How to Get Rid of Dandruff Permanently (The Science)

When you’re dressed up for a meeting or a dinner party, the last thing you want is to itch your scalp and then have a waterfall of white flakes fall over your jet-black jacket, exposing your white underwear below. Dandruff is a condition that affects more than half of the world’s adult population, regardless of gender, age, or ethnicity.

Dandruff is the yellow and white flakes of dead skin that are shed by people with dandruff. Overgrowth of yeast feeds on your scalp’s natural oils and promotes skin to shed and is the primary reason behind it.

As a result, the majority of us turn to anti-dandruff shampoos to address the issue. A safer and healthier way for removing dandruff from hair is using natural home treatments, which are simpler to come by and maybe just as effective.

There are many dandruff home treatments that may be used to get rid of dandruff for good.

DIY Exfoliate Packs for Dandruff Remedy

Neem Exfoliate Pack for Dandruff Remedy

Ingredients:

• 2 tbsp of Coconut Oil (carrier, nourishment & moisturizing)
• 1 litre of water (carrier)
• 30 Neem leaves (antifungal & antibacterial)
• 2 tbsp of Granulated Brown Sugar (physical exfoliator)
• Note: Neem Leaf dust & Granulated Sugar will work too.

Directions:

1. Boil some water.
2. Cover the water with the neem leaves and let it sit for a while. Let it sit for at least one night before using it and let it cool down to room temperature.
3. Make a paste with the leaves after draining the water. To the paste, add the coconut oil and sugar. Now that your application package is complete, you may begin the application process. After straining the neem water, you may use it to rinse your hair.

Tea Tree Oil Exfoliate Pack for Dandruff Remedy

Ingredients

• 3-4 tbsp Almond Oil (carrier, moisturizing & nourishment)
• 2 tbsp Granulated Brown Sugar (physical exfoliator)
• 3-4 drops of Tea Tree Oil (antifungal & antibacterial Agent)

Directions

1. Boil some Water
2. Add the almond oil (carrier oil) to the water in a small bowl.
3. Remove the almond oil from the water as soon as it becomes warm.
4. Add brown sugar and tea tree oil and make a well-mixed paste of them.

To know more, check the detailed article on How to Scientifically apply Tea Tree Oil on Hair

Apple Cider Vinegar Exfoliate Pack for Dandruff Remedy

Ingredients

• 1 tbsp Apple Cider Vinegar (chemical exfoliator, antifungal & antibacterial)
• 2 tbsp Crude Honey (moisturizing & nourishment)
• 2 tbsp Amla dust (mild physical exfoliator)
• ½ cup Water (carrier)

Directions

1. Boil some Water
2. Add the amla dust & leave it overnight.
3. Next day, add honey and apple cider vinegar.
4. Mix the ingredients properly and make a well-mixed paste of them.

Lemongrass oil Exfoliate Pack for Dandruff Remedy

Ingredients

• 2 tbsp Granulated Brown Sugar (physical exfoliator)
• ¼ cup Olive Oil (carrier, moisturizing & nourishment)
• 3-4 drop Lemongrass Oil (antifungal &antibacterial agent)

Directions

1. Boil some Water
2. Add the olive oil to the water in a small bowl.
3. Remove the olive oil from the water as soon as it becomes warm.
4. Add brown sugar and lemongrass oil and make a well-mixed paste of them.
5. Your pack is ready.

Rice Water Exfoliate Pack for Dandruff Remedy

Ingredients

• 1 tbsp Lemon juice (pH-balance, antifungal & antibacterial)
• cup water (carrier)
• 3-4 tbsp Sea Salt (physical exfoliator)
• 1 cup rice (moisturizer & nourishment)

Directions

1. Rinse the rice under running water to remove any remaining dirt.
2. Now, using the recommended quantity of water, bring the rice to a boil.
3. Remove the rice from the water and let to cool.
4. Add the lemon juice and sea salt to the heated rice water.
5. Once you’ve thoroughly combined the materials, your pack will be ready to go.

Note: Before you follow any of the remedies, do a patch test to prevent reactions like rashes, because scalp sensitivity differs from person to person.

How to apply Exfoliate pack

1^st step: Shampoo your hair can help to remove any dirt that has already become loose.

2^nd step: Dap your hair with a towel to dry it, but make sure that your scalp remains damp.

3^rd step: Use a tail comb to section your hair in four equal parts. Choose a part of your scalp and use your fingertips to spread the pack to that section of your scalp. Then do it again with the other three parts.

4^th step: Use your fingers to gently massage the pack into your scalp in a circular manner while avoiding the use of your fingernails. Exfoliating dead skin cells, debris, and oil from your pores is another benefit of massaging your scalp. Take your time with this step and complete it in 5 minutes.

