Globally, dandruff has been encountered by most individuals with a shared scalp ailment. Dandruff is a condition where skin flakes from the scalp. People always look for at-home remedies regarding dandruff conditions that are useful, if not side effect-free protective. When your whole head boils and flakes, itching, irritation, and redness occur. Dandruff seems trivial, but it can have a massive effect on daily self-confidence and comfort. There are types of home remedies to reduce dandruff and soothe an itchy scalp.
Home remedies against dandruff help people sort out their flakiness, irritation, and redness. This dandruff pet peeve may seem trivial but can majorly affect everyday confidence levels and comfort. There are ways in which people apply home remedies for dandruff and also help them reduce their flaking scalp and relieve that itchy feeling.
What Causes Dandruff?
Dandruff is related to seborrheic dermatitis (SD), which causes itchy and flaky skin on the scalp. It can cause different types of symptoms in the scalp skin. Here are mentioned different types of causes of dandruff that are:
- Diet and Lifestyle:- In a situation where diet or lifestyle is not properly managed, deficiency in essential nutrients such as omega 3, vitamin B, zinc, and fatty acids can lead to dandruff. Dehydration, sleep deprivation, and stress aggravate scalp problems. Hence, a good diet, along with hydration and stress management, should be done to create a conducive environment for scalp health.
- Dry Scalp:- Consequently, a dry scalp can Elicit dandruff and itchiness. The scalp will usually be lack of enough oil produced naturally to keep it hydrated. The result is flakiness along with drying and irritation. It is likely to create skin flakes that will create dandruff. The dry scalp occurs more often during winter when dry indoor air strikes with heating appliances that tend to suck moisture off the scalp.
- Fungal Infections:- Fungal infections can be caused by the Malassezia fungus. This fungus can lead to itchy scalp and dandruff. It already exists in our scalp and overgrowth can cause irritation, inflammation, and flaking.
- Skin Conditions:- Skin conditions such as eczema, psoriasis and seborrheic dermatitis are common causes of itchy scalp and dandruff. Seborrheic dermatitis produces yellowish scales, and greasy, while psoriasis and eczema produce scaly, dry patches.
- Product Buildup:- If you are using any hair care products such as shampoo, conditioners and styling your hair with gel can cause scalp and dandruff. These product remnants can clog hair follicles and lead to irritation. Applying in large amounts can cause chemical buildup in the head scalp.
Symptoms Of Dandruff
When the air is dry in the fall and winter months dandruff can worsen during these days. Some of symptoms of dandruff include:
- Itching
- Scaly scalp
- Irritated patches on the scalp’s skin
- Dandruff in eyebrow
- Hair loss
- Visible white or yellowish flakes of skin on the shoulders and in the hair
Home Remedies to Get Rid of Dandruff Naturally
There are several types of over the counter (OTC) products, but home remedies may be more effective to get rid of dandruff naturally. Some of the remedies which can improve person’s scalp and hair health that are:
1. Coconut Oil
Coconut oil helps to moisturize the scalp and hair. It can be used as a natural remedy for dandruff symptoms, dry and itchy scalps. This oil is rich in fatty acids and vitamins. It is also an alternative skin care product. It is an easily available and affordable natural home remedy. Massage it on your scalp or hair in small amounts and leave it for 30 to 60 minutes and after that wash with a herbal shampoo.
2. Aloe Vera
Aloe Vera is a natural remedy for dandruff due to its anti-inflammatory, antifungal, moisturising and soothing properties. It reduces the inflammation, and fights against dandruff that causes fungal or bacterial infections. You can mix it with other ingredients such as lemon juice, apple cider vinegar etc for more benefits. Extract fresh aloe vera and apply it directly on your scalp. Wash it after 20-30 minutes with lukewarm water for soothing effects.
3. Tea Tree Oil
Tea tree oil has antibacterial and antifungal properties. It contains many compounds that are effective against a type of yeast which is called Malassezia globosa. Don’t use pure tea tree oil on your scalp, it can cause irritation and itching on the scalp. Gently massage this diluted oil on your scalp. It targets the root cause of the itching, flaking and particularly in the case of fungal infections. After applying the oil, keep the oil on your scalp for at least 30 minutes for better results.
4. Lemon Juice
Lemon juice gives citric acid, vitamin c, flavonoid, and iron, which are all nutrients for the health of our hair and skin. It is a natural antiseptic and antimicrobial that kills dead skin cells and combats dandruff. Citric acid composition in the lemon can cure dryness, itching and dandruff efficiently. It can only achieve this by keeping the pH balance of the scalp, and by this, it helps in minimizing itchiness and flakiness. If it is used regularly, it can maintain the condition of the scalp and minimize the dandruff.
5. Yogurt
Yogurt is a helpful natural home remedy for dandruff because it has moisturizing and pH-balancing properties. It certainly balances and soothes the itchy and dry scalp. Some studies show that yogurt accommodates anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory effects that can help lessen dandruff. Yogurt contains probiotics that help to improve healthy scalp conditions and dandruff. It also contains vitamin B5 and D which are used to strengthen the hair follicles.
Conclusion
With home remedies, you can get relief from itchy scalp, dryness etc. It is also a frequent disorder in most individuals and across the globe. Nonetheless, applying home remedies that are natural like coconut oil, lemon juice, yogurt might offer relief and help ease dandruff symptoms. If you notice any side effects or allergic response towards your skin, you need to consult with physicians or dermatologists.