What Is Good For Dandruff? What Causes Dandruff? How Is Dandruff Treated?

Dandruff is a common chronic skin condition that causes flaking of the scalp. What is good for dandruff? There are many medicinal and commercial products that can be used to treat mild dandruff. In severe cases of dandruff, special medicated shampoos or prescription medications are used to treat an underlying skin problem.

what is good for dandruff
What is good for dandruff?

What Causes Dandruff?

The causes of dandruff can be listed as follows:

  • Seborrheic dermatitis

This ailment is one of the most common causes of dandruff. It causes inflammation of the skin. The scalp becomes covered with scales and the skin becomes red. This condition usually affects the areas where the sebaceous glands are located. In some cases, Of Malassezia due to reproduction. Such as dandruff and seborrheic dermatitis, vitamin B6 and vitamin B1 lack of vitaminsIt could also be a result of

  • malassezia

Malassezia is a type of yeast-like fungus that causes infection and skin inflammation. This makes the skin cells dry and flaky, causing dandruff.

  • dry skin

The most obvious cause of dandruff is skin dryness. Dry skin causes flakes to form, which eventually turn into dandruff. Typically, these flakes are smaller and less oily than those caused by other routes.

Dandruff Symptoms

Dandruff manifests itself in different ways. It typically appears as dry flakes on the scalp and forehead. These scales can form on the eyebrows. It can occur in men's beard and mustache. Dandruff makes the scalp itchy and gives the skin a scaly and unpleasant appearance. We can list the symptoms of dandruff in the hair as follows:

  • Itchy scalp: Itchy scalp is the most common symptom of dandruff in the hair. If you have dandruff on your scalp, it is inevitable to experience itching. Itching is caused by scales. Scales are dead cells that come from the scalp.
  • Hair loss: Hair lossis another symptom of dandruff in the hair. Regardless of the type, hair loss commonly occurs when you have a scalp problem. 
  • Dry and dull hair: Dandruff collects oils on the scalp. Leaves hair dry and lifeless. Even after brushing properly, your hair may look dull.

Dandruff Treatment

There are many commercially available medicinal options that can help treat dandruff. Such products, which can be used to treat flaky skin, generally fall into three categories:

  • antifungal agents

These agents help eliminate fungal infections that cause dandruff or flaky skin on the scalp or forehead. Typically, antifungal agents include zinc pyrithione and selenium sulfide, which can help eradicate the fungal infection propagated by the yeast Malassezia furfur.

  • Exfoliating agents

These agents exhibit keratolytic activity in which corneocytes (exfoliated skin clumps) are loosened and washed away. Agents such as salicylic acid and sulfur can be used for this purpose.

  • Anti-inflammatory agents

Prescription topical steroids such as corticosteroids (such as desonide hydrogel 0.05%) have an anti-inflammatory effect on the infection causing seborrheic dermatitis and reduce the flaky appearance of the skin.

What Is Good For Dandruff?

Tea Tree Oil

Tea tree oil It can be used topically on the skin or scalp to relieve any fungal infection that causes dandruff.

  • Mix 2-3 drops of tea tree oil with 2-3 drops of sweet jojoba oil.
  • Rub a few drops of this mixture onto a cotton pad and apply to the scalp.
  • Repeat 3-4 times a week.

Note : Tea tree oil can cause skin irritation in some people. Therefore, do not use without allergy testing. Avoid using this oil if you have allergies.

Coconut Oil

Coconut oilIt fights fungal infections that can cause Malassezia. This reduces dandruff formation.

  • 2 tablespoon Massage your scalp with coconut oil.
  • Wait about an hour before washing it off with a mild shampoo.
  • Repeat this 2 times a week.

Aloe vera

Aloe verais a rich source of bioactive compounds used to treat skin disorders. Extracts of the plant exhibit antifungal and antimicrobial properties that fight the fungal infection that causes dandruff.

  • Apply some aloe vera gel on your scalp. 
  • Massage in circular motions, allowing the gel to be absorbed by the scalp. 
  • Wash off after 1 hours.
  • You can apply the gel at least 2 times a week.

Lemongrass Oil

Lemongrass oil is rich in bioactive compounds that exhibit antifungal properties. This property combats Malassezia furfur, a type of yeast that can cause dandruff.

  • Add a few drops of lemongrass oil to your shampoo and massage your scalp liberally. 
  • Wash thoroughly with water. 
  • Wash your hair with lemongrass oil 2 times a week.
  What Causes Anorexia, How Does It Go? What Is Good For Anorexia?

