An itchy scalp can be quite a turnoff especially when it happens often and in public. The scalp usually itches for various reasons but one that stands out is dandruff. It should be noted that dandruff affects up to 50% of people. It is usually caused by a dry scalp, skin conditions like eczema, allergic reactions to hair and skin products, diet and product build up in the hair.But, the good news is that dandruff can be managed and dealt with so that you feel good about your self and your hair.
While there are plenty of over-the-counter products designed to treat dandruff, natural remedies can be just effective.
Here are some simple and inexpensive remedies to relieve you of an itchy scalp and definitely get rid of dandruff.
1. Apply Aloe Vera
Aloe Vera is a type of succulent plant that is frequently added to skin ointments, cosmetics and lotions.
When applied to the skin, aloe Vera is believed to help treat skin conditions like burns, eczema, psoriasis and cold sores
It may also be beneficial in the treatment of dandruff.
Test-tube studies have also found that aloe Vera can reduce inflammation of the skin and scalp.
How to use Aloe vera Plant to treat dandruff
Cut off the thorns around the aloe vera, cut it into small pieces and lastly slice the pieces in halves to get the gel inside. That is the good stuff.
Apply that diligently to your scalp and hair twice a day. You will notice changes in a week.
2. Minimize Stress Levels
Stress is believed to impact many aspects of health and well-being. It can influence everything from chronic conditions to mental health
While stress itself doesn’t cause dandruff, it can aggravate symptoms like dryness and itching. Therefore, sustaining high levels of stress long-term may suppress the activity of the immune system.
A weakened immune system can reduce your body’s ability to fight off some of the fungal infections and skin conditions that contribute to dandruff.
To keep stress levels under control, try some stress reduction techniques, such as meditation, yoga, deep breathing or aromatherapy
3. Try Tea Tree Oil
Historically, tea tree oil has been used to treat ailments ranging from acne to psoriasis.
It is also proven to have powerful anti-microbial and anti-inflammatory properties, which may help alleviate symptoms of dandruff
In fact, according to one review, tea tree oil is effective at fighting the specific strain of fungus that can cause both seborrhea dermatitis and dandruff
Another 4-week study examined the effects of tea tree oil on dandruff by treating 126 people daily with a shampoo containing either 5% tea tree oil or a placebo.
At the end of the study, tea tree oil reduced the severity of symptoms by 41% and improved greasiness and itchiness
Note that tea tree oil can cause irritation in those with sensitive skin. It’s best to dilute it by adding a few drops to a carrier oil like coconut oil before applying it directly to the skin.
4. Use Coconut Oil
Well-known for its multiple health benefits, coconut oil is often also used as a natural remedy for dandruff.
Coconut oil may help improve skin hydration and prevent dryness, which can worsen dandruff.
Hair experts advise to include coconut oil to your hair regimen at least twice a day in case you suffer from dandruff for the best results.
5. Add Apple Cider Vinegar to Your Routine
Apple cider vinegar has been associated with a variety of health benefits. These include improving insulin sensitivity and minimising weight gain.
Apple cider vinegar is often used as a natural remedy to get rid of dandruff.
The acidity of the vinegar is believed to help stimulate the shedding of dead skin cells on the scalp.
Apple cider vinegar is also said to balance the pH of the skin to reduce the growth of fungus and thus fight dandruff.
Conclusion
Although dandruff can be a frustrating problem, there are plenty of natural remedies available that can reduce symptoms and provide relief.
Next time you start spotting flakes, give a few of these natural remedies a try.
Use these remedies on their own or pair them with over-the-counter products like anti-dandruff shampoos to maximize treatment effectiveness.
Here is a video with other natural remedies you can apply to treat dandruff from your hair.
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