Cure Dandruff

 

Best Home Remedies to Cure Dandruff naturally

Dandruff is a common scalp problem that can be very irritating and embarrassing. Dandruff is a common condition that can be found in the hair all year round and is the result of a dry and itchy scalp. Often caused by the overgrowth of a fungus, Malassezia, it especially becomes evident during winter as the scalp is unable to get enough moisture and becomes dry. Home remedies can do well to treat dandruff, provided the condition is not severe. If dandruff is severe, then it is advised that you take medical treatment that can help resolve this problem.

What Causes Dandruff?

Dandruff, medically known as seborrheic dermatitis, is a common scalp condition characterized by flaking of the skin on the scalp.  Dandruff is caused when a type of fungus called Malassezia begins to grow on your scalp. However, this results in scalp damage and causes severe dryness.  It is important to unearth the fundamental reasons for the formation of dandruff before proceeding to the methods to cure it. Several factors can contribute to the development of dandruff, including:

Malassezia: This is a type of yeast that naturally lives on the scalp of most adults. However, in some people, it can multiply excessively, leading to irritation and increased shedding of skin cells, resulting in dandruff. It feeds on the oils of the scalp.  Too much Malassezia hence causes dandruff.

Oily Skin: People with oily skin are more prone to dandruff. Linked to an excess production of sebum, the scalp’s natural oil, resulting in sticky, clumped flakes. The excess oil (sebum) produced by the scalp can contribute to the growth of Malassezia and the accumulation of dead skin cells, leading to dandruff.

Dry Skin: Conversely, dry skin can also cause dandruff.  When the scalp becomes too dry, leads to the formation of flaking and itching, which results in dandruff.

Not Shampooing Enough: When one does not frequently wash hair. Infrequent shampooing can lead to a buildup of oil and dead skin cells on the scalp, providing an environment conducive to the growth of Malassezia and the development of dandruff.

Sensitivity to Hair Care Products: Some people may be sensitive to certain hair care products, such as shampoos, conditioners, or hair styling products. Ingredients in these products can irritate the scalp and contribute to dandruff.

Home Remedies to Cure Dandruff:

There are many natural dandruff home remedies that you can use on a daily basis and this will help you get rid of dandruff permanently. However, in order to get all of this done, you need to get certain ingredients ready and mix all of it in an appropriate manner. 

Tea Tree Oil: Tea tree oil has natural antifungal properties that can help combat the yeast responsible for dandruff. Tea tree oil has antifungal and antibacterial properties that help eliminate Malassezia, reducing scalp irritation and inflammation. It reduces scalp inflammation, controls itching, and minimizes flaking, promoting a healthier scalp. Mix a few drops of tea tree oil with a carrier oil (like coconut oil) and massage it into your scalp. Leave it on for about 30 minutes before rinsing out.

Apple Cider Vinegar (ACV): Apple cider vinegar can be used to gently cleanse your scalp and can help with dandruff treatment. Apple cider vinegar has been used for centuries as an all-purpose remedy due to its antibacterial properties. Mix equal parts ACV and water, apply it to your scalp after shampooing, and let it sit for a few minutes before rinsing thoroughly.

Coconut Oil: Coconut oil has multiple health benefits and is often used as a natural remedy for dandruff. This is a tried and tested anti-dandruff treatment. Coconut oil can help improve hydration, reduce irritation, and prevent fungal growth. Warm up some coconut oil and massage it into your scalp. Leave it on overnight for best results, then wash your hair in the morning.

Aloe Vera: Aloe vera soothes an irritated scalp, reduces inflammation, and relieves itching caused by dandruff.  Aloe Vera has certain anti-fungal properties that helps treat recurring dandruff and cleanses dead skin for regeneration of fresh cells. Apply fresh aloe vera gel directly to your scalp, leave it on for about 30 minutes, then rinse off with lukewarm water.

Baking Soda: Baking soda absorbs the excess sebum that the scalp produces and keeps the extra grease from forming into dandruff. Baking soda is a gentle exfoliant, removing dead skin cells and reducing dandruff. It also helps control excess oil on the scalp. Wet your hair and rub a handful of baking soda onto your scalp. Leave it on for a few minutes before rinsing thoroughly with water.