Note : Topical application of lemongrass oil can cause an allergic reaction in some people. You should do an allergy test on your skin before trying this.

Eucalyptus Oil

Eucalyptus oil is rich in bioactive compounds that increase the ceramide content of the scalp, thereby reducing dandruff.

  • Mix 2-3 drops of eucalyptus oil with 2-3 drops of coconut oil.
  • Apply this mixture on your scalp and wait for 30-45 minutes. 
  • Wash thoroughly with water.
  • You can apply this 2-3 times a week.

Garlic

Garlic Its bioactive components are ajoene and allicin. Its anti-fungal properties allow to alleviate the fungal infection that can cause dandruff.

  • Peel and crush a few cloves of garlic.
  • Tomorrow, heat a cup of olive oil in a saucepan and add the crushed garlic.
  • Heat the mixture for 5 minutes and strain. 
  • Let it cool down and apply it to your scalp.
  • Wash it off with water after 30-45 minutes.
  • You can apply this oil twice a week.

Baking powder

Baking soda is often used as an antifungal agent. Therefore, it helps in the treatment of dandruff.

  • Take a few tablespoons of baking soda and apply directly to wet hair. 
  • Wait for about 2 minutes and then wash thoroughly. 
  • You can do this 2 times a week.

Lemon juice

Lemon juice It is a rich source of citric acid. The natural pH of the scalp is 5.5, and citric acid-based shampoos help keep the pH of the scalp balanced. This reduces the appearance of dandruff on the scalp.

  • Soak lemon juice in a cotton ball and apply it to your scalp as a pre-shampoo treatment. 
  • Wait for about 5-10 minutes and wash off with a mild shampoo. 
  • You can do this 2 times a week.

Note : Do this only if you are not allergic to lemon juice, as it can cause a stinging sensation.

Green tea

Researches, green teaThe results show that it is rich in polyphenols and epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), which exert a preventive effect on fungal infections. This eliminates any infection that may be causing dandruff.

  • Soak 2-3 green tea bags in warm water and strain after cooling. 
  • Rinse your hair with this water and wait for about 10 minutes. 
  • Wash with a mild shampoo. You can do this 2 times a week for a few months.

Apple Cider Vinegar

Apple cider vinegar Shows strong antibacterial properties. In this way, it removes any skin infection that may cause dandruff.

  • Mix one tablespoon of raw apple cider vinegar with three tablespoons of water. 
  • Apply the mixture to your scalp. Wait a few minutes before washing it off with shampoo. 
  • You can do this 1-2 times a week.

How Is Dandruff Treated? Naturally

  • Reduce stress

This affects many aspects of health, from chronic diseases to mental health. While stress itself does not cause dandruff, it exacerbates symptoms such as dryness and itching. Long-term and high levels of stress suppress the activity of the immune system. A weakened immune system reduces the body's ability to fight certain fungal infections and skin conditions that contribute to dandruff. Try some stress reduction techniques like meditation, yoga, deep breathing or aromatherapy to keep stress levels under control.

  • Eat omega 3 fatty acids

Omega 3 fatty acids play an important role in the body. They not only form the cell membranes that surround cells, but are also vital to the functions of the heart, immune system and lungs. Omega 3 fatty acids are very important for skin health. It supports oil production and wound healing, prevents premature aging.

Deficiency in omega 3 fatty acids causes problems such as dry hair, dry skin and even dandruff. Oily fish such as salmon, trout and mackerel are excellent sources of omega 3 fatty acids. You can also take a fish oil supplement or consume other omega 3 rich foods such as flaxseed, chia seeds and walnuts.

  • Consume probiotics

Probiotic foods like yogurt contain Lactobacillus paracasei bacteria, which can help reduce dandruff. Research shows that Lactobacillus paracasei can help restore the normal balance of the scalp microbiome, thereby eliminating dandruff. For this, consume 1 glass of probiotic yogurt every day.

Pay attention to the following tips to prevent dandruff;

  • Avoid washing your scalp too often, as excessive use of commercially available shampoos can strip the scalp of its natural moisture.
  • Use mild shampoos as harsh chemicals can disrupt the pH of the scalp and cause dryness on the scalp and skin.
  • Drink lots of water, as this keeps the body hydrated. It helps to maintain the natural moisture balance of the skin and scalp.
  • Avoid using hair styling products such as gels and sprays. These products cause buildup and worsen dandruff.
Hair Mask Recipes for Dandruff

Hibiscus and Fenugreek Mask

Hibiscus leaves have been used since ancient times to treat scalp problems such as dandruff. Fenugreek seeds stimulate hair growth as well as treat dandruff.

