Quick Tips on How to Get Rid of Dandruff Naturally !
15-12-2015 | Posted By: Vivek Singh | 9175 View(s)
Dandruff is something which can be a source of great embarrassment at times, and a lot of people fret from the very thought of having it! Friends, I know I speak for all of you out there, when I mention about that mortified vibe that we get during an interview, or while having some gala-time with your friends, when we have that undying urge to scrape an itchy scalp and simultaneously be terrified about getting all that white residue on the formal coat in front of people who matter, or that stunning little red dress or a black blazer that we have worn with our friends to a gathering! Yes, we are talking about Dandruff and in case you are also one of those affected. Read on to find the best ways on how to get rid of Dandruff naturally!
What Exactly is Dandruff?
Dandruff is a scalp condition caused due to fungal infection. It causes flaky scalp that could be oily too. It may be due to a dry scalp or seborrheic dermatitis condition of the skin. The development of a fungus called Malassezia which preys on the sebum that is secreted from our hair roots is another reason to get dandruff on our hair. Basically, all that dirt, dust, oil, grease and the dreadful pollutants in the atmosphere, lead to the generation of the white flakes in those beautiful locks.
The exact cause of dandruff is unknown, but studies suggest that various factors may increase the risk. These factors generally do not relate to poor hygiene, however, if a person does not wash their hair properly, then dandruff may be more visible.
Dandruff is ignored mostly as people tend to be least concerned about their scalp health. Some people try the regular cosmetic anti-dandruff shampoos that are easily available in the market. Most of these cosmetic products only wash off the existing flakes but don’t treat your scalp. Dermatologists provide medicated solutions for dandruff which contain strong anti-fungal medications. Want to know ‘ How to Get Rid of Dandruff naturally ’ Well, Home remedies are the best when it comes to dandruff treatments. They work from inside and give long-term results. They also don’t bear the risk of any harmful side effects. They are cost-effective and can be carried out in the comfort of your home.
Those white flakes can be irritating and annoying, However, the good news is that it is very much possible to get over it or minimize its effect with a proper hair care routine and some home remedies that require ingredients that you can easily find in your kitchen. However More-stubborn cases of dandruff often respond to medicated shampoos.
Well! But, before moving on to the million dollar question on How to Get Rid of Dandruff, let’s first understand the Symptoms and causes of Dandruff.
Symptoms of Dandruff
For most teenagers and adults, the symptoms of dandruff can be easily spotted: white, oily-looking flakes of dead skin that can be seen on your hair & shoulders, and a possibly itchy scaly scalp. The condition can worsen during the fall and winter when indoor heating can contribute to dryness of the skin, and improve during the summer.
Most cases of dandruff do not require a visit to the Doctor. However if shampoos and other OTC products available these days do not work it is advisable to see a Dermatologist.
Causes of Dandruff
1.Irritated, oily skin (Seborrheic Dermatitis)
This condition which is one of the most common causes of dandruff is marked by red, greasy skin covered with flaky white or yellow scales. Those who have this condition have irritated, and oily skin and hence are more prone to getting dandruff.Seborrheic dermatitis may affect your scalp and other areas rich in oil glands, such as your eyebrows, the sides of the nose and the backs of your ears, eyebrows, your breastbone (sternum), your groin area, and sometimes your armpits.
A fungus, called Malassezia that lives on the people’s scalp and feeds on the oils that hair follicles secrete is closely linked with Seborrheic Dermatitis. This becomes a problem when in some people the scalp becomes too irritated and starts producing extra skin cells. Then, these additional skin cells die and fall off, and get mixed with the oil from the hair and scalp, forming dandruff.
2.Hair Care Products
Sometimes, certain hair care products like shampoo, gel or serum can also cause a red, itchy and scaling scalp. This is a common misconception that if you do not use shampoo enough, oil and dead skin cells will build up on the scalp, leading to dandruff. Shampooing properly with the right hair care products is essential to prevent dandruff.
3.Dry Skin.
Those who have dry skin are more likely to have dandruff. Cold winter air combined with overheated rooms is one of the causes of itchy, flaky skin. Flakes from dry skin are usually smaller and less oily than those from other causes of dandruff. And, redness or inflammation is unlikely. You’ll probably have dry skin on the other parts of the body, such as your legs and arms, too.