5^th step: Following a 15-minute massage, remove the pack from your scalp and let it air dry. As a result, the natural nutrients in these packs will be better able to penetrate the scalp.

6^th step: Then use lukewarm water to thoroughly rinse the pack from your hair. Use gentle massaging motions while washing to get rid of any remaining dead skin cells, dandruff flakes, or other oily buildups.

7^th step: Rinse your hair well with warm water and a mild shampoo to remove any lingering flakes. And if there are still any flakes in your hair, give your hair another shampooing.

8^th step: Despite the fact that these packs include hydrating ingredients, if your hair is very dry, you should apply a hair mask or conditioner instead.

Note: Use a paraben-free shampoo and do this once each week.

Here are Some Natural Home Ingredients for Dandruff

Neem’s scientific effect on Dandruff

When it comes to health, the Neem tree has been called ‘Sarva Roga Nivarini,’ which literally translates to “Universal Healer.” There are many skin medicines that use the Neem Leaf because of its impressive list of medicinal characteristics that include potency in the treatment of infections, antiviral, antibacterial, and antifungal. Due to the fact that most cases of dandruff are caused by fungal colonization of the scalp, using a natural treatment such as neem will provide great results. It also aids in the maintenance of the scalp’s pH balance, helping to keep dandruff at bay. A key component of Neem oil is the anti-inflammatory compound known as nimbidin. Research shows that this compound may be helpful for the treatment of dermatitis, psoriasis, and other types of hair loss-causing scalp irritation.

To know more, check the detailed article on How to Scientifically Apply Neem Oil on Hair

Sea Salt’s scientific effect on Dandruff

Sea salt is a natural exfoliant for the skin and the scalp and has certain advantages for your hair. Dandruff may be caused by a variety of factors, the most common of which is clogged pores. When you exfoliate your scalp with sea salt, it helps loosen up the flaky buildup on your hair. As a result, your dead skin is removed, and your scalp is cleaned and your pores are unclogged. When your scalp is too oily, it may lead to the development of dandruff. Your sebaceous glands’ overproduction of sebum may clog your pores and irritate your scalp. The excess oil on your scalp is absorbed by salt, which helps to combat the problem. As it absorbs moisture from the scalp, it helps to keep it dry, which inhibits the growth of yeast.

Coconut Oil’s scientific effect on Dandruff

Coconut oil works to keep the skin hydrated, which helps to keep dandruff at bay. Eczema may cause inflammation and irritation of the skin, and coconut oil has been shown in studies to help alleviate these symptoms. One scientific study found that using virgin coconut oil on the skin reduced atopic dermatitis symptoms by 68%. The finest coconut oil to use is virgin cold-pressed.

Apple Cider Vinegar’s scientific effect on Dandruff

Fermented apple juice is the primary ingredient of apple cider vinegar, which is a condiment and a healthy food. It has long been utilized for its health advantages, and making and eating it are both simple tasks. It adds luster and softness to your hair, making it a great anti-dandruff product.

When it comes to treating dandruff, nothing beats apple cider vinegar. It contains acetic acid, which helps keep your scalp’s pH in check. Apple cider vinegar is a natural treatment for dandruff and a dry scalp since it cleans your scalp of any product buildup.

Tea Tree Oil’s Scientific Effect on Dandruff

Since ancient times, people have relied on tea tree oil for its therapeutic properties. It may work wonders for your hair and scalp, restoring their natural health. The best natural method to clean your hair without damaging it or making it dry is to use tea tree oil on both scalp and hair.

Tea tree oil is a great cleaning agent because of its antibacterial characteristics. It helps battle all the viruses, many species of bacteria, and fungus that build up on your hair and scalp due to exposure to the environment.

Almond Oil’s Scientific Effect on Dandruff

Almond oil is a nutritional powerhouse, despite its thin consistency. Oleic, Linoleic, and Palmitic acids are rich in omega fatty acids; vitamin E (an antioxidant); polyphenols, squalene, minerals, and vitamins that help nourish the scalp; and it also contains antioxidants like vitamin E. In addition, the texture’s lightness moisturizes both the hair and the scalp.

Almond oil not only works well with a wide range of types of hair but also enhances the efficacy of other haircare components. To assist improve other components’ permeability, essential oils are often utilized as a carrier. With other moisturizing and plant-derived oils, it’s a perfect match. Ingredients often found in hair care formulations aren’t adversely affected by it.

Almond oil softens dandruff, making it easier to wash away once it has been softened with the oil. This also aids in the prevention and treatment of dry scalp ailments such (seborrheic dermatitis) and psoriasis of the scalp.

