Those white flakes you see on your scalp and shoulders may be dandruff, a scalp condition that can have a number of causes, from dry skin to yeast to contact dermatitis. The Mayo Clinic recommends patience and persistence when treating dandruff. If you'd like to avoid commercial dandruff shampoos, a number of oils may be helpful in treating dandruff. If home remedies and over-the-counter dandruff shampoos don't work, see a doctor or dermatologist.
Tea Tree Oil
Tea tree oil has antifungal properties, and according to a 2002 article published in the "Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology," it is effective against dandruff caused by the yeast Pityrosporum ovale. Researchers divided subjects into two groups, half of which received a placebo shampoo and half of which received a shampoo containing five percent tea tree oil. Forty-one percent of those using the five percent tea tree oil shampoo experienced an improvement in the severity of their dandruff and reported less itching as well. Tea tree oil is an essential oil that may cause irritation if applied directly to the skin. Try a commercial shampoo containing tea tree oil.
Peppermint Oil
Peppermint oil is refreshing, cooling and has antiseptic properties. When applied to the scalp, peppermint oil can relieve dandruff, itching and inflammation, according to the website Surviving-Hairloss.com. As with all essential oils, peppermint oil should be diluted in a carrier oil before being applied to the skin.
Jojoba Oil
Dandruff accompanied by a dry scalp may improve with jojoba oil, according to Columbia University's Ask Alice. Try using a shampoo that contains jojoba oil, or massage jojoba oil into the scalp before shampooing.
Evening Primrose Oil
Unlike the other oils mentioned here, evening primrose oil is an oil you consume rather than apply topically. Evening primrose oil is a source of the essential fatty acid GLA or gamma linolenic acid, which can help improve the condition of your scalp. The website Health911.com recommends beginning with 500mg of evening primrose oil twice each day, and reducing the dosage to 500mg daily when improvement begins to appear.
Rosemary Oil
Rosemary oil is recommended by both Health911.com and Surviving-Hairloss.com. Dilute rosemary oil with a carrier oil, or crush dried rosemary in olive oil and apply to the scalp, shampooing after about 15 minutes.
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