It’s been reported that dandruff affects up to 50% of the human population. We’ve all been there, dry scalps are no fun. What’s worse is that most home remedies for dandruff involve using strange chemicals that many people don’t feel comfortable putting in their hair. Luckily, for those searching for natural dandruff solutions we’ve compiled a list of the best natural remedies to help fight dandruff:
1. Tea tree oil
Tea tree oil works wonders on the skin. It’s been used to cure everything from acne to psoriasis, and it also works wonders on dandruff. Tea tree oil contains powerful anti-microbial and anti-inflammatory properties, and studies have shown that tree oil is effective at combating the particular type of fungus that causes dandruff as well as seborrheic dermatitis. For folks looking to fight dandruff naturally (or just treat their skin better in general) we highly recommend tea tree oil.
2. Coconut oil
Coconut oil is another wonderful multi purpose remedy that not only fights dandruff, but also hydrates the skin. Studies have shown that applying coconut oil to the scalp over 8 weeks reduced dandruff symptoms by over 68%, compared to just 38% in the mineral oil group, making this natural remedy a great option for those looking to get rid of dandruff naturally.
3. Aloe vera
Aloe vera works wonders on the skin, and is a common ingredient included in most lotions and skin care products. Highly hailed for its healing and regenerative properties aloe vera has been used in multiple cultures around the world as an ointment that can heal everything from burns to psoriasis to dandruff. What’s more, studies have shown that aloe vera is effective in combating several different types of fungi that cause premature balding and hair loss in the scalp.
4. Apple cider vinegar
Apple cider vinegar (ACV) has been associated with a number of health benefits, including aiding in the increase of weight loss and improving insulin sensitivity. It’s also been utilized as a natural method of combating dandruff. The acidity of apple cider vinegar is purported to aid in the shedding of dead skin cells on the scalp, and it’s also reported to help balance the pH levels of the skin, thus reducing the growth of fungi that cause dandruff. If you’d like to give apple cider vinegar a try, mix a few tablespoons in with your anti dandruff shampoo or combine it with other essential oils and spray it directly onto your hair.
5. Baking soda
This common household item found in most kitchens is widely used around the world as a natural solution to combat pesky dandruff. Baking soda is believed to act as a gentle exfoliant that removes dead skin cells and reduces scaling and itchiness in the scalp. One study measured the anti-fungal properties of baking soda on common strains of skin fungus and impressively, baking soda was able to completely impede fungal growth in 79% of the test specimens after just seven days of treatment.
Another study looked at the effects baking soda had on patients with psoriasis. It was found that treatment with baking soda baths significantly reduced both itchiness and irritation after just three weeks of treatment. For those looking to try this remedy, apply baking soda directly to your wet hair and massage it into the scalp. Let it sit for a minute or two, then rinse and continue shampooing your hair as usual.