10 Natural Solutions To Treat Dandruff

Hair dandruff is a common scalp condition characterized by the shedding of dead skin cells, often resulting in visible white flakes. Dandruff can lead to itching and discomfort, affecting self-esteem.
Hair dandruff is often caused by factors such as dry skin, seborrheic dermatitis, an overgrowth of Malassezia yeast, sensitivity to hair products, and underlying skin conditions like psoriasis or eczema. Understanding these causes is essential for effective management and treatment of dandruff.
To combat dandruff naturally, several solutions can be effective. Best Natural Solutions to Treat dandruff are given below:

10 Natural Solutions To Treat Dandruff

1. Lemon Juice

Lemon juice has acidic properties which may help create an environment on the scalp that is less hospitable to fungi, such as the Malassezia species, which can contribute to dandruff. The acidic nature of lemon juice can help loosen and remove flakes from the scalp, reducing visible dandruff.

Pure lemon juice can be too strong and may cause irritation. Mix it with equal parts water or more, depending on your scalp's sensitivity.After diluting, apply the mixture directly to your scalp using a cotton ball or your fingertips. Let the lemon juice mixture sit on your scalp for about 5-10 minutes. Wash your hair as usual to remove the lemon juice mixture.

Using lemon juice too frequently or leaving it on for too long can potentially dry out your scalp or cause other issues, so it’s best to apply lemon juice to your hair and scalp 1-2 times per week.
Lemon juice can make your scalp more sensitive to sunlight, so avoid direct sunlight immediately after applying lemon juice to your scalp.
Lemon juice may cause irritation or dryness for some people, especially those with sensitive skin or scalp conditions like eczema or psoriasis. It’s essential to test it on a small area first. If it cause irritation immediately wash it with water and consult a dermatologist or a healthcare professional.

2. Apple cider vinegar (ACV)

Apple cider vinegar (ACV) contains acetic acid, which has been shown to have antimicrobial effects. It may help reduce the growth of fungi and bacteria on the scalp, including the fungus responsible for dandruff (Malassezia). ACV can help exfoliate dead skin cells from the scalp, which can reduce flakiness and improve scalp health.

First perform a patch test on a small area of your scalp before using ACV extensively to ensure you don’t have an allergic reaction or irritation.

ACV is very acidic and can cause irritation if used undiluted. Mix 1 part ACV with 2-3 parts water (depending on your scalp sensitivity). After shampooing your hair, pour the ACV mixture onto your scalp. Gently massage the mixture into your scalp using your fingertips. Let the ACV mixture sit on your scalp for about 5-10 minutes. Rinse your hair thoroughly with water to remove the ACV smell and residue. You can follow up with conditioner if desired, focusing on the ends of your hair.

Start with using ACV once a week and adjust based on how your scalp responds. Using it too frequently may lead to dryness or irritation.
Similar to lemon juice, ACV can increase sensitivity to sunlight, so it’s advisable to avoid direct sunlight immediately after using ACV on your scalp.

3. Aloe Vera

Aloe vera contains vitamins, minerals, and enzymes that can help moisturize the scalp. Dry scalp can contribute to dandruff, so keeping the scalp hydrated can reduce flakiness. Aloe vera has anti-inflammatory properties that can help calm irritation and itching on the scalp, which are often associated with dandruff. Some studies suggest that aloe vera may have antifungal properties, which can help combat the fungi that contribute to dandruff, such as Malassezia.
Perform a patch test before using aloe vera extensively to ensure you don’t have an allergic reaction or irritation.

Extract the gel from a fresh aloe vera leaf. You can do this by cutting a leaf open and scooping out the gel with a spoon. Apply the fresh aloe vera gel directly onto your scalp. Massage it gently with your fingertips so that it covers your entire scalp. Let the aloe vera gel sit on your scalp for about 20-30 minutes to allow its nutrients to penetrate. Rinse your hair and scalp thoroughly with lukewarm water. You can shampoo afterward if necessary to remove any residue.