4.Irregular Brushing of Hair
Not doing proper brushing of hair can also increase the risk of dandruff. When you comb your hair regularly, it leads to shedding of skin, and thus it helps in preventing dandruff.
5.Taking a Poor Diet
What you eat reflects your hair condition. If you are not taking enough foods that are packed with vitamins, minerals and zinc, then you are more likely to have dandruff.
6.Medical Conditions
People who suffer from health conditions such as Parkinson’s disease and other neurological illnesses are more likely to have dandruff and Seborrheic Dermatitis.studies have found that people with a weak immune system tend to get more dandruff than others.
7.Mental Stress
Stress is the enemy of your health! Taking stress leads to a number of problems, and dandruff is one of them. One of the causes of dandruff is a weak immune system of the body. When we take too much stress, our immune system gets weak, which may cause dandruff.
So, now that you have gone through the causes of dandruff; it’s time to know How to Get Rid of Dandruff Naturally with simple Home remedies.
Quick and Handy Tips on How to Get Rid of Dandruff Naturally
1.Coconut Oil
We all remember how our dearest grandma used to lather our scalp with coconut oil and we used to hate it a lot. Well, if you really want to let that dandruff slide off your hair, you got to start making coconut oil a part of your beauty regime. This step is surely going to do wonders to your hair in keeping it healthy.
-Wash your hair with regular shampoo and let your hair dry completely. Do not use a hair-dryer to dry your hair and do not use a conditioner. After your hair gets dry, apply the coconut oil directly to your scalp and leave it on for 10 to 15 minutes. Rinse with water properly. Do this remedy once a week in the morning after taking a bath till your dandruff is gone completely.
Why this Remedy Works?
Coconut Oil has regenerative properties because it is loaded with medium-chain fatty acids, which makes it one of the best oils for treating dandruff. Also, it penetrates deep into the epidermis and nourishes the scalp and roots of the hair. This is one of the easiest ways to get rid of dandruff.
–Coconut Oil and Lemon Massage:
Lemon is a very powerful ingredient. It is rich in vitamin and its acidic properties help in keeping the pH levels of the scalp balanced, thereby preventing white flakes. Coconut oil, on the other hand, has antibacterial and conditioning properties that fight off bacteria and keeps the scalp conditioned. Take five teaspoons of coconut oil and add one teaspoon of lemon juice to it. Mix well and massage your scalp with this mixture. Allow it to stay for about half an hour and then wash it off as you usually do.
-Coconut Oil and Almond Oil
Both coconut oil and almond oil contains antibacterial and antifungal properties which keep the scalp healthy and prevent dandruff. How to remove dandruff naturally at home? Just keep coconut oil and almond oil always at your home. Heat almond oil and coconut oil and apply the mixture on your scalp. Rinse off after one hour.
2.Apple Cider Vinegar
It is a very potent solution to dandruff. Due to its acidic nature, it removes any infections from the scalp and removes dandruff.
Ingredients
-Two tablespoons of apple cider vinegar
-15-20 drops of tea tree oil
Process
Take 2 tablespoons each of water and apple cider vinegar and mix them well. Add 15-20 drops of tea tree oil to it. Apply this solution to your scalp and massage gently. Rinse off after 5 minutes. Follow this natural remedy twice or thrice a week.
Why this Works?
Apple cider vinegar can change the pH levels of your scalp due to its acidic properties which in turn hampers the growth of yeast.
A word of Caution: Make sure that this solution does not get into your eyes; and if it does wash your eyes properly immediately. Also, do not try this remedy if you have any scratch or scab on the scalp which is unhealed as it might burn a lot.
3.Olive Oil
Olive oil keeps the scalp moisturised and prevents dandruff. Also, olive oil gets easily absorbed into the scaly areas of the scalp that cause dandruff problems.
Ingredients
-Extra Virgin Olive Oil
Process
Heat some extra virgin olive oil until it is slightly warm. Massage the oil gently using the tips of your fingers onto your scalp. Then wrap your hair in a clean, warm towel. Let the oil stay on your hair for at least 45 minutes. After that, rinse off with a mild shampoo and follow with a conditioner. Repeat this remedy before taking a bath two times a week.