You must make certain that the product you utilize is pure and unadulterated in any way. The finest oil to use is unrefined, cold-pressed sweet almond oil.

Brown Sugar’s Scientific Effect on Dandruff

Brown Sugar may also be used as a physical exfoliant in place of white sugar. It will remove dead skin cells from the scalp, revealing new, unclogged skin, and stimulating blood flow to the hair follicles. Sugar may also assist in preventing product buildup around the hair strands by deodorizing them.

Lower particle size and greater molasses content mean it’s kinder on hair and scalp. An increase in the particle size of sugar may make it abrasive, which could result in injury. Gallic acid as well as other polyphenols in molasses act as antioxidants, helping to protect cells from harm caused by unstable chemicals known as free radicals. To top it all off, use organic sugar if possible.

Olive Oil’s Scientific Effect on Dandruff

Due to its hydrating and anti-oxidant properties, olive oil has long been considered one of the finest natural treatments for dandruff.

Research on the moisturizing effects of olive oil indicates that it may have a significant impact.

With regular use, olive oil eliminates dandruff & sebum construct on the scalp and unclogs the hair shafts, helping to keep your hair healthy. Olive oil’s anti-oxidant qualities assist to maintain the scalp healthier and free of free radical-induced oxidative stress. Many skin and hair issues, such as hair loss, dandruff, premature aging, and acne, may be traced back to oxidative stress. Extra virgin olive oil provides the greatest results when used as directed.

Raw or Crude Honey’s Scientific Effect on Dandruff

The humectant properties of raw honey make it an excellent moisturizer. It works by absorbing moisture in the air and transferring it to the scalp, where it adds hydration. Honey has an AHA called gluconic acid, which is great for exfoliating the scalp naturally. By balancing the scalp’s hydration and removing excess oil, it has exfoliating effects.

Honey contains many antioxidants, including chrysin, pinobanksin, catalase, and pinocembrin, as well as vitamins B1, B2, B3, B5, and B6. Honey is also a good source of fiber. As well as these, it has a plethora of other elements and minerals as well. Examples of these are calcium, iron, copper, manganese, and phosphorus. As a result, the scalp is better equipped to fight dandruff as well as other typical scalp ailments thanks to all of these beneficial nutrients.

Research reveals antibacterial and antioxidant properties of raw honey and high nutritional content of crude honey according to one study.

Lemongrass Oil’s Scientific Effect on Dandruff

A very high concentration of anti-fungal capabilities may be found in lemongrass essential oil. A fungal infection in the body may be prevented by using this method. Candida species development on the skin, nails, and hair is particularly claimed to be combated by this treatment. The use of this product topically helps to prevent the development and growth of any kind of yeast-based illness, which helps to eliminate dandruff-causing germs from the scalp. Following research performed in 2015, it was shown that scalp tonics containing 10% lemongrass oil decreased dandruff by an astounding 81 percent after just two weeks of use.

To know more about Lemongrass check this detailed article on Everything about Lemongrass Oil for Hair (The Science)

Rice Water’s Scientific Effect on Dandruff

The combination of a dry scalp and a fungal infection is the primary reason for dandruff on the scalp. Dandruff may be cured with rice water, according to scientific research, which shows that it is 85-90 percent effective. Rice water is effective in preventing the growth of Malassezia, a fungus that generates dandruff. Because rice water includes zinc and selenium, it is a naturally occurring source of selenium sulfide and zinc pyrithione, both of which are anti-dandruff components. Zinc pyrithione and selenium sulfide are two anti-dandruff chemicals that are often found in shampoos and conditioners. It also gives a moisturizing benefit to the hair shaft and scalp, which helps to prevent build-up, which causes dandruff on the scalp. Regularly using rice water to the hair on a regular schedule may help to keep flakes and dandruff under control.

Lemon Juice’s Scientific Effect on Dandruff

Home treatments for various kinds of dandruff all point to lemon as the obvious winner. Lemon’s anti-oxidant and vitamin C content, as well as citric acid (a derivative of vitamin C), makes it beneficial for the immune system, as well as the skin and hair. When it comes to distinguishing between dandruff and dry scalp or psoriasis of the scalp, there is usually some misunderstanding, but lemon is helpful for all of this.

Lemon’s citric acid aids in the battle against dandruff at the hair follicles’ roots. Using a shampoo with lemon extracts can help you get rid of dandruff because of fungus. It reduces the amount of natural hair oil secreted from the scalp, which aids in the removal of buildup and flakes from the scalp. In terms of scalp problems, it works well for both dry and oily ones. A natural chemical exfoliant like lemon juice helps remove dead skin cells and oil buildup from the scalp. It also does a great job of keeping hair from becoming greasy or oily. According to 2015 research, the citric acid in lemons acts as a natural pH balancer on the scalp. As a result, using lemon on your hair may help decrease the occurrence of dandruff.

