WHAT ARE DANDRUFF?
It is when the skin of your scalp flakes and gets irritated. It can be caused by a fungus (called Malassezia) or can be just your skin exfoliating itself. Your skin continually regenerates itself and during this process you might encounter a few dandruff. Dandruff are the white flakes you spot on your collar and quickly brush off!
WHAT ARE THE DIFFERENT TYPES OF DANDRUFF?
Pityriasis Steatoides (oily dandruff):
Oily hair and scalp that is irritated and inflamed.
Pityriasis Simplex (dry dandruff):
Dry and flaky scalp that is itchy and irritated.
WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN DRY DANDRUFF & DRY SKIN?
They have the same symptoms which can be confusing (itchiness, scaly skin). Dry skin is usually smaller flakes and can be found on other parts of the body. Hair exfoliation as well as hair/scalp masks can help get rid of dry skin.
WHAT CAN CAUSE DANDRUFF?
- Over washing or lack of shampooing (accumulation of flakes)
- Change of climate (harsh weather leads to dry scalp)
- Aging, hormones, stress
- Sensitivity/allergy or accumulation of hair products (hairspray, gel
- Skin conditions (psoriasis…)
HOW TO GET RID OF DANDRUFF?
Home remedies
- Changing hair care routine (starting with shampoo)
If you have recently changed or incorporated new products into your routine, make sure it is not the reason you are having dandruffs. Try to alternate between two different shampoos. Your hair gets used to the products and you might not witness the same effects after a long period.
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Aloe vera
It is known to control inflammation because of certain enzymes and fatty acid in it. It also contains nourishing vitamins for your hair such as vitamin C, E, B-12. Aloe vera is also moisturizing but at the same time it won't make your hair greasy. Recomended for both dry and oily dandruff.
You can do it after your shampoo as a conditioner or before your shampoo if you feel like you haven't blended enough and might leave residue.
- Aloe vera gel
- Olive oil
- Apple cider vinegar (optional)
Blend together until it forms like a paste and apply all over your hair (scalp till ends). Take a few minutes to massage your scalp. Leave for 30 mins or more if you have dry hair and wash.
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Tea tree oil
Acts as an antiseptic that can help control bacterias and fungus. It improves blood flow and help nutrients reach your hair follicules. ALWAYS dilute it with a carrier oil (coconut oil, olive oil, castor oil). You can add a few drops to your regular shampoo and massage it for 3-5 minutes and rinse. Recommended for oily dandruff. For dry dandruff add honey.
- Baking soda
- Honey (optional)
Blend together by adding a few drops of tea tree oil. Leave it for 30 minutes and wash. This helps with the pH of the scalp and reduces extra oil.
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Apple cider vinegar
Anti inflammatory and reduces pH balance of your hair that can alleviate itchiness. It contains vitamin C, B and alpha-hydroxy acid which helps exfoliate your scalp. Vinegar can kill fungus that may cause dandruff. Use it as a substitute for your shampoo. Recommended for oily dandruff.
For every 1 cup of apple cider vinegar dilute with ½ cup of water. Wash your hair with it or can be used after shampoo before conditioner.
- Coconut oil
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Lemon juice
Contains antiseptic properties can relieve itchiness and drynes. Also regulates pH balance of your scalp. Recommended for oily dandruff.
For every 1 cup of lemon juice ½ cup of water.
For dry dandruff add yogourt and mix with diluted lemon juice. The yogourt will moisturize your scalp and soothe itchiness.
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Baking soda
Perfect cleanser that removes excess oils and acts as antiseptic. Can be a substitute for shampoo or after your first wash with regular shampoo use it as a second shampoo.
Mix with water for a paste like consistency. Section your hair and apply on the scalp. Massage for 3-5 minutes and rinse out.
*keep in mind that the pH balance of your hair changes throughout the day because of several factors such a weather, hormones, food and hydration...
BEST ANTI-DANDRUFF SHAMPOOS ON THE MARKET WITHOUT PRESCRIPTION:
Nizoral Anti-Dandruff Shampoo
Redken Scalp Relief Dandruff Control Shampoo (works without striping hair from colour)
Philip Kingsley Flaky Scalp Cleansing Shampoo (sensitive hair and scalp)
Neutrogena T/Gel
Oribe Serene Scalp (moisturizing, for dry hair and dry scalp)
Christophe Robin Purifying Shampoo (for oily scalp)
Briogeo Scalp Renewal (natural ingredients. Dry scalp)
Kerastase Fusio Scrubs (exfoliates your scalp, acts as shampoo). Blue for oily and green for dry scalp.
It is all about listening to your body. Changing your diet affects not only your skin but your hair as well. Each person is different meaning some remedies might not necessarily work for you. Also, consider speaking with your doctor if this issue persists. He or she might have to prescribe antifungal shampoo or oral antibiotics.