A complete black outfit or that LBD (little black dress) is all’s favorite, but nothing can be a spoilsport like those tiny white flakes shedding on your shoulders. Well, dandruff (medically referred to as seborrhoea or cradle cap in children) is a common hair concern, causing itchiness, dry scalp, hair fall and other hair problems in men, women, and children alike, leaving them to ask one common question “How to control dandruff and hair fall?” Answer: “Home remedies for dandruff.”
Don’t panic; it is all organic.
While people often recommend a lengthy list of hair care products, anti-dandruff shampoos, and chemical solutions to reduce dandruff, nothing can do wonders like natural home remedies for dandruff do.
Yes, it is tempting to reach out for an anti-dandruff shampoo during your next visit to the supermarket, but if anti-dandruff shampoos fail to kick out those tiny white flakes, turn to your kitchen and try home remedies for dandruff and itchy scalp.
Before we discover some DIY recipes for dandruff control, let’s plunge into the causes and symptoms of dandruff because many times, we don’t know that those white tiny flakes have found their place in our scalp until the problem gets severe. Also, we will share a list of top-selling anti-dandruff shampoos which claim to reduce dandruff once and for all.
So, scroll down to comb through it all.
Also Read: Summer Hair Care Routine – Every Man & Woman Should Know
Causes of Dandruff and Itchy Scalp
There are many reasons for dandruff and itchy scalp; it can range from lifestyle habits to genetic conditions. But to put it simply, when too many bacteria or fungi accumulate on the oily scalp, it causes an itchy scalp, which further leads to flakiness and dandruff.
Here’s a quick chart to help you understand the underlying causes of dandruff
| Causes of Dandruff | Description |
| Oily Scalp | When too much oil accumulates on the scalp, it combines with dead skin cells and gives a breeding ground for bacteria and fungus build-ups, which can trigger dandruff. |
| Dry Scalp | When your scalp doesn’t produce enough natural oils, it gets dry and flaky, causing dandruff. |
| Skin Diseases | Skin problems like psoriasis or eczema can also lead to dandruff by causing inflammation and flaking of the skin. |
| Fungal Infections | Fungal infections like seborrheic dermatitis are also a prime cause of dandruff. This is a skin and hair condition characterized by red, greasy skin covered with flaky white or yellow flakes. |
| Hair Products | Certain hair products, like hair gels, hairsprays, and hair styling creams, can irritate the scalp and cause dandruff. |
| Hormonal Changes | Hormonal changes occurred during puberty, pregnancy, or menopause can also lead to dandruff. |
| Environmental Factors | Several environmental factors like pollution, stress, etc., can also trigger dandruff and itchy scalp in some people. |
These are a few of the most common causes of dandruff and itchy scalp, which will help you find the most effective treatment for dandruff based on your specific conditions.
Symptoms of Dandruff
While dandruff has united over half of the world’s population, irrespective of age, race, or gender, its symptoms vary from person to person. The most common symptoms of dandruff include:
| Symptoms | Description |
| Flaking | Flaking can range from a few white flakes on your scalp or hair to more visible flakes falling onto your clothing. |
| Redness | Redness or inflammation on the scalp can be a sign of a fungal infection or other underlying hair problems. |
| Greasy or oily scalp | Dandruff can sometimes cause an oily or greasy scalp, which can make your hair look dirty and unappealing. |
| Itching | Itching is one of the most common symptoms of dandruff. It can be mild or severe; either way constant urge to scratch is uncomfortable and embarrassing. |
| Dryness | Dandruff can also cause dryness and flakiness on the scalp, especially in winter or dry climates. |
If you notice any of these symptoms, seek medical assistance or look for a natural remedies for dandruff to treat this scalp condition. Home remedies can be a safe and effective way to control mild cases of dandruff, but if symptoms are severe, medical attention can be your best bet.
Home Remedies for Dandruff
No matter what causes dandruff, using natural dandruff remedies is the best best way to get rid of dandruff. Home remedies for dandruff are highly effective, and the best thing about these remedies is that they can be made at home using some simple ingredients found in your kitchen or garden.
So, let’s discover some easy DIY recipes for dandruff control:
1. Coconut Oil
It is an excellent natural remedy for dandruff, which has antimicrobial properties that helps fight the dandruff-causing fungi. Additionally, coconut oil is rich in vitamin E, which helps improve scalp and hair health.
DIY Coconut Oil Recipes for Dandruff
- Warm up some coconut oil
- Rub it to your scalp for a few minutes.
- Leave it for at least 30 minutes and wash it off with a gentle shampoo.
- Repeat the process once or twice a week for best results.
2. Aloe Vera
This amazing plant is a natural moisturizer, used as an active ingredient not only in skin care products but also in the hair care range. Filled with anti-inflammatory and antifungal properties, aloe vera helps calm an itchy scalp, reduce inflammation, fight fungi, and control dandruff.
DIY Aloe Vera Recipes for Dandruff
- Scoop out fresh aloe vera gel from the plant.
- Apply it directly to your scalp and massage for a few minutes.