Lemon Juice:  Lemon juice is a big part of dandruff treatment and helps to get rid of dandruff quickly. Lemon juice is one of the most popular scalp itching home remedies it has antibacterial properties that prevent the yeast, Malassezia from causing dandruff. Lemon juice's acidity helps balance the pH of the scalp and reduces dandruff. Massage freshly squeezed lemon juice onto your scalp and let it sit for 5-10 minutes before rinsing out with water.

Yogurt: The probiotics in yoghurt or curd help restore the natural balance of the scalp's microbiome, reducing dandruff. The probiotics in yogurt can help restore the natural balance of the scalp, reducing dandruff. Apply plain yogurt to your scalp, leave it on for about 15-20 minutes, then rinse thoroughly with water.

Neem (Indian Lilac): Neem is a powerhouse for fighting dandruff. Neem has antibacterial and antifungal properties that can help treat dandruff. Boil neem leaves in water, strain the solution, let it cool, and use it as a hair rinse after shampooing.

Apple cider vinegar: Apple cider vinegar has multiple uses, among them being combating the overgrowth of dandruff. Apple cider vinegar offers many health benefits and is often used as one of the best natural home remedies for dandruff. because it has probiotics and anti-inflammatory properties that kill viruses and yeast that cause itchiness on the skin. Its anti-inflammatory properties soothe scalp irritations caused by dandruff, while the high acidity makes it more difficult for bacteria and fungus to grow and cause dandruff. Mix half a cup of Apple Cider Vinegar with half a cup of water.  Massage it well into your scalp and then leave it in for about 10–15 minutes. Rinse off with cold water. Repeat this routine regularly every few days until you start seeing results.

Garlic:  Garlic possesses antimicrobial properties that target dandruff-causing microbes. Garlic has a good source of antifungal properties that have the tendency to eliminate certain dangerous microbes that are responsible for causing dandruff. Crush a few garlic cloves and mix them with honey to form a paste. Apply this paste to your scalp and leave it on for about 15-30 minutes before rinsing thoroughly.

Fenugreek Seeds: Fenugreek seeds are used as a preventive cure for dandruff. Fenugreek seeds are rich in antioxidants and have anti-inflammatory properties that calm an irritated scalp. Soak fenugreek seeds overnight, grind them into a paste, and apply it to your scalp. Leave it on for about 30 minutes before rinsing.

Onion Juice: Onion juice has antimicrobial properties that can help fight dandruff-causing fungi. Extract onion juice and apply it to your scalp using a cotton ball. Leave it on for about 30 minutes before rinsing thoroughly with water.

Olive Oil: The olive oil (or coconut oil) in your kitchen cabinet can be very useful because it can temporarily remove dandruff flakes. Olive oil is a popular home remedy for dry, itchy scalp relief. Olive oil is rich in antioxidants and moisturizing properties that can help soothe the scalp and reduce dandruff. Warm up some olive oil and massage it into your scalp. Leave it on for at least 30 minutes or overnight before washing it out with a mild shampoo.

WHEN TO SEE A DOCTOR FOR DANDRUFF?

If natural remedies do not work or if symptoms are severe or persistent, it may be necessary to see a doctor. If you're experiencing severe itching, redness, or inflammation on your scalp along with excessive dandruff, it could be a sign of a more serious scalp condition such as seborrheic dermatitis, psoriasis, or eczema. A doctor can help diagnose the underlying cause and provide appropriate treatment. If you've been using over-the-counter dandruff shampoos or treatments as directed for several weeks without seeing any improvement in your dandruff, it's a good idea to consult a doctor. you're experiencing other symptoms such as hair loss, sores on the scalp, or swollen lymph nodes, it's important to see a doctor for further evaluation. These symptoms could indicate an underlying medical condition that requires prompt treatment.  A dermatologist can help determine the underlying cause of dandruff and prescribe more advanced treatment options such as prescription-strength shampoos or medications. 

Overall, if you're unsure whether you should see a doctor about your dandruff, it's better to err on the side of caution and seek medical advice. A healthcare professional can provide reassurance, diagnose any underlying conditions, and recommend the most effective treatment options for you.