A great oil for dandruff is Lemon oil. Do you know that the antimicrobial effects of lemon oil are well-known and scientifically proven? As a result, it’s often recommended for treating dandruff and even lice when applied topically. To know more, check this detailed article on Everything about Lemon Oil for Hair (The Science)

Amla’s (Indian gooseberry) Scientific Effect on Dandruff

Amla has many hair benefits, including treating dandruff and regulating hair loss.

Amla, which is high in vitamin C, may help with dryness and help keep dandruff from building up on your hair. The anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial characteristics of this shampoo are particularly helpful in preventing the development of dandruff. Amla aids in decreasing dandruff itching by cleaning the scalp of impurities and restoring the scalp’s pH levels to their ideal state.

DANDRUFF TREATMENTS

Dandruff may be managed by using medicated shampoos and a strict hair-care regimen. Switch anti-dandruff shampoos every 2-3 weeks instead of sticking to one to avoid your hair becoming accustomed to it.

Below is a list of anti-dandruff ingredients to look for in your shampoo along with their characteristics:

• Zinc Pyrithione: Pyrithione Zinc’s antibacterial and antifungal qualities aid in the fight against dandruff and Seborrheic Dermatitis-causing fungus.
• Selenium Sulfide: Shampoos that include Selenium Sulfide as a primary ingredient decrease dandruff-causing bacteria and dead skin cells. (Caution: While this shampoo claims to get rid of dandruff, it also has the potential to destroy your beautiful hair color. So, if you’ve just dyed your hair, you may want to try a different approach to dandruff control.)
• Salicylic Acid: It works to remove the flakes, but it may dry up your scalp in the process. Use a moisturizing conditioner after to keep your hair moisturized.
• Ketoconazole: For best results, use a shampoo that contains this component. Infections and skin problems are treated with ketoconazole, an antifungal prescription drug. This is an excellent regular shampoo if you suffer from Seborrheic Dermatitis.
• Tar: Hair loss is caused by the rapid death and flaking of your scalp’s skin cells. It aids in the management of dandruff by reducing sebum production. Hair discoloration may occur if you use tar-based shampoos.
• Tea Tree Oil: Tea Tree Oil, a popular component in shampoos and conditioners these days, offers antifungal and therapeutic qualities. This substance, which is found in Ayurvedic medicine, does wonders for your hair and scalp.

What Is Dandruff?

To put it another way, Dandruff is really a minor type of seborrheic dermatitis of the scalp. Malassezia yeast, a single-celled organism, produces an abundance of fungi in the scalp, which sets off an immunological reaction on the skin and leaves sufferers in a state of chronic pain. If you want to know more, this yeast feeds on the sebum in your hair, which is made up of fatty acids like oleic acid.

Because of the oleic acid, the immune system attacks the inflamed skin and wants to shed it. Dandruff is the collective name for the small yellow and white skin flakes that the scalp has shed. In contrast to popular belief, which links dandruff only to the scalp, this response may occur elsewhere on the body. You may be surprised to learn that dandruff may afflict infants as young as a few weeks old. Cradle cap is the term used to describe dandruff on a baby’s scalp.

Dandruff may be exacerbated by certain types of weather. Dandruff may develop for a variety of reasons, with humidity being one of them, while the dry winter air is another.

There are a variety of unpleasant side effects associated with this response, including itching, dryness, redness, and overall irritation in conjunction with the bothersome flakes. Apart from that, dandruff is not harmful. It’s not a life-threatening problem. In other words, dandruff is completely harmless to your health. But for most of us, the pain and humiliation are enough to make us want to do something about it.

What’s Triggering Your Dandruff?

What causes dandruff in the first place? To begin, it’s important to note that dandruff is very widespread. That it’s so widespread that 50 million people have it is proof of its prevalence. Also, having dandruff isn’t a sign that you’re filthy or unhygienic. One thing to keep in mind is that some of us are more sensitive to the oleic acid produced by yeast, which may cause an allergic response. Your body becomes more sensitive as a result, yet you don’t become filthy. There are a few factors that may set off or exacerbate the illness, so figuring out what’s causing it is the first step in finding a long-term solution.

