5 out of 10 people are affected by dandruff, and most of them are males. Don’t be so surprised! This is a common problem. Dandruff is not about your hair – it is about your scalp. Those white flakes that refuse to go away – that is dandruff.
Dandruff – What is It?
It’s a common condition causing an itchy scalp and then resulting in dead skin flakes. Dandruff severity can vary from one person to another. While one may get rid of dandruff easily, another may find the need for medical intervention.
What exactly is dandruff? Dandruff is nothing but dead skin cells that accumulate on the skin. Your skin cells keep replacing themselves, but in the case of dandruff, the shedding of dead cells is in large clumps that become visible on the scalp.
5 Ways to Treat Dandruff at Home
Usually, dandruff does not need treatment, but if it is severe, then it needs attention. One way to treat it is by using hair products specially formulated for dandruff, such as a medicated shampoos. But these chemical formulas can damage your hair by drying it out. The second way is to use home remedies – time-tested ones that are effective and yet gentle on the scalp.
Here are some time-tested old dandruff remedies that are sure to work for you –
1. Aloe Hair Mask
Aloe Vera has anti-inflammatory properties, and using the gel on the scalp helps relieve inflammation and provides relief from itchy scalp. This succulent is rich in minerals and vitamins necessary for a healthy scalp and hair. One of the best DIY aloe remedies for hair is making a hair mask using aloe vera, olive oil, and curd. All three moisturize the scalp and soothe it. The mask also controls the production of excess oil in the scalp and prevents fungal growth.
How To Use – To make this hair mask, mix 2 tablespoons of aloe gel with a cup of yogurt and a tablespoon of olive oil. Apply this mask on your scalp and leave it on for half an hour. Wash well with lukewarm water.
Also Read: How to Use Epsom Salt for Dandruff
2. Yogurt
Yoghurt contains lactic acid that has antibacterial properties which help reduce dandruff. Yogurt is also a good source of protein, which strengthens hair.
How To Use – Wash and rinse your hair with warm water and towel dry. Your hair should be damp, not dripping wet. Apply yogurt on the scalp and your strands. Wash it off after 10 minutes with warm water.
3. Apple Cider Vinegar
This is one of the most effective ingredients that eliminates dandruff by restoring the scalp’s pH balance. Apple cider vinegar has numerous properties – it cleanses hair naturally, prevents yeast growth, unclogs pores, and removes excess sebum from hair follicles.
How to Use – To use apple cider vinegar, add 3 cups of cold water to 2 cups of the ingredient and rinse your hair with it after a shampoo. Wash it off with plain water after two minutes. Doing this once a week will give wonderful results.
4. Tea Tree Oil
Tea tree oil has antifungal, antiviral, and antibacterial properties. It is used to treat multiple problems, including minor wounds, an itchy scalp, and dandruff. But tea tree oil is never to be used directly on the scalp. Always dilute it with an oil such as coconut oil and olive oil.
How To Use – Make a tea tree oil shampoo at home by adding coconut milk, vitamin E oil, olive oil, baking soda, and water to tea tree oil. Wash your scalp with this shampoo twice a week for the best results.
5. Lemon and Coconut Oil
Coconut oil has been used for centuries for hair massage. It has antifungal properties and moisturizes and nourishes the scalp. When combined with lemon juice, it works wonders in getting rid of dandruff.
How To Use – To make a potent anti-dandruff mask, mix equal quantities of coconut oil and lemon juice. Massage your scalp with it and leave it for 20 minutes so that your scalp can absorb the goodness of the oil and lemon juice. Wash your hair after 20 minutes and do this thrice a week.
3 Best Tips to Prevent dandruff
- Avoid sugar and carbs because they build glycogen, and yeast feeds on them.
- Exfoliate the scalp using walnut scrubs or coffee scrubs to clear dead skin before they accumulate and form flakes.
- Don’t touch your scalp and if your scalp feels itchy, use a natural coolant like aloe vera or curd.
Conclusion
The best way to cure dandruff is to follow a good hair-care routine. While we all take good care of our skin, most people ignore hair care. Dandruff can affect the skin and cause breakouts. Use a good anti-dandruff shampoo every fortnight and use home remedies to treat your hair.
Finally, if dandruff persists after following all these tips, then consult a good dermatologist to get the best treatment.
Author’s Bio
Kritika Singh is a beauty and skincare lover. To give wings to her love for the same she blogs at ApunKaChoice.com, an entertainment and lifestyle blog dedicated to keeping you entertained as you take care of your health, skin, and hair. When not blogging, you would see her hopping cafes and sipping a cuppa.
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