Home Remedies For Dandruff
Important Notice: Our web hosting provider recently started charging us for additional visits, which was unexpected. In response, we're seeking donations. Depending on the situation, we may explore different monetization options for our Community and Expert Contributors. It's crucial to provide more returns for their expertise and offer more Expert Validated Answers or AI Validated Answers. Learn more about our hosting issue here.
Home Remedies For Dandruff
You must be logged in to post a comment.
An itchy and uncomfortable scalp is in no way harmful, but is bothersome physically for those that suffer from it. Dandruff is the byproduct of an excessive amount of dead skin cells on the scalp and is also an unsightly and can be a socially awkward problem. Several factors contribute to the development of dandruff. The health of scalp as well as the health of the overall body are the main factors in the production of dandruff. Just as the skin on the body requires assistance shedding skin cells with the use of loofahs, puffs and pumice stones, so too does the scalp require maintenance. This is especially true for those that are naturally prone to dead skin cells that tend to clump and become dandruff.
Fighting Dandruff at the Scalp
Removing the dead skin cells without damaging the scalp is the biggest challenge for dandruff sufferers. The itching sensation that occurs is the body’s attempt to trigger the hand to scratch and remove the dead skin. This process, however, can become quite problematic as is can causes breaks and tears in the scalp allowing bacteria that is festering on the hands or under the nails to cause infection. Simulating the act of scraping away these patches of dry, dead skin cells safely is the key to reducing dandruff build up.
Oils
Saturate the scalp with baby oil or olive oil. Do not saturate all the hair, especially if you have long hair, as it will just be a waste of oil. The problem of dandruff occurs on the skin of the scalp only. Allow this oil to penetrate the many layers of dead skin by leaving the oil on for 1-2 hours. If possible, wrap your hair in a towel and sleep with the baby oil overnight. In the morning, you can begin the process of removing the dead skin from your head. This is done by using a fine toothed comb. Use antibacterial soap before and after this process to prevent germs from being introduced to the scalp or remaining on the comb afterwards. Gently comb the hair, focusing on the areas closest to the scalp. Comb repeatedly over the same areas. You will begin to notice clumps of skin leaving the scalp and becoming visibly caught in the hair. These pieces are sticky and will be hard to remove piece by piece. Wait until you have completed this process on the entire scalp and then shampoo the oil out. Be sure to use conditioner and comb your hair through to remove the oil and dead skin.
Mouthwash
The antiseptic properties of the original amber colored Listerine are a fantastic way to combat not only dandruff, but the fungus that can cause it. After a shower, apply a couple tablespoons to the scalp and massage. Rinse thoroughly and repeat for 3-6 days or until you see improvement.
Vinegar
An apple a day may keep the doctor a way, but a little apple cider vinegar can keep the dandruff away. Use a spray bottle with a 1:1 mix of warm water and apply cider vinegar. Spray on scalp after shampoo has been applied and keep on for at least 10 minutes. Rinse out and repeat weekly for optimal results.
Lemons
Finish a dandruff treatment with a 1:1 lemon juice and warm water mix. Place in a spray bottle and spritz onto the roots of damp hair. This will help detoxify the scalp and keep bacteria and fungus development at bay. This concentration, when used on a regular basis, can also lighten the hair slightly and add natural highlights when combined with sun exposure.
Fighting Dandruff from the Inside
Overall health is also a contributor to the development of dandruff. A weakened immune system is more susceptible to fungal and bacterial infections which can aggravate a person who is prone to this problem. Maintain body health with multivitamins and proper diet. Detoxifying the body with regular exercise and antioxidants like blueberries and green tea also helps cleanse the body
As with all health improvement treatments, some respond to a person’s body chemistry better than others. All of the above treatments are proven effective. Mix and match and find the treatments that work best for your dandruff condition and leave embarrassing flakes a problem of the past.