Dandruff is a common skin condition that causes flakes to appear on the scalp. It results from an increased rate of scalp cell turnover and a buildup of dead cells. It can be caused by a dry scalp, excess oiliness, or fungal infections such as those caused by Malassezia, as well as other factors like sensory stress or allergies to certain hair care products. For treatment, specialized shampoos containing ingredients like zinc pyrithione or ketoconazole can be used, along with maintaining a moisturized and clean scalp.
Causes of Dandruff
Oily or Dry Skin: The causes can be a combination of irritated oily skin or very dry skin.
Fungi: The Malassezia fungus, which lives on the scalp, can exacerbate the condition, especially if the immune system overreacts.
Allergies: Allergic reactions to certain hair care products can cause irritation and inflammation.
Hormonal Factors: Hormones can play a role in increasing oil production on the scalp, especially during puberty. Other factors include stress, poor nutrition, hormonal imbalances, overuse of hair products, and exposure to harsh environmental conditions.
Natural remedies for getting rid of dandruff permanently: There are several natural remedies for getting rid of dandruff, including:
Baking soda mixture: This remedy helps lower the pH of the scalp, thus reducing the chances of fungal growth at the roots, which usually causes dandruff and the accompanying annoying itching. This mixture can be prepared by dissolving about one tablespoon of baking soda in a quarter cup of water. Then, rub the mixture well into the scalp for a few minutes, and then rinse the hair thoroughly with lukewarm water. This remedy should be repeated once or twice a week.
Lemon recipe: Lemon is considered one of the most effective ingredients for drying oily scalps and eliminating fungi, itching, and dandruff. Mix the juice of one lemon in a liter of water, then refrigerate the mixture. Begin by washing your hair with shampoo as usual, then rinse it with the lemon mixture, massaging it well into the scalp. Do not rinse the hair afterward. It is recommended to repeat this recipe two to three times a week until the dandruff disappears completely.
Using tea tree oil: Tea tree oil has powerful antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, thus helping to alleviate dandruff symptoms. One study demonstrated its effectiveness against a specific strain of fungus that causes seborrheic dermatitis and dandruff. A four-week study of 126 people showed that using a shampoo containing 5% tea tree oil daily helped treat dandruff and reduced symptom severity by 41%. [4] Using coconut oil: Coconut oil has antimicrobial properties that help moisturize the skin and protect it from dryness, thus combating dandruff. A small study of 34 people showed that coconut oil was as effective as mineral oil in improving skin hydration.
Other research has also revealed its effectiveness in treating eczema, which can contribute to dandruff. One study comparing the effectiveness of coconut oil with mineral oils for treating a type of eczema that causes itching and inflammation showed that using coconut oil on the scalp for eight weeks may It contributed to a 68% reduction in dandruff symptoms compared to 38% for the mineral oil group.
Using aloe vera: Aloe vera gel helps treat many skin conditions, such as psoriasis, burns, and cold sores. It is also beneficial in treating dandruff, as it contains antifungal and antibacterial properties that help protect the scalp from dandruff.
Applying an egg yolk mask: An egg mask helps eliminate dandruff because egg yolks contain vitamin A, which enhances the scalp's ability to produce more sebum, thus preventing dandruff. To prepare the mask, apply one or two egg yolks to the scalp, cover your head with a plastic bag for about an hour, then wash it out with water and shampoo.
Using apple cider vinegar: Apple cider vinegar helps eliminate dandruff because it contains acids that help kill the fungi that cause dandruff. To use it, mix equal parts water and apple cider vinegar in a spray bottle, spray the mixture onto your hair after shampooing, leave it for about 15 minutes, then rinse. It is recommended to use this mixture twice a week.