- Leave it on for 30 minutes and rinse it off.
Realted Article: Discover the Amazing Uses and Benefits of Aloe Vera for Skin, Hair, and Health
3. Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar is another effective treatment for dandruff and an itchy scalp. It contains acetic acid, which helps reduce the build-up of fungi and bacteria and balance the pH level of your scalp, preventing dandruff.
DIY Apple Cider Vinegar Recipes for Dandruff
- Mix an equal amount of water and apple cider vinegar.
- Pour it over your scalp
- Leave it in for 20-30 minutes, and then wash it off using a mild shampoo.
There is no enough research to back up the effectiveness of apple cider vinegar in dandruff control. But apple cider vinegar is anecdotally proven to remove dead skin cells and balance the pH of your scalp to reduce dandruff.
4. Aspirin
Aspirin contains salicylic acid, an ingredient found in many skin care products and anti-dandruff shampoos. This acid is highly effective in the treatment of seborrheic dermatitis and dandruff.
DIY Aspirin Recipes for Dandruff
- Crush two tablets of Aspirin.
- Mix it to your regular shampoo and wash your hair with it.
- Let it sit for 2 minutes, then rinse it out.
5. Tea Tree Oil
Tea tree oil has antifungal and antiseptic properties that help soothe an itchy scalp, reduce inflammation, and control dandruff.
DIY Tea Tree Oil Recipes for Dandruff
- Mix a few drops of tea tree oil with a carrier oil, such as coconut oil or olive oil.
- Apply the mixture to your scalp and rub it with your fingers.
- Leave it on for at least 30 minutes and wash it off with a gentle shampoo.
Mix a few drops of tea tree oil with your regular shampoo. Lather it to work, leave it on for 5 minutes, and then rinse it with cold water.
6. Baking Soda
Baking soda has antifungal properties that help exfoliate dead skin cells, relieve itching and skin irritation, and reduce the amount of fungus on the scalp that can cause dandruff.
DIY Baking Soda Recipes for Dandruff
- Wet your hair
- Apply a handful of baking soda onto your scalp.
- Leave it on for a few minutes, then rinse it off with water.
7. Lemon Juice
Lemon juice is another natural home remedy for dandruff which helps regulate the pH balance of the scalp and reduce the growth of yeast that can contribute to dandruff.
- Squeeze out the lemon juice and apply it to your scalp.
- Leave it on for a few minutes.
- Now, rinse it off with water.
Lemon juice can be drying, so it’s best to use it in moderation and follow up with a conditioner to prevent dryness and further scalp irritation.
8. Olive Oil
In addition to being a healthy supplement to a balanced diet and an effective remedy to add in your summer skin care routine, olive oil is a remarkable therapy for dandruff also and a one-step solution for healthy hair. It helps moisturize and soothe an itchy, flaky scalp, as well as reduce the discomfort produced by the fungus.
DIY Olive Oil Recipes for Dandruff
- Warm up a small amount of olive oil.
- Apply it to your scalp, working your way from roots to tips.
- Leave it on for 30 minutes to an hour, and rinse it off with shampoo.
Also Read: Benefits of Olive Oil for Overall Wellbeing
9. Yogurt
Curd or yogurt is an amazing ingredient that works for all hair and skin types. Its cooling and anti-inflammatory properties help treat the problems of dry scalp and dandruff. Also, it contains natural probiotics that are known to regulate the levels of yeast on the scalp that causes dandruff.
DIY Yogurt Recipes for Dandruff
- Apply plain yogurt to your scalp or mix it with mashed papaya.
- Leave it on for 30 minutes.
- Now, rinse it off with water and shampoo.
10. Fenugreek Seeds (Methi)
Fenugreek seeds have anti-inflammatory and antifungal properties that help nourish hair and reduce dandruff. What’s more? Thai natural remedy helps repair hair follicles, prevent hair fall, and promote hair regrowth.
DIY Fenugreek Seeds Recipes for Dandruff
- Soak a handful of fenugreek seeds in water overnight.
- Blend the soaked methi to form a smooth paste.
- Apply the paste to your scalp and leave it on for 30-60 minutes.
- Wash it off with water and shampoo.
11. Neem Leaves
No skin care and hair care range can ever be complete without quoting about neem leaves. Neem has antibacterial and antifungal properties known to relieve itchiness, reduce redness, and control dandruff.
DIY Neem Leaves Recipes for Dandruff
- Grind some leaves of neem and add them with a tablespoon of honey.
- Mix them well to form a thick paste.
- Apply the paste to your scalp and leave it on for 15-20 minutes.
- Wash it off with cold water.
Boil neem leaves in water for 10-20 minutes. Let the water cool down and transfer it to a spray bottle. Spray it every time before you wash your hair for a more hydrated scalp.
Lifestyle Changes to Reduce Dandruff
Now that you know some of the most effective home remedies for dandruff treatment, here are what lifestyle changes you need to make to keep your locks right. It will help not only prevent dandruff but also reduce its occurrence.