  • Soak a tablespoon of fenugreek seeds in a glass of water overnight.
  • Mix fenugreek seeds in the morning with 12 hibiscus leaves.
  • Add half a glass of yogurt to the mixture and mix until you get a smooth paste.
  • Apply this mask on your hair from the roots to the ends.
  • After your scalp and hair are completely covered with the mask, wait 30 minutes.
  • Wash off the hair mask with a mild sulfate-free shampoo.
  • You can apply this mask 2 or 3 times a week until the dandruff problem disappears.
  What is Magnolia Bark, How to Use? Benefits and Side Effects

Banana and Honey Mask

This is a perfect mask for people with dry hair. Banana Helps hair care and dandruff control. Olive oil It provides the hair to become stronger by softening. The citric acid in lemon juice balances the pH of the hair. Honey reduces dandruff.

  • Mash two ripe bananas in a bowl until you get a lump-free paste.
  • Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil, 1 tablespoon of honey and 1 tablespoon of lemon juice to the mashed banana. 
  • Mix well to get a thick paste.
  • Apply this on your scalp and hair and wait for 30 minutes.
  • Wash your hair with a mild shampoo.
  • You can use the mask once a week.

Egg and Yogurt Mask

egg and yogurt provides the scalp with the nutrients and moisture it needs. It is also effective for mild dandruff.

  • Mix 1 egg, 2 tablespoons of olive oil, 1 glass of yogurt, 1 tablespoon of lemon juice until it becomes a paste.
  • Apply the mask to your hair from the roots to the ends.
  • After your scalp and hair are completely covered with the mask, wait 20 minutes.
  • Wash off the hair mask with a mild shampoo. Use cold water for washing because hot/warm water can cook the egg.
  • You can use the mask once a week.
Egg Yolk and Olive Oil Mask

Egg yolk contains fatty acids and vitamin A that keep hair shiny while preventing dandruff.

  • Whisk 2 egg yolks and 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a bowl.
  • Apply the mask to your hair from the roots to the ends. 
  • After your scalp and hair are completely covered with the mask, wait for an hour.
  • Wash with a mild shampoo. Use cold water to rinse your hair. 
  • You can use it 1-2 times a week.

Mayonnaise Mask

While the mayonnaise moisturizes the hair, the sour curd and aloe vera present in this hair mask effectively combat dandruff. It also helps maintain scalp health due to the vinegar it contains.

  • Mix half a glass of sour curd, 2 tablespoons of mayonnaise, 2 tablespoons of aloe vera gel in a bowl.
  • Apply the mask to your hair from the roots to the ends. 
  • After your scalp and hair are completely covered with the mask, wait for an hour.
  • Wash with a mild shampoo. 
  • You can apply 1-2 times a week.

Onion Mask

The antifungal properties of the vegetable help get rid of the fungus that causes dandruff. Onion juice promotes hair growth.

  • Crush a large onion until you get a smooth, viscous paste. 
  • Apply this paste starting from the roots of your hair and working your way up to the ends.
  • After your scalp and hair are completely covered with the mask, wait for an hour. 
  • Wash off the hair mask with a mild shampoo. 
  • You can apply it once a week.

Garlic and Honey Mask

GarlicIt has been used for years to treat dandruff. Honey not only conditions the hair but also helps to remove dandruff.

  • Crush six cloves of garlic in a bowl and wait 10 minutes. After 10 minutes, add 7 tablespoons of honey and mix the two ingredients.
  • Apply the mixture on your scalp and hair and wait for about 5-10 minutes.
  • Rinse off the hair mask and wash your hair with a mild shampoo. 
  • You can use it once a week.
Avocado Hair Mask

AvokadoIt is rich in antioxidants that help maintain scalp health. This deep conditioning mask soothes the scalp and removes dandruff. Olive oil softens and strengthens your hair.

  • Mash a ripe avocado in a bowl with a fork until it is completely lump-free.
  • Add two tablespoons of honey and olive oil to the mashed avocado. Mix until well combined.
  • Apply this hair mask to your hair from the roots to the ends.
  • After your scalp and hair are completely covered with the mask, wait 45 minutes. 
  • Wash off the mask with a mild shampoo. 
  • You can apply once a week.

Eucalyptus Oil and Aloe Vera Mask

Aloe verahas been found to be effective in alleviating seborrheic dermatitis, a condition that causes persistent dandruff. It also has antifungal properties that can help treat dandruff.