Why this Works
Olive oil keeps the dry areas of the scalp moisturised and prevents them from flaking. Also, it gets absorbed easily and quickly into the scaly areas of the scalp that cause dandruff issues. Because of this, the thick and scaly areas fall away easily as one large piece which helps in treating dandruff easily.
4.Henna or Mehndi
Henna or Mehndi can do wonders in the treatment of Dandruff. Mix Mehndi with tea liquor, curd and a dash of lemon juice. Keep the mixture as it is for around 8 hrs or so and then apply to the Scalp and Hair and leave in on for a couple of Hours for best results and then rinse off with water or a Mild Shampoo.
5.Curd
The curd is known to fight dandruff and can be very effective in natural Dandruff Treatment. Apply it to your hair and scalp and let it stay for about half an hour and then rinse off with a mild Shampoo.
6.Fenugreek Pack
It is a very popular home remedy for the treatment of Dandruff. The effective way to make the most of it is to soak Fenugreek seeds overnight in two cups of hot water and then rinse off the water in the morning. Mash the seeds into a paste and apply to your hair and Scalp and let it be for about an hour or so for best results. Follow this remedy in the morning before taking a bath. Use a mild shampoo to wash your hair.
Why This Works
Fenugreek seeds contain loads of vitamins and minerals which makes it an ideal home remedy to get rid of dandruff easily.
7.Fuller’s Earth or Multani Mitti Hair Pack
If you are still looking for an answer to “How to Get Rid of Dandruff “Fuller’s Earth is the answer.Ithelps in improving blood circulation, which in turn keeps the scalp clean and dandruff-free.
Multani mitti helps to revitalize hair health. This simple remedy can give help you fight dandruff and give you soft, silky hair and dandruff-free hair.
Take one cup of Fuller’s Earth and mix it with enough water to get a smooth paste. Mix in two tablespoons of lemon juice. Apply the mixture properly to your scalp and wait for 20 minutes. Wash it off with water.
8. Orange
Orange is acidic that helps in reducing excess oil. It also keeps the scalp nourished and helps treat dandruff.
-Orange Peel Pack works incredibly well as a homely dandruff treatment.
Ingredients
-A few dry orange peels
– 5-6 tablespoons of lemon juice
Process
Take the orange peels and lemon juice and put them into a food processor. Blend them till you get a fine, smooth paste. Apply this fine paste to your scalp and leave it on for half an hour. Rinse off with a mild shampoo. This remedy is quite effective in getting rid of dandruff, and hence you can do this twice a week in the morning while you take a bath.
Why This Works
The acidic properties in the oranges help in reducing excess oil from the scalp and keep the scalp nourished. This, in turn, helps to get rid of dandruff.
9. Neem or Basil Leaves
Basil leaves possess excellent antibacterial and antifungal properties that keep the scalp healthy and dandruff-free. How to Get Rid of Dandruff! Well, Neem could be your saviour. Neem has anti-bacterial properties and is a fantastic home remedy for dandruff. Just grind some neem leaves in a mixer to form a thick paste and apply this paste on your hair and scalp and leave it alone for 25-30 minutes or so and then wash it off with water or mild shampoo.
– Crush the neem leaves to a powder and then mix this powder with some amount of olive oil in a bowl. Then meticulously apply this mixture to your scalp and let it sit on your hair for about 1 hour. Follow this step by washing your hair with shampoo and then conditioner. The itching sensation that follows, after applying the paste is normal for the skin.
10.Baking Soda
Baking soda is a powerful exfoliant that helps in removing dead skin
Ingredients
-Three tablespoons of fresh lemon juice
-Three tablespoons of baking soda
-One bowl of apple cider vinegar
Process
Take all the ingredients and mix them in a bowl to form a smooth paste. Apply the paste to your scalp. Let the mixture stay for about ten minutes and then wash your hair with water. Apple cider vinegar can be used as a conditioner. Follow this natural treatment once a week before taking a bath.
Why This Works
Baking soda acts as a mild exfoliant, and therefore it helps in removing dead skin cells. It also absorbs excess oil and balance pH levels on the scalp. Baking soda also reduces the growth of fungi that cause dandruff.
