Did you know that Dandruff affects up to 50 percent of people?
An itchy scalp and flakiness are the traditional signs of this condition, and who wants to deal with that on a daily basis?
Some causes of dandruff can also include dry skin, sensitivity to hair products and the growth of a particular type of fungus that lives on the scalp, according to The U.S. National Library of Medicine.
While there are many over-the-counter products designed to treat dandruff, natural remedies can be just as effective.
Here are five, simple home remedies to naturally get rid of dandruff.
Baking Soda
This simple ingredient can be found in most pantry's worldwide and for a good reason.
Baking soda is a quick, convenient remedy to help treat dandruff because it is described as a gentle exfoliator to remove dead skin cells and lessen itchiness. It also has antifungal properties that could be beneficial in the treatment of dandruff, according to Healthline.
Directions
1. Apply a large tablespoon of baking soda into your wet hair and scalp
2. Massage into your scalp
3. Wash out thoroughly after one minute
4. Continue with your normal wash routine
5. Repeat twice a week. After two weeks, your scalp should begin producing natural oils, leaving the skin on your head moisturized and dandruff-free.
Tea Tree Oil
Photo: UpNature
Historically, tea tree oil has been used to treat ailments ranging from acne to psoriasis. But, tea tree oil has also been known to have anti-microbial and anti-inflammatory properties which may help alleviate symptoms of dandruff, The U.S. National Library of Medicine states.
If you have sensitive skin, be cautious of using tea tree oil by itself. Some researchers suggest diluting it with a few drops of carrier oil, like coconut oil, before applying it directly to the scalp to help combat any reactions.
Directions
1. Rub the tea tree oil into your scalp
3. Let the oil sit for 5 minutes
2. Rinse with water
4. Repeat once per day for the best results
Coconut Oil
Photo: Organic Facts
Well-known for its many benefits, among them coconut oil is often also used as a natural remedy for dandruff. When applied directly on the scalp, it can improve skin hydration and prevent dryness, which can worsen dandruff.
Directions
1. Wash your hair, but do not use any conditioners
2. Dry your hair after showering. Make sure your hair does not feel silky, it needs to feel dry
3. Put coconut oil on your scalp, try to avoid getting it in the rest of your hair
4. Wash out coconut oil. Make sure you get it all out. You may have to wash your hair twice to get it all out
5. Repeat this once weekly until dandruff is gone
Aloe Vera
Photo: Skinsense
Aloe vera is a type of plant that is frequently added to skin ointments, cosmetics and lotions to help our skin. When applied to the skin directly, aloe vera can help to treat skin conditions like burns, psoriasis and cold sores, even dandruff, according to the NCCIH.
Directions
1. Cut one aloe vera leaf from the plant and then split it in half
2. Extract the gel with a knife or spoon and apply that directly on the scalp
3. Massage gently and make sure that it spreads all over the scalp
4. Cover your head with a warm, damp towel and wait for 20 minutes before washing your hair with a mild shampoo
5. Repeat twice a week for the best results
Apple Cider Vinegar
Photo: Healthline
Apple cider vinegar has a plethora of health benefits, as we know. But what some people might not know is that it is often used as a natural way to get rid of dandruff.
The acidity of the vinegar can help stimulate the shedding of dead skin cells on the scalp, according to experts. It can also help to balance the pH of the skin to reduce the growth of fungus and thus fight dandruff.
Directions
1. Take 1/4 cup of apple cider vinegar and mix it with 1 cup of water
2. Wash your hair normally, then pour apple cider vinegar-water mixture carefully onto hair and scrub into your scalp. Be careful not to let any get into your eyes
3. Leave on for 10-15 minutes, then rinse with water
4. Repeat daily for about a week
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