• Not Washing Your Hair Enough: The frequency with which you should wash your hair is determined by your body’s natural chemistry, your hair type, and a few other variables. One sign that you aren’t cleaning your hair enough is dandruff. When you don’t wash your hair often enough, your scalp becomes oilier and more conducive to the growth of yeast. There will be more flakes if your scalp has more oil on it since yeast thrives in oil. You don’t want an oily scalp, but you also don’t want it to be parched.
• Cold, Dry Weather: Overflowing flakes are probably not caused by cold, dry weather, but it may certainly exacerbate already-existing dandruff. Cold weather dries out your skin, especially your scalp, and skin that lacks structure is less healthy and more brittle. When the weather turns cold, using a humidifier at night may help keep your scalp from drying out and causing more dandruff. Also, use a shampoo that hydrates thoroughly and seals in moisture.
• Warm, Wet Weather: Warm, moist conditions are ideal for yeast, which means that your head and facial hair are prime targets throughout the summer. Dandruff isn’t caused by the weather, but perspiration and heat may make it worse and provide the perfect environment for the Malassezia yeast to flourish.
• Medical condition: Dandruff may develop on its own if there is a chemical imbalance or response on the skin. This may be due to something else, such as an underlying medical issue, which you should rule out first. If you have acne, rosacea, psoriasis, HIV, epilepsy, or Parkinson’s disease, your chance of getting seborrheic dermatitis is much higher. Dandelions have been linked to increased levels of stress, which means your next beach trip may double as a dandruff cure.
• Using the Wrong Products: With seborrheic dermatitis, it is far more probable that the incorrect items may irritate the skin. Shampoo and conditioner chemicals that create an allergic response on your scalp may exacerbate irritation and dryness. If you’re trying to figure out what’s causing your dandruff, the first step is to look at all of the items you use and eliminate those that aren’t the problem.

Dandruff’s Effect on Overall Health

Long-term sufferers of dandruff may have other difficulties in addition to the typical white flaky skin flaking on their clothing. Here are some of the negative health consequences of having dandruff:

• Acne: That sudden rash of pimples may be the result of dandruff. Dandruff may cause pimples if your strands of hair come into touch with your face. While you’re trying to get rid of dandruff from your scalp, we recommend avoiding haircuts or hairstyles that force your hairs to be in continuous contact with your face or cheeks. Other than changing your hairstyle, cleaning your face at least once a day with a face cleanser containing Salicylic Acid may help clear up acne caused by dandruff and its waste on your face.
• Hair Fall: People with severe dandruff may have hair loss, particularly on the scalp. Dandruff and severe dryness both induce itching and ferocious scratching, both of which contribute to this condition. Because of the damage done to the hair and follicles by the continuous traction (scratching), the hair becomes brittle and falls out. First and foremost, please refrain from scratching! In the second place, apply an anti-dandruff shampoo or make your own home treatment to progressively decrease dandruff. Massage some coconut oil into your scalp and hair to alleviate irritation and dryness. As well as being helpful against dandruff, coconut oil’s antifungal and antibacterial qualities make it ideal for moisturizing the scalp.
• Itchy and Greasy Scalp: Dandruff may appear as a consequence of excessive scalp oil production, which causes a buildup. This may result in dandruff and an itchy, greasy scalp and hair, as well as dandruff. Using tea tree oil in conjunction with your shampoo may do wonders for your scalp if this is the case. In many research tea tree oil has been found to substantially decrease greasiness and itching in individuals with dandruff-related symptoms. It’s essential to dilute tea tree oil using water or some other carrier oil before using it topically. When it comes to sensitive skin, using pure tea tree oil may be problematic, particularly if you have it.
• Psoriasis: In the same way that dandruff promotes flake-off, psoriasis is a result of the body’s immune system. Psoriasis patches, on the other hand, may extend beyond your hairline to cover your forehead, neck, and ears. You can tell that you have the disease because of the scaly, reddish, and sometimes grey skin that covers the affected area.
• Eye Problems: It is possible that severe dandruff may irritate the eyes and the forehead. Seborrheic blepharitis, for example, is an inflammation of the eyes induced by scalp and brow dandruff. Symptoms include mild to severe redness around the eyes, as well as oily flakes or scaly areas under the eyelashes. For crusty eyelids, consider using warm compresses in addition to treating dandruff on your scalp. A fragrance-free baby shampoo and water mixture may also be used to wash your eyes gently. Simply use a soft cloth or cotton swab soaked in the shampoo solution, and then rinse with clear water. If your infection doesn’t go away after a few days, contact a doctor right away. Ignoring eye problems may lead to permanent harm to the eye and its neighbouring cells.

Final Thoughts

Dandruff can be a nuisance to have to deal with. Natural dandruff management may be achieved by following the natural treatments listed above. If the issue continues, you should see a dermatologist determine the underlying source of the problem.