Dandruff is the term used to describe the white “flakes” that sometimes fall from our scalps. As a result, they are sometimes visible both on the hair and on clothing (especially in the shoulder area), which might cause discomfort.
In most cases, dandruff is not a serious condition and does not cause hair loss. However, in rarer cases, severe dandruff can be a sign of seborrheic dermatitis. If you experience persistent itchiness, irritation in the scalp or red spots along the neck, then it would be recommended to visit a specialist.
What causes dandruff?
Dandruff can have several causing factors, including:
- Dry skin – especially in winter when it’s cold outside. This is, perhaps, the most common cause of dandruff. In this situation, the scalp skin is often inflamed, greasy and covered with white “flakes”.
- Insufficient hair shampooing – If you don’t regularly wash your hair, scalp produces cells and oils that cause the appearance of the dandruff.
- Sensitivity to hair care products (contact dermatitis) – Sometimes the sensitivity to certain ingredients of hair care products or hair dyes, can cause redness, itching and dandruff. Washing too often or using too many styling products can irritate the scalp and may lead to the appearance of dandruff.
Home remedies and natural cures
There are many remedies available against dandruff, as it is an extremely common issue. In this article, we’re going to stick to the amazing cures that nature provides us with!
Olive oil
An excellent way to treat dry scalp and reduce the appearance of dandruff is to massage the scalp with warm oil, as follows:
- Heat 1/4 cup of extra virgin olive oil in the microwave for about 30 seconds;
- Apply the oil on your scalp and gently massage it;
- Brush your hair vigorously with a natural hair brush;
- Wash your hair with a high quality shampoo.
The procedure will be repeated twice a week.
Thyme
A simple mixture containing thyme can be extremely helpful in removing dandruff.
- Boil four teaspoons of dried thyme in two cups of warm water for 10 minutes;
- Strain the mixture and let the liquid cool down to room temperature;
- Shampoo the hair and apply the mixture on wet hair
- Gently massage your scalp
Repeat the process twice a week.
Coconut oil
Coconut oil has long been used as a natural balm for preventing dandruff. Simply massage your scalp with a few drops, and let it sink into your skin for 30 minutes. Rinse well afterwards.
Tea Tree Oil
Shampoos containing 5% tea tree oil are also very effective in treating dandruff. Another alternative would be mixing the oil with your usual shampoo (1 drop of oil to 30 grams of shampoo) or simply applying the oil to the scalp right after shampooing.
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