Dandruff is a common scalp condition that typically manifests as itching and flaking of the scalp. This is a multifactorial hair and skin problem that can stem from an inflammatory response to yeast, a normal part of the skin flora, in the form of white scales on the scalp.
If you’re dealing with dandruff, the best thing to do is to see a certified dermatologist and get to the root of the problem. However, if you’re first interested in some safe ways to DIY mild dandruff treatment at home, then there are a few options you can choose from.
What Causes Dandruff?
There are many factors that contribute to dandruff, from improper hair care to stress to genetics. However, the main cause of this common scalp disorder is excessive sebum production and the fungus that feeds on it. We secrete sebum onto the scalp and yeast (fungus) interacts with sebum. The body perceives this interaction as an irritant and rapidly increases the production of skin cells that shed and form dandruff.
The Best DIY Treatment for Dandruff
Baking soda dandruff shampoo
The rough texture of baking soda adsorbs and removes dirt and excess oil from the hair as well as loose scalp skin cells that cause dandruff. However, keep in mind that this treatment should be used with caution. The pH of baking soda is alkaline and can destroy the hair’s natural pH. It dries out the hair and elevates the stratum corneum, which exposes the hair and makes it susceptible to damage over time. Repeat once a week or every four to five shampoos, with occasional additional deep cleansing. While your hair may initially feel dry, after a few weeks, your scalp will begin to produce more of its natural oils and your hair’s softness will return.
- Add one tablespoon of baking soda to each cup of water and stir to combine.
- Add two to three drops of rosemary essential oil to give this shampoo a subtle scent. (Note: It’s not an essential ingredient, but it’s a great addition.) ）
- Pour it over your hair and massage into your scalp.
- Rinse hair thoroughly.
Tip: Use an empty (clean) shampoo bottle to make this mixture and have it ready for daily use in the shower. If you want to skip mixing, you can also rub a handful of baking soda directly onto wet hair and scalp.
Apple cider vinegar rinse
Another DIY anti-dandruff method is more of a rinse than shampoo. Apple cider vinegar can help remove buildup from the scalp, balance the pH levels of the scalp and hair, and help close the cuticle for shinier hair. Vinegar can also help wash away dead skin cells while soothing the scalp. It’s also great for healthy hair!
Add one part apple cider vinegar to one part warm water. (Note: Most people will do the trick with one cup, but people with long, thick hair may need one or more cups.) ）
- Pour vinegar water over your hair and gently massage into your hair and scalp for three to five minutes.
- Rinse with water, but be careful not to get vinegar in your eyes!
- Repeat the rinse twice a week until dandruff is under control. After that, consider rinsing once a week or two weeks.
Tip: This rinse may leave a lingering aroma until you bathe again. Therefore, it is best to do this care a few hours before going to bed and take a bath in the morning.
Lemon and sweet almond oil treatment
Similar to vinegar shampooing, lemon is also an inexpensive way to get rid of dandruff, as citric acid helps remove excess oil from the scalp. However, if lemon is too alkaline, it may damage hair or sensitive scalp, so it’s best to use lemon essential oil to reap the benefits of citric acid. After that, nourish your hair with sweet almond oil as a leave-in conditioner.
- Simply mix a few drops of lemon essential oil with two tablespoons of sweet almond oil.
- Gently massage the scalp before getting into the shower and washing your hair with shampoo.
- Do this every day until it’s no longer needed.
Honey anti-dandruff shampoo
Honey is a great scalp cleanser because it has antibacterial, antifungal benefits, and is gentle on the scalp. Adding honey to your homemade dandruff shampoo balances the pH of your scalp and eliminates dandruff while leaving your hair soft and shiny.
- Mix one tablespoon of raw raw honey with 1/4 cup of water in a cup or squeeze bottle.
- You can also add a tablespoon of aloe vera gel for an extra soothing effect, although this is optional.
- Shake well and apply the honey shampoo to wet hair and massage for one minute.
- Rinse thoroughly.
- Repeat weekly.
Coconut oil dandruff shampoo
Coconut oil is an excellent ingredient for moisturizing the hair and scalp. Plus, it’s rich in essential vitamins E and K, and its high percentage of lauric acid may help control dandruff. Coconut oil has some anti-inflammatory effects that can help moisturize the scalp, but beware: if dandruff is severe, it won’t work very well. It’s best to talk to your doctor.
- Mix one part coconut oil and one part jojoba oil in a container.
- Apply the mixture to the scalp and hair as needed.
- Massage for a few minutes, then cover your hair with a shower cap for at least 30 minutes.
- Then rinse thoroughly with shampoo.
- Repeat at least once a week.
Ingredients to Look out for in Dandruff Treatment
As we mentioned earlier, dandruff can be caused by a variety of reasons. Finding the best treatment first requires identifying the root cause. Evaluate possible causes of dandruff, such as possible changes in diet or hair care products. In addition to using a hair cleanser that is specifically designed to remove dead skin cells and reduce the growth of new cells, take corrective action.
To predict whether dandruff treatment will be effective, it’s important to evaluate the product’s ingredients. Hair cleansers with coal tar are effective in treating dandruff. In general, moisturizing ingredients with antifungal and anti-inflammatory properties will be the best choice to fight dandruff.
Ingredients to Avoid in Dandruff Treatment
If you decide to go the store-bought option, or if you’re considering modifying your recipe, be aware that some ingredients may do more harm than good.
- Fragrances: Depending on the source of dandruff, sensitizers such as fragrances may trigger dandruff.
- Intensive chemical exfoliators: Strong acids may irritate the scalp, exacerbating the dryness and flakiness you’re trying to remedy. This may sound counterintuitive, as AHAs (α hydroxy acids) such as glycolic acid or lactic acid are commonly used in scalp scrubs to exfoliate the skin. However, when it comes to sensitizers, people react differently to different concentrations and types, so it’s best to understand your individual needs.
- Parabens: Parabens – while widely considered safe by the dermatological community – may cause them to build up on the scalp.
- Sulfates: Sulfates are compounds that produce pleasant foams and may also increase dandruff because they strip away natural oils, exacerbate dryness and cause bacteria to build. Occlusive ingredients such as mineral oil can also cause dandruff due to excessive product buildup.
Conclusion
Whether your dandruff is accompanied by dandruff, dryness, itching, or irritation, you’ll have peace of mind knowing that there is a homemade treatment available to relieve dandruff. Familiar, all-natural ingredients can promote scalp health while eliminating stress caused by exposure to foreign chemicals, and we understand that stress is just another factor that exacerbates dandruff. So, grab a bowl of dandruff and say goodbye to dandruff right away – your scalp and wallet will thank you.