19 Natural Ways to Get Rid Of Dandruff

Black is one of the most elegant colors that most people love to wear. But if you have the dandruff problem, then wearing a black dress might make you feel low due to those tiny flakes falling on your black dress constantly. Dandruff, also known as Seborrhoea in medical terms is a condition that primarily weakens the scalp. The reasons why dandruff might be occurring, are many ranging from stress, to dry skin, and poor hair brushing. Dandruff can hurt your behavior in public. So now, what to do to treat dandruff? Well, we have some natural remedies that you can try. Read below to know about getting rid of dandruff naturally.

Dandruff is a condition affecting up to 50% of people. ⁽¹⁾ One of the most common signs of dandruff is itchy scalp and flakiness. However, there might also be other symptoms, such as greasy patches on your scalp and tingling skin.

Dry skin, sensitivity to hair products, seborrheic dermatitis, and the growth of a specific type of fungus that lives on the scalp, are some of the causes of dandruff. Though there are several OTC products for treating dandruff, there are also many effective natural remedies for getting rid of dandruff naturally.

1. Apply Aloe Vera:

   Aloe vera is frequently added to several skin ointments, lotions, and cosmetics. It is a type of succulent and when it is applied to your skin, is believed to help in treating skin conditions, such as psoriasis and cold sores.⁽²⁾ Aloe Vera is also known to treat dandruff naturally. As per a review, the anti-fungal and antibacterial properties of aloe vera are known to protect against dandruff.⁽³⁾

   Similarly, a test-tube study has also found that aloe vera was effective against various species of fungi, and might also help in controlling fungal infections causing hair loss from the scalp. There are test-tube studies, which have found that aloe vera can reduce inflammation, which might relieve symptoms.⁽⁴⁾ However, it is still required to have some additional studies to look at the fact of how aloe vera might affect dandruff directly.

2. Apply Henna/Mehndi:

   You can also use henna or mehndi for getting rid of dandruff naturally. Henna works well on your hair and helps in softening it. You can prepare henna or mehndi mix for your hair by first mixing henna with curd and a bit of lemon juice. This paste when prepared, is to be kept for 8 hours and then to be applied on your hair. Allow it to dry for two hours and then wash it away. You can get rid of dandruff naturally by using Mehndi frequently.

3. Tea Tree Oil:

   Tea tree oil is known to be used for treating various ailments ranging from psoriasis to acne naturally. Tea tree oil is also known to have potential anti-inflammatory and anti-microbial properties, which might help to alleviate dandruff symptoms.⁽⁵⁾ According to a review, this oil is found to be effective at fighting the specific strain of fungus causing both dandruff and seborrheic dermatitis.⁽⁶⁾ Make a note that tea tree oil can result in irritation in people having sensitive skin. So, you should dilute the oil first by adding a few drops to any carrier oil like coconut oil before applying the oil to your skin directly.

4. Apply Coconut Oil:

   There are several health benefits of coconut oil. Coconut oil might help in improving skin hydration and prevent dryness that might worsen dandruff naturally. As per a small study of 34 individuals, it has been shown that coconut oil was as effective as mineral oil in improving skin hydration.⁽⁷⁾ There is also research, that has found that this oil could help to treat eczema or a skin condition that might contribute to dandruff.

5. Use Olive Oil:

   Olive oil can also be an effective naturally remedy for your hair health. You need to apply the oil on your hair regularly. This would strengthen your scalp. To prepare olive oil for applying on the hair to get rid of dandruff, you need to apply some olive oil on your hair at first and then after 10 minutes wash your head with a gentle shampoo.

6. Use Lemongrass Oil:

   Lemongrass and lemongrass oil have been used traditionally for treating digestive problems, reduce stress, and lower blood pressure. Lemongrass oil is known for its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties that might help in reducing symptoms of dandruff. As per the findings of a small study that was published in the year 2015, it was found that hair tonics containing 10% of lemongrass oil reduced dandruff by 81% after 2 weeks.⁽⁸⁾

   It must be noted that lemongrass oil might cause skin irritation or allergic reactions if you apply it directly to your skin. So, you can dilute the oil with water or can mix a few drops of the oil into your regular shampoo or conditioner and can use it.

7. Apply Basil Leaves:

   One of the best ways of getting rid of dandruff naturally could be the use of basil leaves. This is because basil leaves have antibacterial and anti-fungal properties and they can cure heavy dandruff issues. These leaves are also beneficial for making your scalp strong and healthy.