11.Lemon Juice
The secret lies inside your refrigerator, people. Simply squeeze out some lemon juice in a bowl and distribute evenly on the scalp. To let it do its magic, keep that juice on your hair for 20-25 mins. Feeling little tingly or itchy is normal because that’s all about lemon juice’s Ph that starts reacting with the grease inside your hair. After this, wash the hair thoroughly. One can also use mild shampoo after washing off that juice from your hair.
12. Aspirin
I bet you must be pondering now how aspirin, which is used for a headache, can also cure dandruff. You just need two tablets of aspirin to get rid of all that greasiness from your hair. Crush the tablets and mix this powder with a little amount of your shampoo in a bowl. Shampoo your hair, as usual, using this mixture, which should be left on the scalp for about 2 minutes. Rinse off with water afterwards. Aspirin works because it contains salicylates that help in vanishing dandruff from your hair.
13.Yoghurt
Still not getting your answer on How to Get Rid of Dandruff. Try using Yogurt-It is a miracle milk product that works wonders for your skin and hair. It moisturises your scalp well and has anti-bacterial properties.W ho doesn’t love to eat yoghurt? Fortunately, your hair loves it and needs it too. All that yeast build-up in our hair can be prevented by the application of yoghurt to the scalp.
-Shampoo your hair and rinse properly. Then apply 1 cup of yoghurt into your hair scalp and leave for about 15-20 mins. Follow this step with proper rinsing and washing hair with a little amount of shampoo. One of the causes of dandruff is the build-up of yeast on the skin. Yoghurt prevents scaling of the scalp and is a good source of probiotics, which prevents the development of yeast and hence is one of the best ways to get rid of dandruff naturally.
-Yoghurt and Lemon Juice
Ingredients
-One small bowl of curd
-A half-cute lemon
Process
Squeeze half a lemon into the curd and blend well. Apply the mixture to your hair and leave it on for 10 minutes. Wash your hair with shampoo. Follow this simple and effective remedy three to four times a week in the morning while you take a bath.
Why This Works
Lemon juice contains citric acid which fights dandruff. It is also antimicrobial which prevents infections.
-Mix two teaspoonful of grounded pepper into a cup of yoghurt. Apply it to your hair and scalp and rinse it off after an hour. Use a mild shampoo after that. The pepper acts as a strong anti-fungal and keeps dandruff at bay.
14.Tea Tree Oil
It is a wonderful essential oil. It is a very strong antibacterial and anti-fungal ingredient. While implementing it on your scalp, you need to dilute it with a base oil, be it coconut oil or almond oil. Regular application will eradicate dandruff from your scalp forever!
15. Garlic
Garlic possesses antifungal properties that help in eliminating the microbes that cause dandruff. Take two to three garlic cloves and crush them. Mix the crushed garlic cloves with one tablespoon of honey to form a smooth paste. Massage this paste into your scalp. Keep it on for 15 minutes and shampoo your hair as usual.
16. Vinegar
Vinegar has acidic properties that help in reducing the itchiness of the scalp. Also, vinegar helps kill scalp fungus and bacteria. Boil two cups of vinegar and then let it cool. Mix one-eighth of vinegar with a cup of water. Massage your scalp with this mixture. Shampoo your hair as you usually do after 10 minutes.
17. Apple Juice
You will be surprised to know that apples help in treating dandruff too. How to remove dandruff naturally? Use apple juice! Apples contain natural compounds that promote hair growth and prevents dandruff. Simply, take two tablespoons of apple juice and mix it with two tablespoons of water. Apply the mixture to your scalp. Rinse it off with a mild shampoo after 15 minutes.
18.Aloe Vera
Aloe vera has fungicidal and antibacterial properties that fight the infection and removes the dead skin so that it does not appear later as dandruff. Take some fresh aloe vera gel and apply it on your scalp. Wait for 15 minutes. Wash it off with a mild shampoo.
19.Ginger
Ginger possesses anti-inflammatory properties that stimulate hair growth. On top of that, ginger has active components like volatile oils that help in preventing dandruff. Take a small piece of ginger and start grating it. Done? Now, squeeze it in a fresh cheesecloth to get the oil. Now, mix the ginger oil with four ounces of sesame oil. Mix well and apply this mixture to the scalp. Wait for some time and then wash it off with a mild shampoo.
