Dandruff is the shedding of dead skin cells from the scalp which may cause hair fall. Those affected by dandruff find that it can cause social or self-esteem problems. Just skip the dandruff shampoos and try these homemade dandruff treatments to throw out those pesky white crumbles.
1. Baking Soda
Would you have ever imagined finding baking soda as one of the potential home remedies to cure dandruff? It clarifies the scalp by clearing off the flakes. Add 1 teaspoon of baking soda to your shampoo and wash your hair with this new concoction. You may have to use it for weeks before you see major improvement in your hair condition.
2. Lemon
We all know that lemon juice is a natural bleaching agent because of the presence of citric acid in it. But, did you know that lemon juice also has anti-fungal properties that help in getting rid of the dandruff? Add coconut oil to lemon juice, and smear off the mask on your scalp for 20-30 minutes and wash it off later by using a mild shampoo.
3. Olive Oil
Out of the multiple uses of olive oil, its use in treating dandruff is most widely popular. It is a natural moisturizer and since dandruff is mostly caused by a dry scalp, using olive oil is an obvious natural remedy for dandruff. Massage your scalp gently by using warm olive oil. Keep it overnight and cleanse it with a mild shampoo the next morning.
4. Vinegar
When using vinegar for curing dandruff at home, never pick a chemically prepared one. Always pick one made from natural ingredients such as apple cider or balsamic vinegar. Vinegar is best used when curing itchy dandruff, as it has got active potassium enzymes that help in curbing the itching sensation of the scalp. A good way to use vinegar is by gently massaging it onto your scalp or by putting it into your last mug of water while washing your hair.
5. Aloe Vera
The thick fluid in the leaves of Aloe Vera plant eases dandruff due to its anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties. It is also best used in treating scaly skin in people with ‘seborrheic dermatitis’, a skin condition that can create dandruff. Apply the gel obtained from the plant directly onto your scalp.
6. Aspirin
You can keep your dandruff in check by using aspirin tablets. Yes, it’s this simple. All you need to do is crush two tablets into a fine powder and add it to the normal amount of shampoo you use each time to wash your hair. Leave the mixture on your hair for few minutes before you wash it off with normal water. Wash your hair again with the normal shampoo.
7. Yogurt
One of the simplest home remedy to cure dandruff; all you need is curd and pepper. Yogurt, when applied to the scalp, acts like a soothing agent. It also prevents aggravation of scaling on the scalp. Pepper, on the other hand, has anti-fungal properties. Take 2 teaspoons of black pepper and grind them finely. Add it to a cup of curd and mix it thoroughly. Apply it all over your scalp. Leave it for about an hour and rinse off.
8. Fenugreek
Fenugreek will be easily available in your kitchen. It has scalp-soothing and anti-fungal properties. It will also soften your hair along with helping you get rid of dandruff. Soak fenugreek seeds in water overnight and grind to a fine paste. Apply the paste to your scalp for 30-45 minutes and wash it off with a mild shampoo.
9. Gram Flour
It is an effective cleansing agent. Gram flour removes the dirt from scalp and is handy and effective in curing dandruff. For better results, apply gram flour mixed with curd on your scalp for 20 minutes.
10. Apple
Another unconventional home remedy to cure dandruff is an apple. Squeeze out the juice from a fresh apple and mix it with an equal amount of water. Apply this mixture onto your scalp. Leave it for about 10 minutes before washing it off with a shampoo. Apple has an enzyme called ‘phenolase’ that eliminates accumulation of dead skin thereby curing dandruff in the process. None of these cures are miracle cures and one needs to have patience to see the results. However, the good way to fight dandruff is to use these home remedies on a regular basis.