4. Tea tree oil

Tea tree oil has strong antifungal properties that can help combat the fungus (Malassezia) responsible for dandruff. It helps reduce the overgrowth of this fungus on the scalp, which in turn reduces dandruff.Beyond its antifungal properties, tea tree oil also has antimicrobial effects that can help reduce scalp irritation and inflammation associated with dandruff. Tea tree oil acts as a natural solvent, helping to dissolve and remove dead skin cells, excess oil, and other debris that can contribute to dandruff.

Before using tea tree oil extensively, perform a patch test on a small area of your scalp to check for any allergic reactions or irritation.

Tea tree oil is very potent and can cause irritation if applied directly to the scalp. Mix a few drops (about 5-10 drops) of tea tree oil with a carrier oil such as coconut oil, olive oil, or jojoba oil. This dilution helps to reduce the risk of irritation. Using your fingertips or a cotton ball, apply the diluted tea tree oil mixture directly to your scalp. Focus on areas where dandruff is most prominent. Gently massage the mixture into your scalp for a few minutes to ensure even distribution and to stimulate circulation. Leave the tea tree oil mixture on your scalp for at least 15-30 minutes to allow it to penetrate. Wash your hair thoroughly with shampoo and water to remove the oil. You may need to shampoo twice to ensure all oil residue is removed.
Start by using tea tree oil treatment once or twice a week, and adjust based on your scalp's response and the severity of dandruff.

5. Yogurt

Yogurt contains natural fats and proteins that can moisturize and nourish the scalp, reducing dryness and flakiness associated with dandruff. Yogurt has mild anti-inflammatory properties that can help soothe irritation and itching on the scalp, which are common symptoms of dandruff.

Use plain, unflavored yogurt without any added sugars or flavors. Greek yogurt can also be used, but ensure it's plain and not flavored.
Gently massage plain yogurt onto your scalp using your fingertips. Ensure that you cover the entire scalp and focus on areas where dandruff is most noticeable.
Allow the yogurt to sit on your scalp for about 15-20 minutes. This allows the nutrients and beneficial bacteria to work on your scalp.Rinse the yogurt out of your hair using lukewarm water. You may need to shampoo afterward to remove any residue and the smell of yogurt.
You can use yogurt for dandruff treatment once or twice a week, depending on the severity of your condition and how your scalp responds.

6. Coconut Oil

Coconut oil is rich in fatty acids that can help moisturize the scalp and reduce dryness, which is often associated with dandruff. Coconut oil contains lauric acid, which has antimicrobial properties. It may help combat the fungi or bacteria that can contribute to dandruff. Coconut oil can help soothe itching and irritation on the scalp, which are common symptoms of dandruff.

Gently massage warm (but not hot) coconut oil into your scalp using your fingertips. Focus on areas with dandruff or dryness. Leave it on for at least 30 minutes to several hours, or overnight for deeper conditioning. After allowing the coconut oil to penetrate the scalp, wash your hair with a mild shampoo to remove excess oil. You may need to shampoo twice to ensure all the oil is rinsed out. You can use coconut oil for dandruff treatment 1-2 times a week, or as needed. Adjust the frequency based on how your scalp responds.

7.  Olive Oil

Olive oil is rich in monounsaturated fatty acids and antioxidants, which can help moisturize and nourish the scalp, reducing dryness and flakiness associated with dandruff. Olive oil contains antioxidants and compounds like oleuropein that have anti-inflammatory effects. This can help calm scalp irritation and reduce itching. Massaging olive oil onto the scalp can improve blood circulation and promote overall scalp health, potentially reducing dandruff.

Heat a small amount of olive oil (not too hot) until warm. This helps it penetrate the scalp more effectively. Using your fingertips, gently massage the warmed olive oil onto your scalp. Focus on areas with dandruff or dryness. Leave the olive oil on your scalp for at least 30 minutes to several hours. For deeper conditioning, you can leave it on overnight. After allowing the olive oil to sit, wash your hair thoroughly with a mild shampoo to remove the oil. You may need to shampoo twice to ensure all residue is gone. You can use olive oil for dandruff treatment 1-2 times a week, or as needed. Adjust based on how your scalp responds.