20.Green Tea
Green tea contains catechins that have excellent antifungal properties that keep the scalp healthy. Other than that, it contains antioxidants that keep the scalp dandruff-free. For this remedy, you will need two green tea bags and one cup of hot water. Steep the green tea for 20 minutes and allow it to cool. Once it cools down, apply the decoction on your scalp. Rinse it off with water after half an hour.
21. Amla Powder and Tea Powder
Combine one teaspoon henna, one teaspoon amla powder, one teaspoon lemon juice, one teaspoon tea powder and one teaspoon hair oil. Mix all the ingredients thoroughly. Now, start applying the mixture to your scalp. Wash it off using a mild shampoo after a few minutes.
Apart from the home remedies, there are also some additional tips on How to Get Rid of Dandruff which you should follow. Here are the Tips
1. Make Few Dietary Changes
Diet plays a significant role when it comes to maintaining a healthy skin and healthy hair. When it comes to dandruff, there are certain foods that contain zinc, Omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins and selenium which are beneficial in getting rid of the problem. So, incorporate these into your diet by eating more of the following foods:
-Zinc- Red meat, beans, nuts, whole grains, dairy products and fortified cereals.
-Omega-3 fatty acids- Salmon, tuna, walnuts, flaxseed, broccoli, spinach, cauliflower, kiwi and kidney beans
-B vitamins- Fish, milk, legumes, whole-grain cereals, broccoli, cabbage, eggs and sweet potatoes
Also, eat more fruits and drink plenty of water to keep your scalp hydrated.
2.Manage Stress
If you want to deal with dandruff, then you must beat the stress, or else it will make the condition worse. It is not easy to deal with stress, but the following tips may help you on How to Get Rid of Dandruff:
-Think positive and if you get negative thoughts about anything, question them and replace them with positive thoughts.
-Give time to your hobbies. Spend time on what you enjoy the most.
-Try deep breathing exercises.
-Engage in physical activities
-Talk to your friend about the thoughts which are causing stress.
-Surround yourself with supportive and positive people
-Seek the help of a professional therapist if you are not able to manage stress by yourself.
3. Get Exposed to Sunlight
Medical experts recommend people suffering from eczema and psoriasis to spend some time in the sun. It is because these experts believe that getting exposed to sunlight may be helpful in treating skin conditions, including dandruff. But, make sure not to spend too much time under the sun as getting too much exposure to sunlight can damage the skin. Thus, it is always recommended to feel the early morning sunshine when the sun rays are not too strong and that too for a few minutes. Additionally, you can also wear a sunscreen and properly cover your body while you step out in the sun.
4.Wash your Hair Properly
It is crucial to adopt good hygiene practices so as to prevent hair problems and keep your hair healthy. Thus, wash your hair three times a week properly and do not forget to condition your hair. It is best to use an anti-dandruff shampoo to get rid of dandruff.
5. Avoid Using Hair Styling Products
Yes, in this modern era where fashion rules all; it is hard not to use styling products such as hair wax, hair spray, and hair gel. But, you must know the downside of these products too! If you have a dandruff problem, then you must be well aware of the fact that these products lead to a build-up of oil on your hair and scalp, which eventually leads to the development of dandruff. So, using these hair styling products once in a blue moon is fine; but don’t overdo it as it may cause problems!
So, if you are still thinking on How to Get Rid of Dandruff! Then you surely know by now that it is not all that difficult to get rid of dandruff- So what are you waiting for? Use these tips and bid farewell to those ugly white flakes. Home remedies are economical means to cure your hair and skin problems without any side effects. However, the most important thing is to make sure that you use these home remedies at least two to three times a week for the results to show in fast. Once you start using these easy to perform home remedies and see the results, you will be motivated to keep using it on a regular basis for an effective Dandruff Treatment.
A Healthy diet along with a healthy lifestyle reduces the chances of having hair problems like itchy scalp. Washing hair every day and drinking loads of water ensures healthy hair. However, if your Dandruff persists then do not hesitate to consult a good Dermatologist.
Hope this blog was able to answer your queries on How to Get Rid of Dandruff. Now, do not let those white flakes obstruct you in looking fabulous. Go and give your hair the treatment that it needs to treat yourself with non-greasy, non-irritating, shiny and voluminous locks!
