Dandruff is one of those beauty issues that we’d rather not talk about but it’s a really common issue that many people face. To put it simply, dandruff is basically the skin on your scalp flaking. While we all experience the skin on our scalp flaking off, sometimes there is an imbalance of bacteria on our scalp that causes excessive shedding. Now that we know a little more about the cause of dandruff, let’s get to the most important part-how to get rid of it! Sure, there are lots of over-the-counter remedies available but if you want to go the most natural route or just want a more affordable option, check out the DIY remedies below.
Are you surprised to see ACV on this DIY remedy list? ACV is like coconut oil, it can do just about anything! To use ACV for dandruff relief, mix one part ACV to two parts ACV and pour it into a spray bottle. Spritz your scalp and hair evenly and rinse well. ACV clarifies your scalp and can also prevent the yeast that causes dandruff. Bonus tip: if you’re crazy about coconut oil like I am, you can also use it for dandruff as well! Before you wash your hair, apply 3-5 tablespoons of coconut oil into your scalp and leave it on for an hour minimum. Next, wash your hair as usual. The coconut oil should double as a conditioner so you’re all set to go!
When you think of ginger you might think of digestive relief but it can also help you become flake-free. Grab some ginger oil and massage it into your scalp and leave in for about 20-30 minutes. If you don’t have ginger oil, mix one part olive oil with two parts freshly grated ginger and apply to your scalp for 20-30 minutes and shampoo out. Ginger juice has natural antiseptic properties that help combat pesky flakes.
Turmeric is a buzzworthy spice right now for its anti-inflammatory properties but it also helps soothe itchy scalps and increase circulation. You’ll want to mix a teaspoon of organic turmeric with two tablespoons of coconut or olive oil and apply it all over your scalp. Leave the mask on for 1-2 hours and shampoo as usual.
Who knew this kitchen staple can help curb overactive fungi on the scalp that causes dandruff? You have a couple of options with this remedy. You can pour a handful of baking soda and rub it vigorously on your scalp and rinse, no need for shampoo. Or if you just can’t go without shampoo, mix a teaspoon of baking soda with your regular shampoo.
You probably think I’m a little crazy for suggesting this but apparently it works pretty darn well. Mix one part witch hazel and one part mouthwash with eight parts of water. Place the mixture in a spray bottle and spray all over your damp hair and scalp. Another option is to use ¼ cup of mouthwash as a final rinse after your normal shampoo and conditioner.
Aspirin contains salicylates which are the same ingredient in medicated dandruff shampoos so it makes the ideal at-home remedy to try. Crush a couple of aspirins and mix it in with your regular shampoo. Apply it to your hair and scalp, leave it on for a two to three minutes, and wash your hair again with shampoo again but don’t use conditioner.
Fight dandruff with the power of citrus! This is a two-step process which involves massaging two tablespoons of lemon juice onto your scalp and rinsing with water. For step two, you’ll mix a cup of water with a teaspoon of lemon juice and rinse your hair. It’s recommended that you do this daily until you see results.
Coconut oil is the magical cure for pretty much anything now a days, and dandruff is no different. It's got great soothing and healing properties so it's no wonder slathering some of this will give you an itch free head in no time. Just apply to wet hair, cover with a shower cap, and either leave on overnight or rinse after 15+ minutes.
Tea tree oil is found in lots of shampoos and conditioners because of its known effects on dandruff relief. Simply place some drops of oil on your scalp and rub in, let sit 5 minutes, rinse with a mild shampoo, and you're good to go.
Olive oil is great for hair and skin because it's a known moisturizer. Since all dandruff is is dry scalp, it's no wonder this works. Heat some extra virgin olive oil in a pan-not hot just warm! Apply all over your scalp. Wrap your hair in a warm towel for 45 minutes. Rinse out with shampoo and conditioner. You can repeat this a few times a week until your dandruff is gone.
No need to drop a bunch of dough on hair care products when there are lots of remedies for dandruff right at home. Have you ever tried a DIY remedy for dandruff? Did it work for you?