   For preparing basil leaves to cure dandruff and many other hair-related issues, you would firstly need some basil leaves, 2 teaspoons of amla powder, and 2 teaspoons of water to be mixed all together to form a paste. You have to apply this paste gently over your scalp and allow it to dry for 30 minutes before washing it off. Make sure to repeat this daily to witness the difference.

8. Use Apple Cider Vinegar:

   Apple cider vinegar or ACV has been linked with a lot of health benefits. Some of the benefits include improving insulin sensitivity and helping in weight loss.^{(9, 10)} Apple cider vinegar is also used as a natural remedy for getting rid of dandruff. The acidity of the apple cider vinegar is known to help stimulate the shedding of dead skin cells on the scalp. ACV is also known to balance the pH of the skin for reducing the growth of fungus and helps in fighting dandruff. However, no studies support these claims. If you want to give ACV a try then simply add a few tablespoons of the vinegar to your shampoo or just combine it with other essential oils and spray it onto your hair directly.

9. Apply Paste Of Fenugreek Seeds and Lemon Juice:

   You can also try fenugreek seeds as a preventive cure for symptoms of dandruff. You should follow the right process to use these seeds for treating dandruff naturally. Firstly, you should put some fenugreek seeds or methi seeds in a small bowl of water and leave it to soak overnight. In the morning, mash the seeds to form a paste-like substance and then add a little lemon juice to it and mix it well. Now, apply this paste onto your scalp and hair and allow it to dry for 30 minutes. You can then wash your hair with shampoo and let your hair dry.

10. Use Egg Yolk:

    Egg yolk has biotin in it, which is the major vitamin that helps in treating dandruff. Egg yolks can act as conditioners for the hair and thus can make your hair healthier.

    For preparing the egg yolk to be used as a natural remedy for getting rid of dandruff, you have to remove the white layer surrounding the yolk. Make sure that you are keeping your scalp and your hair dry and then applying the egg yolk on your hair. Once you have applied the egg yolk, cover your hair with a plastic bag for 60 minutes, and then wash your head using a gentle shampoo. You might require washing your head twice for removing the bad odor. You should use this natural remedy thrice a week.

11. Apply Neem Juice:

    One of the best cure for treating dandruff is Neem. Neem is present in many shampoos as one of the primary ingredients.

    For preparing Neem juice for your hair you would require to crush few Neem leaves for making it a thick paste and then apply it on your hair and scalp. Let it dry for at least 10 minutes before washing it off with some water.

12. Apply The Paste Of Orange Peel:

    Orange peel can also work well in treating dandruff naturally. Orange peel contains minerals like calcium, magnesium, and vitamin A, and dietary fibers, known to be good for the body. Orange peel, when used properly can also help you to get rid of dandruff. Take the orange peel and squeeze some lemon juice onto it and grind this well to form a paste. Now, apply this paste on your hair and scalp and allow it to dry for 30 minutes. Once it is done, you can wash it off using some anti-dandruff shampoo.

13. Use Baking Soda:

    Baking soda is found in our kitchen. This could be a quick and easy natural remedy for getting rid of dandruff. It is believed to act as a gentle exfoliant for removing dead skin cells and reducing itchiness and scaling. Baking soda is known for its anti-fungal properties that could be essential for treating dandruff.

    As per a test-tube study that measured the antifungal effects of baking soda on a few of the common strains of fungus causing skin infections, it was found that baking soda was able to inhibit the fungal growth completely in 79% of specimens after 7 days.⁽¹¹⁾ One more study looked at the effects of baking soda on 31 patients with psoriasis. Treating with baking soda baths was found to reduce itchiness and skin irritation significantly after 3 weeks.

    Treatment guidelines for several conditions like atopic dermatitis, also notes that baking soda baths could help in offering some relief from itchiness.⁽¹²⁾ For getting the best results, apply baking soda directly to wet hair and gently massage into your scalp. Allow it to sit for about 1-2 minutes and then continue to wash your hair with any shampoo.

14. Apply Garlic Paste:

    Garlic is a great source that can be used to treat dandruff naturally. It has excellent anti-fungal properties that can eliminate various dangerous microbes that cause dandruff. For preparing garlic paste you need to initially take a few garlic cloves along with 1 tablespoon of honey. Mix these well and form a smooth paste. Then apply the paste on your hair and scalp and allow it to dry for 15 minutes before rinsing your hair with shampoo.

