Dandruff: How to get rid of it?
Dandruff is a common hair problem faced by many people, with a flaky and itchy scalp being the most common symptoms. Dandruff is, in simple terms, the accumulation of dead skin cells on the scalp, leading to its dryness. A little care and attention towards hair hygiene, along with some quick remedies, can help you get rid of dandruff easily. This article covers everything you need to know about dandruff and how to get rid of it.
Causes of Dandruff
Dandruff is caused due to multiple reasons, including but not limited to:
- Dry Skin
- Fungal Infections like Malassezia
- Reaction to Hair Products
- Oily Scalp
- Stress
Understanding the root cause of dandruff helps you tackle the issue better.
Home Remedies to Get Rid of Dandruff
You don’t always need to visit a dermatologist for treating dandruff. Home remedies too can work like wonders in treating dandruff. Here are some easy and quick natural remedies that you can try at home:
1. Tea Tree Oil
Tea tree oil has antifungal, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory properties that help fight against the fungus present on the scalp, reducing dandruff. Add a few drops of tea tree oil to shampoo and then wash hair as usual
2. Aloe Vera Gel
Aloe Vera Gel is known to soothe the scalp and reduce skin inflammation that can lead to dandruff. Apply the gel directly on the scalp and rinse it after 15-20 minutes.
3. Baking Soda
The exfoliating nature of baking soda helps reduce the dead skin cell buildup on the scalp, reducing dandruff production. Mix a tablespoon baking soda with water till you get a paste. Use this paste to massage your scalp, leave it on for 5-10 minutes before rinsing off.
4. Lemon Juice
Lemon, being a natural antifungal and astringent, helps reduce dandruff. Mix a few drops of lemon juice with some oil, such as coconut oil or olive oil, and apply it to the scalp.
5. Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. It also helps rebalance pH levels and reduce the growth of Malassezia. Mix ACV with water, spray it on your scalp, massage, and then rinse with water.
6. Neem Leaves
Neem leaves characterized by antifungal and antibacterial properties for treating dandruff. Boil a handful of neem leaves in 4 cups of water, strain the water, and let it cool. Use this water to rinse your hair while bathing.
7. Honey
Being antimicrobial and soothing, honey helps reducing scalp issues, including dandruff. Apply honey directly or mix it with shampoo before washing your hair.
How To Use Home Remedies
Each remedy has an individual set of instructions to follow. For example, tea tree oil requires a few drops added to the shampoo while neem leaves require boiling, straining, and cooling before rinsing. Be sure to follow the instructions carefully for fruitful results. Additionally, people should take care of possible allergies or skin reactions they might experience while trying out these remedies.
When To See A Dermatologist
If home remedies fail to work, it’s time to visit the dermatologist. Doctors might prescribe you with some medicated shampoos or medicines specific to your scalp condition. So, if you notice no considerable changes after a few trials with home remedies, make sure to fix an appointment with your doctor, rather than continuing to suffer from the issue and its unpleasant symptoms.
Conclusion
Dandruff might be annoying and embarrassing, but it is entirely curable. Home remedies such as tea tree oil, aloe vera gel, and baking soda can considerably reduce the symptoms of dandruff if used correctly. With a little bit of patience and the proper care, you can get rid of dandruff and flaunt your lustrous, healthy hair once again.
Further references:
For more information, you can refer to books such as The Complete Hair Book by Philip Kingsley and websites such as the American Academy of Dermatology (aad.org).