8. Neem oil

Neem oil contains compounds like nimbidin and nimbin that have antifungal properties. These can help combat the fungi (such as Malassezia) that contribute to dandruff. Neem Oil also has antibacterial properties, which can be useful if bacterial infection exacerbates dandruff symptoms.
Neem oil can soothe scalp irritation and reduce itching, making it beneficial for relieving dandruff-related discomfort.

Before applying neem oil widely, do a patch test on a small area of your scalp to ensure you don’t have any allergic reactions or sensitivities.

Neem oil is very potent and should be diluted before use. Mix a few drops of neem oil with a carrier oil like coconut oil or olive oil. This dilution helps prevent irritation and ensures even application.
Gently massage the diluted neem oil mixture into your scalp using your fingertips. Focus on areas with dandruff or dryness. Leave the neem oil mixture on your scalp for at least 30 minutes to several hours. For deeper treatment, you can leave it on overnight. After allowing the neem oil to penetrate the scalp, wash your hair thoroughly with a mild shampoo to remove the oil. You may need to shampoo twice to ensure all residue is gone. Use neem oil for dandruff treatment 1-2 times a week initially, and then adjust based on how your scalp responds.


9. Almond Oil

Almond oil is rich in fatty acids and vitamin E, which help moisturize and nourish the scalp. Dry scalp is a common cause of dandruff, and keeping the scalp moisturized can reduce flaking.
Almond oil has natural anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce scalp irritation, which is often associated with dandruff. Regular application of almond oil can promote overall scalp health by improving blood circulation and maintaining the natural pH balance of the scalp.

Before applying almond oil, warm it slightly and massage it into the scalp using your fingertips. Leave it on for at least 30 minutes or overnight if possible. Then, wash your hair with a mild shampoo. This allows the oil to deeply moisturize the scalp and nourish the hair follicles.
For best results, apply almond oil to the scalp once or twice a week as part of your regular hair care routine. Consistency is key to seeing improvements in dandruff and scalp health.

If you have nut allergies, consult with a dermatologist before using almond oil or any almond oil-based products.
Before using almond oil on your scalp, perform a patch test on a small area of skin to check for any adverse reactions.

Almond oil is generally safe and can be an effective natural remedy for mild to moderate dandruff. However, if your dandruff persists or worsens, consult a dermatologist for proper diagnosis and treatment.


10. Fenugreek seeds

Fenugreek seeds contain compounds like alkaloids and saponins that have antifungal properties. These properties can help combat the fungal infections on the scalp, such as those caused by Malassezia, which contribute to dandruff. Fenugreek seeds are rich in mucilage, which gives them a gel-like consistency when soaked in water. This mucilage helps moisturize and soothe the scalp, reducing dryness and flakiness associated with dandruff. Regular use of fenugreek seeds can improve scalp health by nourishing the hair follicles and promoting overall scalp health.

Soak 2-3 tablespoons of fenugreek seeds in water overnight. In the morning, grind the soaked fenugreek seeds into a fine paste. Apply the fenugreek seed paste directly onto your scalp and hair. Ensure it covers the scalp thoroughly, focusing on areas with dandruff. Leave the paste on for about 30 minutes to an hour. Rinse your hair thoroughly with lukewarm water. You can follow up with a mild shampoo to remove any residue. Use this fenugreek seed paste 1-2 times a week initially. Adjust the frequency based on how your scalp responds.

Some individuals may be allergic to fenugreek seeds. If you experience any irritation or allergic reactions, discontinue use, wash your hair and consult a healthcare professional.

Some Important Tips:

• (i) Ensure your diet includes foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, zinc, and B vitamins, as these nutrients are important for scalp health and can help reduce dandruff.
• (ii) Avoid Stress. Practice stress management techniques as stress can exacerbate dandruff.
• (iii) If yo don't get cure by following above natural remedies then you should consult your problem with a dermatologist or a Healthcare professional.