Dandruff is a skin condition caused by factors like dietary habits and dry skin. It affects almost 50% of the population worldwide, but men are more likely to develop it. Itchy and flaky scalp, along with flakes falling on the shoulder and accumulating in the hair, are trademark symptoms. Thankfully, it isn’t a serious condition and can be cured even without medications.
Here are five simple home remedies to get rid of dandruff naturally.
Aloe vera gel
Chances are that you already know about the healing properties of aloe vera. The succulent plant has powerful antibacterial and antifungal properties, which make it useful against dandruff. Aloe vera gel also contains bioactive compounds that help reduce dandruff, and studies have shown that it improves moisture retention, promotes wound healing, and reduces inflammation. You can apply the gel directly over your scalp.
Baking soda
When used in moderation, baking soda can treat dandruff. The compound acts as an exfoliant, removing dead skin cells and scaling. Baking soda also has antifungal properties, which come in handy against dandruff and other common fungi that cause skin infections. For best results, apply baking soda over wet hair and let it rest for a minute or two before shampooing.
Coconut oil
Coconut oil is useful for fighting several skin conditions, including dandruff. It prevents dryness and improves skin hydration, which is more than enough to soothe the symptoms of dandruff. Its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties have been studied in great detail, and it has been found that coconut oil reduces inflammation and fights off microbes. The best way to reap its benefits is to apply coconut oil over your scalp and let it rest overnight or at least for a few minutes. This allows it to penetrate the scalp and repair the damage.
Omega-3 fatty acids
Increasing the intake of omega-3 fats keeps your skin healthy. Omega-3s promote wound healing and hydrate the skin, reducing itchiness and dryness, which are the trademark symptoms of dandruff. A deficiency of the compound promotes these issues. Additionally, these healthy fats are capable of reducing inflammation, which is highly beneficial as dandruff often causes redness and inflammation. Nuts, seeds, and fatty fish like trout and mackerel are excellent sources of this compound.
Tea tree oil
Tea tree oil contains terpinen-4-ol, a naturally occurring bioactive compound that has strong anti-inflammatory and antifungal properties. It alleviates the symptoms of dandruff, and it also helps relieve other problems like seborrheic dermatitis. Plus, regular use of tea tree oil improves itchiness, greasiness, and dryness associated with the condition. That said, you should never use undiluted tea tree oil on your scalp. Dilute it by adding a few drops to a carrier oil, or you can add it to your shampoo.