Diet
Your diet plays a crucial role in maintaining your skin, hair, and scalp health. A poor diet can trigger several hair concerns, including dandruff and itchiness, while a well-balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals helps improve the overall scalp health and reduce dandruff.
Making changes to your diet and adding healthy foods like fatty fish, nuts, omega-3, fresh fruits, and green leafy vegetables can help reduce inflammation and prevent fungal infections, which leads to control dandruff.
Hygiene
Following healthy hygiene practices is also a contributing factor that helps reduce dandruff. Regularly washing your hair and avoiding the use of harsh chemicals will maintain your hair and scalp health. Furthermore, avoid sharing towels, combs, brushes, and other hair care products to reduce the risk of spreading dandruff.
Stress Management
Stress is one of the key causes of triggering several skin issues and hair problems like hair fall, dandruff, split ends, etc. Stress decreases your body’s ability to fight off infections and may weaken your immune system, which causes dandruff. Finding ways to manage stress, such as traveling, practicing yoga, meditation, and doing exercise for hair health can help reduce the control of dandruff and other hair problems.
Precautions and Tips
While home remedies are the effective treatment of dandruff, you should keep certain precautions and tips in mind to get the best result.
- Avoid using harsh chemicals on your scalp, such as hair color treatment, hair dyes, or hair styling products that contain alcohol. Chemically loaded products can irritate your scalp and exacerbate dandruff.
- Be regular and consistent with your dandruff treatment at home. It may take weeks or months to reduce dandruff before you see improvement. So, have patience and stick to your chosen home remedy for dandruff.
- If you have tried anti-dandruff shampoos, home remedies for dandruff, and made lifestyle changes, but still, dandruff persists, it is wise to seek medical attention. Your dermatologist can help you find the underlying cause of your dandruff and suggest the best medication.
Side Effects of Using Home Remedies for Dandruff
While home remedies for dandruff are considered safe and effective, they may cause some allergic reactions in some people. For example, some natural remedies, like apple cider vinegar, tea tree oil, etc., can cause inflammation and irritation in some people. Hence, you should do patch tests before you try any of these home remedies to avoid any adverse reactions. And if you experience any discomfort or irritation, discontinue use and seek medical assistance at once.
Caution
While home remedies for dandruff are easy and effective to use, they may not work for everyone. If your dandruff symptoms are severe or persist even after a few regular uses of natural remedies, you should seek medical attention.
When to See a Doctor for Dandruff Treatment
If you’re still scratching and shedding after trying home remedies for dandruff, see your doctor. For those stubborn tiny flakes, you may need to use a topical medication or prescription shampoo. Most likely, your doctor can suggest you any over-the-counter anti-dandruff shampoo formulated with different active ingredients for effective dandruff treatment.
Some of the effective ingredients found helpful in controlling dandruff are:
- Coal tar preparations (Denorex Therapeutic Protection, Neutrogena T/Gel, Scytera)
- Salicylic acid and sulfur (Sebex, Sebulex)
- Pyrithione zinc (Selsun Blue for Itchy Dry Scalp, Neutrogena T/Gel Daily Control Dandruff Shampoo, Head & Shoulders)
- Salicylic acid (Neutrogena T/Sal )
- Ketoconazole (Extina, Nizoral A-D, Xolegel)
- Selenium sulfide (Dandrex, Head & Shoulders Clinical Strength, Selsun)
You should switch between the types of shampoos if one type proves effective at first but loses its effectiveness later.
Top 11 Anti-Dandruff Shampoos with their Price List
| Anti-dandruff Shampoo | Price | Action |
| GK Hair Anti Dandruff Shampoo | 3315 | Buy Now |
| Man Matters Advanced Anti Dandruff Shampoo and Hair Massager For Men | 599 | Buy Now |
| L’Oréal Professionnel Scalp Advanced Anti-Dandruff Dermo-Clarifier Shampoo | 695 | Buy Now |
| Dr Batra’s Dandruff Cleansing Shampoo | 120 | Buy Now |
| Teenilicious Anti Dandruff Shampoo for Women & Men | 409 | Buy Now |
| Scalpe Pro Daily Anti-dandruff Shampoo with conditioning base | 497 | Buy Now |
| Bare Anatomy EXPERT Anti-Dandruff Shampoo | 429 | Buy Now |
| Selsun Suspension Anti Dandruff Shampoo | 343 | Buy Now |
| Sebamed Anti-Dandruff Shampoo | 480 | Buy Now |
| Bodywise Anti Dandruff Shampoo | 359 | Buy Now |
| RE’ EQUIL Dandruff Control Shampoo | 498 | Buy Now |
Final Thought
Dandruff can be an embarrassing scalp condition, but fortunately, there are several natural home remedies for dandruff that can help reduce its occurrence. Additionally, making some lifestyle changes and practicing healthy habits can also help control dandruff and itchy scalp. Remember to be regular and consistent with your hair treatments for the best result.
With patience and persistence, you can achieve a healthier, dandruff-free scalp.
Also Read: 5 Best DIY Protein Treatments for Hair and Benefits
