A dry and itchy scalp is the cause of dandruff, a common condition that affects hair throughout the year. Frequently resulting from the proliferation of the fungus Malassezia, it is particularly noticeable in the winter months when the scalp lacks moisture and becomes parched. Malassezia consumes sebum, the greasy material secreted by the scalp glands. Additionally, this fungus turns sebum into fatty acids that irritate the scalp when it breaks down.
Are you unsure of the cause of your itchy scalp?
Because it doesn’t have any obvious symptoms, dandruff is a sign of a microinflammation that shouldn’t be taken lightly. In addition to a dry and itchy scalp, dandruff can also result from the following other factors:
- Extended duration of stress
- Parkinson’s disease or ailments like eczema
- Brutal or erratic brushing
- Deficiency in nutrients, like vitamin B12
- Improper or sporadic use of hair care products
- Heat and pollution
If your hair always looks greasy or if your scalp feels oily, you are more likely to have dandruff. Intense itching may occasionally occur even in cases where the scalp does not feel dry. In severe cases, the scalp may swell or redden in large areas, and there may be severe itching and flakes that get worse over time.
Many of you turn to using multiple antidandruff products to temporarily solve the issue, but did you know that you can save money on hair care products by trying a few simple, effective at-home remedies?
Several efficacious DIY cures for dandruff include:
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Lemon and coconut oil
Everybody’s grandmother recommends coconut oil. Its antifungal qualities can offer significant relief from dry scalp and itching. Equal parts coconut oil and lemon juice should be combined, then applied to your scalp. After letting it sit for ten to fifteen minutes, thoroughly rinse your hair. This will promote hair growth and nourishment in addition to helping you get rid of dandruff. Since oil freezes easily in colder weather, it’s important to preheat it in the winter.
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Yogurt
Yogurt’s lactic acid helps lessen dandruff, and its protein fortifies your hair from the inside out. It is a veritable gold mine of beneficial bacteria and keeps the scalp from flaking. Spread some fresh yogurt over your hair and scalp. After letting it sit for ten to fifteen minutes, rinse with warm water and pat dry. Yogurt has a lot of anti-fungal properties, so you might try adding black pepper to it.
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Neem
The use of freshly ground neem leaf paste for skin conditions dates back to ancient times. It’s an easy remedy for itchy and dandruff due to its antibacterial, antifungal, and antimicrobial qualities.
As an alternative, you could just boil some fresh neem leaves, let the water cool, and then use it to rinse your hair.
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Aloe vera
Aloe Vera is a natural coolant that relieves flakiness and skin irritation, makes your scalp itchy-free, and works as a cure-all for all kinds of skin issues. Aloe Vera has antifungal qualities that help treat dandruff and clean dead skin to promote the growth of new skin cells.
After applying aloe vera gel to your scalp and letting it sit for about 30 minutes, wash your hair with a gentle shampoo.
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Vinegar made from apples (ACV)
ACH unclogs hair follicles and pores while acting as a natural hair cleanser. Its acidic properties aid in the removal of dead skin cells from the scalp, stop fungus from growing, and balance the pH of your scalp.
After shampooing, just combine two tablespoons of apple cider vinegar with a cup of cold water to make a mixture, then rinse your hair. Give it a couple of minutes to settle before cleaning it off. It can be used once a week for optimal results.
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Salt
Salt can cause your scalp to become itchy and irritated by absorbing excess oil. Since pimples on the forehead are also caused by an oily scalp, it is best to treat dandruff at home as soon as possible.
Simply mix a small amount of salt with your regular shampoo and wash your hair. Apply it all over your scalp in gentle circular motions, then exfoliate. After a minute or two, give it a wash in lukewarm water.
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Vinegar and olive oil
Olive oil is a lightweight natural conditioner that doesn’t weigh down hair because it acts as a conditioner. When combined with vinegar’s acetic properties, the mixture both increases blood circulation and protects the scalp from fungal infections.
Combine 1 tsp olive oil and 2 tsp vinegar. After evenly applying the mixture to your hair, massage your scalp for five minutes. For optimal effects, wash it with antidandruff shampoo and then apply a conditioner.
In addition to these simple at-home cures for dandruff, there are other helpful hints that can lessen the dryness and flakiness of the scalp.
- Aim to limit your intake of sugar, fats, and carbohydrates.
- Refrain from using styling tools excessively since any form of artificial heat can lead to irreversible damage and dandruff.
- Avoid frequently scraping your scalp.
- Shampoo your hair two or three times a week to help the scalp’s dead skin come off.
- In order to enhance scalp blood circulation, brush your hair frequently.
A well-balanced and health-conscious hair care regimen can significantly lessen the appearance of dandruff. However, you should see a doctor for seborrheic dermatitis, a fungal infection on your scalp, if you experience no relief and the itching or dryness continues.
