Dandruff is known by its flaking of the skin on the scalp caused by a skin condition called seborrheic dermatitis, or other conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, or an overgrowth of a yeast-like fungus. Whatever the cause, most will agree that having dandruff is both very annoying and also embarrassing to say the least. And even though there are quite a few products available to treat most chronic scalp conditions, some of these products may cause bigger problems due to allergic reactions to some synthetic ingredients they contain. Here are several natural and easy remedies that have been known to not only treat that pesky dandruff issue but have also been known to leave the hair more healthier, too.
- Apple Cider Vinegar Remedy. Of the many causes of dandruff, one is the excessive yeast growth that grows on the scalp. Apple cider vinegar, when applied to the hair and scalp, will change the pH balance of the scalp due to the acid it contains. In a clean spray bottle, pour a mixture of 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar and 1/4 cup water then spray onto your hair and scalp. After spraying, wrap your head with a towel and leave it on for about 30 minutes to an hour. Afterward, wash your hair with a non alcohol-based shampoo, or wash hair with a conditioner only. *Be careful to avoid ears and eyes when spraying onto hair.
- Plain Yogurt, Lemon, Chickpea Flour Remedy. Combine in a bowl 1/4 cup plain yogurt, 1/4 cup chickpea flour (gram flour), and 1/4 cup lemon juice. Mix the combined ingredients well then apply to hair, thoroughly massaging into your scalp. Do this for about 15 – 20 minutes then wash hair clean with a non alcohol-based shampoo, or with a conditioner only. * Be careful to avoid ears and eyes when applying to hair. Benefits of yogurt for both skin and hair.
- Coconut or Olive Oil Remedy. Coconut or olive oils have been known to be very effective when it comes to getting rid of dandruff. Measure 3 – 5 tablespoons of either oil, heat then massage it thoroughly into your scalp. Wrap towel around your head to keep the heat in then let it sit for about an hour. Wash hair with a non alcohol-based shampoo, or with a conditioner only.
- Fenugreek Paste Remedy. Take a handful of fenugreek seeds and soak them overnight. In the morning, grind seeds into a paste then apply onto scalp. Leave paste on for a few hours then wash out with a non alcohol-based shampoo, or conditioner only.
- Shikakai Powder Remedy. Shikakai comes from the fruit pods of the Acacia Concinna tree native to India. You can find Shikakai powder at any health food store. Mix warm to hot water into the powder to create a paste. You may also add other extracts such as orange blossom and/or rose water to paste for a more fragrant smell. Shikakai, in its raw form, is also very good for stimulating hair growth as well as being an excellent hair cleanser.
- Hibiscus Tea Rinse Remedy. Place hibiscus petals inside a tea strainer then immerse into hot water. Let tea steep for several minutes until tea is a deep red color. Use this tea as a rinse for your hair to treat and to also prevent dandruff.
For more remedies to treat dandruff, try these products you’ll find right in your home.
