Causes of dandruff include:
- Seborrheic Dermatitis
- dry skin
- allergic reactions to hair and skin products
- other skin conditions, such as eczema or psoriasis
- poor diet
- overgrowth of a yeast-like fungus called Malassezia
Dandruff can be eliminated at home using the natural remedies below.
1. Tea tree oil
Tea tree oil contains a compound called terpinen-4-ol, which possesses powerful antimicrobial properties. Tea tree oils containing high concentrations of terpinen-4-ol may help reduce dandruff by suppressing the growth of fungi and bacteria on the scalp.
A review from 2017 examined the antimicrobial effects of various essential oils. The authors suggested that the compounds in tea tree oil may effectively control S. epidermidis bacteria, a bacteria associated with dandruff.
Applying tea tree oil directly on the scalp can cause inflammation or rashes, so people interested in using tea tree oil to treat dandruff can start by adding a few drops to their regular shampoo. Alternatively, shampoos containing tea tree oil are available in some drug stores and online.
2. Coconut oil
Coconut oil may help improve hydration, reduce irritation, and prevent fungal growth on the scalp.
Findings from a test tube study found that cultured coconut extract lowered inflammatory markers in human skin samples.
According to the findings of another clinical trial, applying virgin coconut oil to the skin led to a 68.23 percent decrease in atopic dermatitis symptoms in a group of 117 children aged 1 to 13 years old.
These preliminary studies show promising results, but researchers need to carry out more investigations to evaluate the role of coconut oil in treating dandruff.
People can try applying coconut oil directly to the scalp before washing it out or find a shampoo that contains coconut oil.
Coconut oil is available for purchase in grocery stores, health food, and online.
3. Aloe vera gel
Aloe vera is a succulent plant known for its healing properties. The gel in its leaves contains several bioactive compounds, such as amino acids and antioxidants, that may reduce dandruff.
Authors of a 2019 review examined 23 clinical trials involving Aloe vera. The findings of these studies suggest that aloe vera gel may improve moisture retention in the skin and promote wound healing. Aloe vera may also reduce inflammation, which can help people with dandruff symptoms, such as itchiness.
Research from 2015 suggests that the antifungal and antibacterial properties of Aloe vera may prevent dandruff.
The authors of a small study involving 25 people concluded that a new topical gel containing Aloe vera was effective in treating a form of dandruff called Seborrheic Dermatitis.
People can use aloe vera gel directly from the plant, or purchase the gel online.
Of course, here at The Australian Hair and Scalp Clinic, our natural hair tonics can also effectively reduce and eliminate dandruff. We are here to help.
Simply give us a call on 1800 001 101 now and we will provide you with all the details to get your dandruff problem under control.