  • Mix two to three drops of eucalyptus oil with 4 tablespoons of pure aloe vera gel.
  • Apply this hair mask starting from the roots and working towards the ends.
  • After your scalp and hair are completely covered with the mask, wait 30 minutes to an hour.
  • Wash off the hair mask with cold/warm water. 
  • You can use it 2-3 times a week.

Vitamin E and Aloe Vera Mask

Would you like to have soft and silky hair while eliminating dandruff? This hair mask is perfect for just those hair problems.

  • First, cut 2 vitamin E capsules and extract the oil from inside. 
  • Add 3 teaspoons of aloe vera gel and mix well. 
  • Apply this mixture on your hair and wait for 30 minutes. 
  • Next, wash your hair with a mild shampoo. 
  • For best results, use this mask once a week.
  What is Calcium Lactate, What Is It Good For, What Are The Harms?

Yogurt and Honey Mask

Yogurt heals hair by repairing hair damage. The topical application of honey helps relieve conditions such as dandruff and seborrheic dermatitis.

  • Mix half a glass of yogurt, 1 tablespoon of lemon juice and 1 tablespoon of honey in a bowl until you get a smooth mixture.
  • Apply this mixture to your hair, starting from the roots and working your way to the ends.
  • After your hair is completely covered with the mask, wait for half an hour.
  • Wash off the hair mask with a mild sulfate-free shampoo.
  • You can apply it once or twice a week.
Castor Oil and Aloe Vera Mask

This mask helps nourish the scalp and removes dandruff while preserving hair texture.

  • In a bowl, add a few drops of rosemary oil and 1 tablespoon of castor oil and 4 tablespoons of aloe vera gel. 
  • Mix all the ingredients properly and apply this mixture on the scalp.
  • Leave it on the scalp for 30 minutes and rinse with normal temperature water. 
  • For best results, apply this mask once a week.

Oils Good for Dandruff

Using herbal hair oils instead of chemical formulas is more effective for dandruff. It softens the hair strands, reduces hair loss and ensures rapid hair growth.

  • Coconut oil

Coconut oil moisturizes the scalp. It helps reduce fungi that can cause dandruff on the scalp.

  • Rosemary oil

Rosemary oilIt is used for dandruff because it has germicidal and antiseptic properties. Since it is anti-fungal, it also reduces itching on the scalp.

  • basil oil

Basil oil reduces dandruff and treats hair loss. It relieves itching on the scalp.

  • Tea tree oil

Tea tree oilIt has anti-fungal and anti-bacterial properties. Relieves dandruff and related scalp irritation.

  • lemongrass oil

Lemongrass oil removes dandruff. Relieves symptoms caused by dandruff.

  • Mint oil

Mint oilIt has strong germ-killing properties. It helps treat dandruff.

How to Use Anti-Dandruff Hair Oils?

It is not difficult to use hair oils to prevent dandruff. 

  • Massage a few drops of one of the above-mentioned oils into your scalp with your fingers. 
  • Leave the oil on your hair overnight. You can wait up to 1 to 2 hours before washing it off.
  • Be careful not to use too much oil.

In addition, there are some important points that you should pay attention to after applying the oil.

Considerations when using hair oil for dandruff

  • Do not comb your hair with a brush or fingers. Because the hair exposed to oil treatment weakens. If pulled, it will break and break.
  • Do not braid or braid your hair into a ponytail. You can fasten it with a tight bun.
  • When you apply oil treatment to the hair, do not apply any other application such as a mask or conditioner. Multiple applications weigh down the hair. 
  • Do not wash your hair immediately after using oil. Wait a bit for the oil to seep into your hair strands and penetrate the scalp pores. 

Things to consider when buying anti-dandruff oil

Here are some key points to consider before choosing an anti-dandruff oil:

  • Choose hair oil suitable for your hair type. Get a suitable carrier oil to mix with essential oils. 
  • Choose products that contain natural ingredients.
  • Prepared by distillation or cold pressing processes essential oils it is better.
  • Choose an unscented essential oil whenever possible. Fragrances cause irritation to some people.

Hair oils will effectively treat dandruff. If there is no improvement and conditions such as the following occur, it is necessary to go to the doctor; 

  • Redness or inflammation of the scalp
  • Excessive hair loss for no apparent reason (other than dandruff)
  • Pronounced patches of dandruff on shoulders and clothes

References: 1, 2, 3

Share the post!!!

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields * Required fields are marked with