5 Home Remedies for Dandruff

Have you spotted some flakes on your shoulders when wearing a dark top? This is a telltale sign of dandruff, which affects nearly 50% of the population. Of course, it rarely indicates anything serious, but it can be uncomfortable and may lead to feeling more self-conscious.

While dandruff is a common skin issue, it can sometimes be difficult to treat. If your routine isn't cutting it, it's time to try something new. Here are 5 home remedies that may help.

1. Aloe Vera for Dandruff

Aloe is known for its soothing skincare properties. It helps relieve inflammation, which could promote better scalp health. Because of aloe’s skin healing components, it may heal the scalp and slow down the development and spread of dandruff flaking. 

2. Coconut Oil for Dandruff

Ah, the smell of the tropical air, coconuts and sunshine is relaxing and beneficial to mental health. When you open up a bottle of coconut oil, you're practically there. Ok, maybe not, but th=e scent sure is nice. Right? Pleasant scent aside, did you know that coconut oil is a beneficial treatment in reducing dry scalp? Dry scalp can lead to dandruff flaking so this is a great option for those early stages. Applying this oil to the scalp at least once a week may help reduce skin breakdown.   

3. Tea Tree Oil for Dandruff

One study showed that a tincture of 5% tea tree oil shampoo improved scalp health and dandruff by 41%. Applying tea tree oil to your scalp can help combat pesky microbes that could lead to a dandruff outbreak. It turns out that different species of fungi can grow on the scalp. It doesn’t affect most people, but it can cause itching, oily buildup and skin flakes for some. And tea tree oil may help with this. Simply apply a few drops to the affected areas. But go slow and do a test patch as some people do experience burning and irritation. It also helps reduce oiliness and itchiness over time. For the safest choice, try a tea tree infused shampoo and avoid direct application.

4. Apple Cider Vinegar for Dandruff

There are a multitude of health benefits attributed to apple cider vinegar or ACV. One little known fact is that it may help shed dead skin cells stuck on the scalp. These cells could contribute to flaking and dandruff on your shoulders and clothes. If you believe in the power of ACV, it's worth a shot. Apply a few tablespoons to your conditioner or add it to other essential oils as a spray or do a final rinse of your hair and scalp before getting to of the shower. But, as above, be aware that some report burning or irritation with direct application so use caution.

5. Omega-3 Fatty Acids for Dandruff

Omega-3 fatty acids are known to improve cardiovascular health and boost the immune system from the inside out. They also contribute to skin health, including wound healing, hydration, collagen production and oil production, according to Cedars Sinai. Take a supplement and add more omega-3 foods to your diet, including fatty fish like salmon and trout or even consider a fish oil supplement if it's not contraindicated.

Flakiness not only signifies that the scalp may not be managing oil production properly, but it also gives the appearance of poor hygiene—though it should not be taken as one, because it isn't, this is how some people see it. And this knowledge or fear can have a real impact on how we present ourselves to the world.

End the embarrassment by making a few lifestyle changes and instituting a better diet to boost intake of Omega-3 fatty acids. But if you have other symptoms, such as patchy places with thicker skin, please see a dermatologist in case there's more going on than just a few flakes.

Keep in mind that these home remedies for dandruff may not work for everyone. If you try these methods and still struggle with dandruff that just won’t go away, consider visiting a dermatologist to explore other options. 

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