How to get rid of dandruff naturally?

Dandruff is a common scalp ailment that causes flaking of the skin on the scalp. Even though it is not contagious or serious, it can be embarrassing and hard to treat. The symptoms of dandruff include flaking of the skin on the scalp and itchy scalp.

Getting rid of dandruff has been a long concern for a very long time. Though there are a lot of products available in the market for curing dandruff, natural remedies are always the best and most effective. It's an advisable to consult a doctor if your dandruff and itching are severe and persistent, or if your symptoms worsen. They might notice an underlying issue that responds to a particular treatment. 

What causes dandruff?

Dandruff can be caused due to various factors, and they include;

• Dry skin

One of the most common causes of dandruff is dry skin. Moisturizing your scalp is the best remedy to get rid of dandruff caused by dry skin.

• Seborrheic dermatitis

Seborrheic dermatitis is a common skin disorder that affects mostly the scalp. Scaly spots, inflamed skin, and severe dandruff are all symptoms of Seborrheic dermatitis. Oily parts of the body, such as the face, sides of the nose, eyebrows, ears, eyelids, and chest, might be affected by seborrheic dermatitis. Seborrheic dermatitis is a medical disorder that affects a lot of people. It is common among the people with medical disorders such as;

• Psoriasis or scalp psoriasis
• HIV
• Acne
• Rosacea
• Parkinson’s disease
• Epilepsy
• Alcohol dependency
• Depression
• Eating disorders
• Recovery from a stroke or heart attack
• A weak immune system
• Fatigue
• Obesity

• Yeast overgrowth

Malassezia, a fungus that grows on the scalp and feeds on the oils released by hair follicles, is a common cause of dandruff. Malassezia isn't normally a concern, but in some people, this might irritate the scalp and lead it to create additional skin cells. These dead skin cells mingle with the oil in the hair and scalp to generate dandruff when they die and fall off.

• Hair care products

Certain hair care products might induce dandruff by irritating the scalp. If a product irritates a person's skin, they should try switching to a soft, non-medicated product.

Here are 10 natural remedies to get rid of dandruff; 

1) Coconut Oil

Coconut oil has got a high reputation for its health and beauty aid properties. It is a natural source of medium-chain triglycerides or MCT's as well as a small amount of monounsaturated fat. Laurie acid, caprylic acid and capric acid are the MCT present in coconut oil. The antimicrobial, antifungal and antivirus properties in these MCTs can fight against dandruff.
Apart from this, coconut oil has also been an anti-inflammatory agent and a great source of moisture content. This helps to improve skin hydration and reduce scalp dryness. 

2) Tea tree oil 

Tea tree oil is an essential oil that is used in skin and hair care remedies. It has got powerful anti-microbial and anti-inflammatory properties that help in relieving symptoms of dandruff. Tea tree oil is beneficial in fighting against the fungus that can cause dandruff. 

3) Fenugreek 

Fenugreek is a great remedy to get rid of dandruff. Fenugreek is a powerhouse that carries everything to make your scalp and hair healthy and clean. Fenugreek has got deep moisturizing and conditioning properties, because of a natural emulsifying agent called Lecithin present in it. The moisture content in fenugreek aids the active oil glands that cause itchy flakes in the scalp. 

4) Lemon 

Lemon is one of the good choices in dandruff remedies. The citric acid present in lemon has a natural pH balance capacity in the scalp. Lemon is also a great source of Vitamin C, flavonoids and iron, are all nutrients beneficial for healthy hair. It also has the potential to remove excess oil content in the scalp.

Using lemon juice directly to the scalp may cause some uncomfortable symptoms including burning and stinging, it is best to use it by mixing it with other ingredients such as coconut oil, yoghurt or honey.

5) Aloe Vera

Aloe Vera has got many properties that are beneficial for curing dandruff. Aloe Vera is an incredible source of moisture content. Applying aloe vera gel can moisturize your scalp and prevent dryness. The anti-inflammatory and antioxidant characteristics of aloe vera can relieve the irritation from dandruff and can also prevent cell damage. 

6) Apple Cider vinegar

Apple cider vinegar is rich in acids and minerals which are great for hair health. It can balance the pH level of your scalp. Antifungal properties in apple cider vinegar can reduce the fungal growth in the scalp. 

7) Neem 

Neem is powerful against the causes of dandruff. Neem is a great moisturizer. The fatty acids and Vitamin E content in the neem makes your scalp hydrated and free from dryness. The antibacterial and antifungal properties in neem help to treat the itchy scalp. 

8) Healthy diet 

Healthy eating is necessary to attain healthy and problem-free hair. The requirement of minerals and vitamins should be taken care of to ensure the health of your hair. Include food items such as leafy vegetables, eggs, nuts, meat, beans etc. to your diet. Try to avoid fried food items, sugar, alcohol, carbonated drinks etc.  

9) Exercise/Meditation 

An unhealthy lifestyle and stress can be a cause of dandruff. Exercise and meditation are great ways to make you feel better. It will promote blood circulation and relaxes your mind and body which in return improve the health of your hair.  

10) Good hair routine

Maintaining a good hair routine is a key factor in getting rid of dandruff. Try to moisturize your hair, wash your hair properly, intake proper diet and exercise can keep your hair healthy. Avoid using hair styling equipment often and avoid exposure to heat and sunlight.