15. Use Aspirin:

    Aspirin can also help in getting rid of dandruff naturally. Salicylic acid is a primary compound present in aspirin that is known for its anti-inflammatory properties.⁽¹³⁾ Salicylic acid is also present in several anti-dandruff shampoos. Salicylic acid works by helping you get rid of scaly skin and loosening flakes, that could be removed easily.⁽¹⁴⁾ For using aspirin to treat dandruff naturally crush 2 tablets of aspirin and add the powder to the shampoo that you are using to wash your hair. This would help you to a great extent.

16. Add More Probiotics:

    Probiotics are beneficial bacteria that are known to be good for our health. There are a lot of probiotic benefits, such as protection against allergies, lowering levels of cholesterol, and helping in weight loss.^{(15, 16)} Probiotics might also help in enhancing your immune function, which in turn could help your body fight against the fungal infections causing dandruff.⁽¹⁷⁾

    A study has shown that taking probiotics for 56 days reduced the severity of dandruff significantly in 60 people. Probiotics have also been known to help symptoms of various skin conditions, such as dermatitis and eczema, especially in children and infants. You can find probiotics in supplement form for a quick dose. You can also find probiotics in several types of fermented foods like Kimchi, Kombucha, natto, and tempeh.

17. Improve Taking Omega-3 Fatty Acids:

    An important role is played by the Omega-3 fatty acids in our body. These omega-3 fatty acids not only make up the cell membranes surrounding the cells, but they are also essential for the proper functioning of the heart, lungs, and immune system. ⁽¹⁸⁾

    Omega-3 fatty acids are also important for skin health. They aid manage oil production and hydration, promote healing of the wound, and prevent premature aging.⁽¹⁹⁾ A deficiency in these fatty acids can result in an array of symptoms, including dry skin, dry hair, and even dandruff.⁽²⁰⁾

    Omega-3 fatty acids can even help in reducing inflammation, which might help in relieving irritation and symptoms of dandruff. Some of the fatty fish, including trout, salmon, and mackerel are excellent sources of omega-3 fatty acids. Fish oil supplements can also be taken or you can also take various foods like walnuts, chia seeds, and flaxseeds, which are rich in Omega-3 fatty acids.

18. Zinc Supplements:

    Zinc is a mineral that helps in supporting the functioning of the immune system and promoting cell growth. You can get zinc from animal proteins, whole grains, and nuts. According to the NIH, it has been found that severe zinc deficiencies are linked with conditions like hair loss, diarrhea, impotence and skin lesions.⁽²¹⁾ A comprehensive review from the year 2016 has listed that zinc deficiency as an important contributing factor for dandruff and seborrheic dermatitis.⁽²²⁾ Several dandruff shampoos have zinc pyrithione, as it prevents fungal growth and also removes excess skin cells from your scalp. Zinc supplements can be purchased from drug stores.

19. Reduce Stress Levels:

    One of the most important things you need to know is to reduce stress levels. Stress is known to impact several aspects of health and overall well-being. It can influence everything, from mental health to chronic conditions.⁽²³⁾ Though stress itself does not result in dandruff, it can aggravate the symptoms like itching and dryness.⁽²⁴⁾

    Sustaining high-stress levels for a long time might suppress the activity of the immune system. A weakened immune system can lower the ability of your body to fight off some of the fungal infections and skin problems that result in dandruff. A study of 82 people having seborrheic dermatitis (one of the major causes of dandruff) has shown that the majority of dermatitis episodes were preceded by something causing stress.⁽²⁵⁾ For keeping your stress levels under control, you must try some stress-reducing techniques, like yoga, meditation, aromatherapy or deep breathing.

No doubt, dandruff can lower your self-esteem in public; however, you can try any of the above-mentioned ways to get rid of dandruff naturally.

But keep it noted that if you are suffering seriously bad dandruff issues or if the symptoms of dandruff do not leave even after trying the home remedies, you should consult your doctor and know about the best anti-dandruff shampoos and other prescribed remedies.

References:

Also Read:

• What Causes Dandruff on Face & How to Get Rid of It?
• What Causes Dandruff & How To Get Rid Of It?
• How Long Does it Take to Cure Dandruff?
• What Are The Home Remedies To Get Rid Of Dandruff?
• Do’s and Don’ts To Get Rid of Dandruff
• Is Neem Oil Actually Good for Dandruff?
• 7 Ways To Reduce Dandruff Using Neem Oil