication that can be used in the treatment of fever, pain, and inflammation. However, as a home remedy for dandruff, aspirin can be useful as it can help rid the scalp of scaly skin and flakes. It is an ingredient that is commonly found in anti-dandruff shampoo.
In a small study, participants were assigned two different shampoos, one with salicylic acid and one without. The study found that the shampoo containing salicylic acid was more effective at reducing the scales on the scalp. Another study found that shampoo with salicylic acid was as effective as prescription medication for the treatment of dandruff or seborrheic dermatitis. To use aspirin as a home remedy for dandruff, crush two tablets of aspirin and add it into the shampoo before using it.
Home Remedy #5: Aloe Vera
Aloe vera is a succulent plant cultivated for various purposes. It is commonly used in cosmetics and traditional medicine. In folk or traditional medicine, aloe vera is usually used for the treatment of skin-related issues such as acne, rashes, and wounds. The use of aloe vera has been recorded as early as 1600 BC.
For dandruff, it can be an effective home remedy as it is thought to have antifungal and antibacterial properties. This was proven in a study that found that aloe vera may control the spread of fungal infections that results in hair loss from the scalp. It can also reduce inflammation, which in turn decreases itchiness.
Home Remedy #6: Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar is a substance made from apple juice that has been fermented. It is widely used in various applications such as marinades, salad dressings, food preservatives, and cleaning products. It is also often used in folk or traditional medicine for skin infections and weight loss. Other claims include improving insulin sensitivity, especially for diabetics.
It is also often used as a home remedy for dandruff as it is believed that the acidity from the vinegar can help the dead skin cells on the scalp to shed. It may also be beneficial as it could help balance the skin pH to reduce fungal growth that contributes to dandruff. To use apple cider vinegar for dandruff, add a few tablespoons to the shampoo. It can also be mixed with essential oils and sprayed onto the scalp.
Home Remedy #7: Baking Soda
Baking soda or sodium bicarbonate is a fine white powder that has various applications. Baking soda is used in cooking, cleaning products, pest control, and fire extinguishers. It is easily available in stores. Therefore, it is a convenient home remedy for dandruff.
Baking soda is thought to be effective for dandruff as it has antifungal properties and acts as a gentle exfoliant that helps remove dead skin cells to reduce itchiness and scaling. One study found that baking soda can help inhibit fungal growth in dandruff caused by fungal infections. To use baking soda as a home remedy for dandruff, apply baking soda to a wet scalp and massage it in. Allow it to sit for 1 to 2 minutes and continue shampooing as usual.
Home Remedy #8: Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Omega-3 fatty acids are polyunsaturated fatty acids that are found in marine algae, phytoplankton, edible seeds, and hemp oil. There are 3 types of omega-3 fatty acids: docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), alpha linolenic acid (ALA), and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA).
Omega-3 fatty acids have been associated with lower risks of cardiovascular disease and cancer, and it decreases inflammation. It is also thought to be crucial to skin health as it helps manage hydration, oil production, slows aging, and promotes wound healing. Due to its anti-inflammatory properties, it may be a helpful home remedy for dandruff as it relieves the irritation. Besides store supplements, it can also be found in foods such as walnuts, flaxseeds, and chia seeds.
Home Remedy #9: Raw Honey
Honey is a substance generally produced by bees. Honey is produced through the collection of floral nectar, regurgitation, water evaporation, and enzymatic activity. Raw honey differs from honey as it comes straight from the beehive, contains bee pollen, antioxidants, bee propolis, and is unprocessed.
Honey has been used for thousands of years in folk or traditional medicine for the treatment of various conditions such as wounds, burns, and coughs. It can be used as a home remedy for dandruff as it has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. It is also soothing to the scalp, acts as an emollient, and also conditions the hair. To use raw honey as a home remedy for dandruff, mix 1 to 2 tablespoons of raw honey with a two-thirds cup of water. Use the mixture to rinse your scalp and hair.
Home Remedy #10: Probiotics
Probiotics are microorganisms that can provide health benefits when consumed. This occurs when the probiotics restore or improve the gut flora. There are many claims regarding the health benefits of probiotics. It has been thought to be beneficial for allergies, eczema, diarrhea, blood pressure, and cholesterol.
A study where the participants take probiotics found that it reduces dandruff severity. It may be an effective home remedy for individuals with dandruff as it has also been found to improve symptoms of dermatitis and eczema. Probiotics are easily available in stores.
