Home Remedies and Herbs for Dandruff

Dandruff, or seborrheic dermatitis, is a chronic and common scalp condition marked by the excess shedding of the top layer of the skin. This also affects the eyebrows and along the sides of the nose. This top layer of skin consists of dead cells which are normally and continually shed off because the body is producing new cells that simply move up to replace the old ones. ^1,2,3 Dandruff isn’t contagious or serious however, some people find it unsightly and embarrassing. Most cases of dandruff can be easily controlled and may require nothing more than a dandruff shampoo. Many dandruff home remedies and natural treatments are effective.

What Causes Dandruff?

The exact medical cause or causes of dandruff are unclear. Doctors think it may be a combination of hormone levels, weakened immune system, lack of certain nutrients or even nervous system problems. ² Dandruff causes can be a result of: ^1,2,3

• Irritated, oily skin (seborrheic dermatitis — This condition is seen as the most frequent dandruff cause and is marked by red, greasy skin covered with flaky white or yellow scales.
• A yeast-like fungus (malassezia) — This is a fungus which grows on most adult’s scalps. In some, it irritates the scalp and causes skin to fall off at a greater rate.
• Dry skin — Here the dandruff flakes are smaller and less oily. Flaky skin may also be present on other parts of the body and not just the scalp.
• Not shampooing enough — Infrequent washing can cause a buildup of oil and dead skin which then dries and flakes off.
• Sensitivity to hair care products — Also known as contact dermatitis, some people are sensitive to certain hair care products which cause a greater flaking of scalp skin.

Dandruff Symptoms

Dandruff symptoms are easy to spot on most adults. They’re seen as white, oily-looking flakes of dead skin on the hair and shoulders. Usually, the scalp is itchy and scaly and the condition will worsen during dry periods, especially the winter when indoor heating contributes to dry skin. ^1,2 Medically, seborrheic dermatitis or dandruff symptoms include: ²

• Skin lesions with scales
• Plaques over large area
• Greasy and oily areas of skin
• Skin scales — dry, white flakes
• Itching which may become infected
• Redness of skin
• Hair loss

Natural Remedies and Herbs for Dandruff

Fortunately, most dandruff causes are easily controlled through dandruff natural treatments. The most effective dandruff home remedies are:

• Apple Cider Vinegar - Apple cider vinegar is a natural, topical treatment that should be applied directly to the scalp for 15 minutes then rinsed off.
• Baking Soda - Baking soda is a natural dandruff remedy to exfoliate the scalp and remove dead skin.
• Tea Tree Oil - This soothes irritated skin caused by dandruff. Tea tree oil moisturizes the scalp and helps to prevent flaking in addition to reducing inflammation. Gently massage several drops of tea tree oil directly into the scalp and through the hair.
• Lemon Juice - Lemon juice has natural antiseptic and antibacterial health benefits that can help treat dandruff by soothing irritation and restoring PH levels.
• Coconut Oil - This is a natural moisturizer that eliminates fungi caused by dandruff. Massage coconut oil into the scalp and leave on for 20 minutes. Wash hair and repeat 2-3 times weekly.
• Neem Leaves - Neem is also known as Indian Lilac and is available in ethnic stores. The antibacterial property of neem helps to treat dry scalp.

References

1. http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/dandruff/home/ovc-20215279
2. http://umm.edu/health/medical/ency/articles/seborrheic-dermatitis
3. https://www.uhs.umich.edu/dandruff