Before considering natural ways to treat dandruff, it would be helpful to define what the condition is.
Dandruff is a skin condition of the scalp which is characterised by irritating and itchy white flakes. In addition to any discomfort there is the social embarrassment of the obvious presence of these white flakes on clothing.
Dandruff may have a number of underlying factors including:
• Sensitivity to hair products
• Dry skin
• Seborrheic dermatitis
• Growth of a Malassezia yeast (a type of fungus)
So, whether the skin irritation or social stigma is more uncomfortable, there is a clear need to clear this condition. The choices are:
• Conventional over-the-counter chemical treatments
• Prescribed medications
• Natural alternative treatments
Conventional over-the-counter chemical treatments
These are for topical application and include the following:
• Pyrithione zinc shampoos
• Tar-based shampoos
• Shampoos containing salicylic acid
• Selenium sulphide shampoos
Prescribed medications
The medical profession may see fit – once again entirely ignorant of a condition’s underlying causes – to prescribe such medications as topical anti-fungal agents, corticosteroids or immunomodulators (thereby dabbling with immune system function).
Natural ways to treat dandruff – the healthy alternatives
The following natural ways to treat dandruff can be just as effective as purchased over-the-counter synthetic chemical products.
Tea tree oil
This wonderful natural oil has been used for many years as a treatment for such skin conditions as psoriasis and acne.
Additionally, tea tree oil has been found to exhibit antimicrobial and antifungal properties – this is very relevant to the treatment of dandruff. A review found that tea tree oil is also particularly effective at countering the Malazessia yeast – a fungal possible underlying cause of dandruff.
Tea tree oil in its undiluted form can be a minor skin irritant – for this reason it is best diluted by adding a few drops to a carrier oil such as coconut or jojoba oil before direct application to the skin.
Coconut oil
This natural oil is revered for a multitude of health benefits and in this context, when applied topically, acts by improving hydration of the skin, prevention of dryness of the skin and easing any inflammation. the
It is believed that coconut oil has additional antimicrobial properties which may act against dandruff-causing strains of fungus.
Aloe vera
Extract of aloe vera is a common addition to ointments and lotions as a moisturising and soothing agent.
Aloe vera also boasts antifungal properties – these may act against species of fungi that are causative agents of dandruff.
Minimising stress levels
The importance of considering stress when dealing with chronic conditions cannot be overstated.
Stress is recognised as affecting many aspects of health and wellness, impacting everything from chronic conditions through to mental health.
Long term stress acts to suppress the immune system – in the context of skin conditions (including dandruff), this will impair the body’s ability to counter fungal infections.
Stress management techniques may include:
• Meditation
• Yoga
• Deep breathing exercises
Apple cider vinegar
Apple cider vinegar is associated with a number of health benefits including being amongst the natural ways to treat dandruff.
Apple cider vinegar’s therapeutic value is through its mild acidity which acts by stimulating dead skin cells on the scalp and balancing the skin’s pH – this reduces any fungal growth and treating dandruff.
Use apple cider vinegar by adding a few drops to an essential oil carrier and spraying directly. it with just a few drops of essential oils and spray directly onto your hair.
Omega-3 fatty acids
Omega-3 fatty acids, in addition to a multitude of other health benefits, are crucial for the health of your skin – managing skin oil production and hydration. They additionally have anti-inflammatory properties which may relieve skin irritation and treat dandruff.
Foods that are rich in omega-3 fatty acids include:
• Fish, particularly mackerel and salmon
• Seeds – chia and flaxseed are good sources
• Nuts such as walnuts
You could also take a fish oil supplement to help increase your intake.
Probiotics
Probiotics are beneficial “good” gut bacteria that are associated with a multitude of health benefits – including protection from allergies and cholesterol control. (see our article on probiotics)
Probiotics additionally enhance immune function to fight the fungal infections that may underlie dandruff.
Baking soda
Baking soda is an inexpensive, convenient and easily available remedy for dandruff.
It acts as a gentle exfoliant by aiding the removal of dead skin cells and also has antifungal properties – both of these benefit the treatment of dandruff.
To use baking soda as a treatment for dandruff, apply it directly to wet hair and massage it into your scalp.
Avoiding certain foods
Modifying your diet by limiting (or even eliminating) certain foods can relieve any inflammation present and prevent fungal growth and improving the levels of “good” bacteria within the gut. This will aid the treatment of dandruff.
Foods that fall into this category include the following:
• Refined carbohydrates – including white bread and pasta
• Red meat
• Processed foods
• Fried foods
• Refined sugars – found in sugary foods and soft drinks
Additionally, there are a number of foods may also act as “triggers” of such skin conditions as eczema which contribute to the condition of dandruff.
These “trigger” foods include the following:
• White flour
• Foods containing gluten
• Aubergines
• Peppers
• Tomatoes
If you are seeking natural ways to treat dandruff do try any of the above natural treatments singly or in any combination.
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