Dandruff is at best annoying. At worst, it can be a symptom of an infection. If you'd rather avoid over-the-counter dandruff shampoo, or the more harsh regimens that can be prescribed by your doctor, try some natural remedies. However, if the natural remedies don't resolve your dandruff, consult your doctor to ensure it's not a symptom of a bigger issue.
Cease Product Use
The simplest natural remedy is to stop using hairspray, gels, mousse or other products. The idea behind the remedy, as the Mayo Clinic notes, is that some products cause contact dermatitis, which results in itchy, flaking skin. On the scalp, this can mimic dandruff, resulting in embarrassing flakes. By removing the source of the irritation, the contact dermatitis resolves and the dandruff-like flakes disappear.
Shampoo Often
If you regularly go a few days between washing your hair, this may be the cause of your dandruff. Oil and dead skin build up on your scalp. By washing more frequently, you'll remove this buildup and the resulting dandruff flakes.
Lifestyle Changes
Dandruff is a common symptom of stress, notes the Mayo Clinic. If you are experiencing a significant period of stress, find the time to relax and unwind. Use yoga, exercise, meditation and get plenty of rest to reduce your stress levels. If stress is the cause, these lifestyle changes can ameliorate your dandruff.
Nutritional Therapy
Add zinc, B vitamins and healthy fats to keep your dandruff at bay, suggests the Mayo Clinic. In addition, nutritional therapy that identifies any potential allergies you have can moderate your dandruff. Avoiding citrus fruits, dairy, too much salt and sugar, and seafood is helpful to some sufferers, notes Healthline.com.
Tea Tree Oil
Washing your hair daily with tea tree oil has been proven effective as an antifungal and antibiotic treatment, the Mayo Clinic notes. This treatment is particularly helpful if you suspect your dandruff is caused by psoriasis, eczema or a yeast infection. However, these conditions need proper diagnosis if the natural remedies you've tried don't remedy your dandruff. In addition, tea tree oil can cause an allergic response in some people.
