Dandruff is caused by a dry or oily scalp, and often occurs when hair is either cleansed too often or not enough. Oil and cells build up, causing white flakes and itching. Although dandruff is not serious or contagious, it can be embarrassing. Rather than using medicated shampoos or other treatments, it is possible to relieve dandruff using inexpensive homemade solutions.
Tea Tree Oil
Step 1
Apply 3 tbsp. of tea tree oil to your hair after shampooing. According to the Mayo Clinic, tea tree oil is an antifungal and antiseptic substance that helps treats dandruff. It can be found at health food stores.
Step 2
Rinse out the tea tree oil with cool water.
Step 3
Condition your hair and towel dry it gently.
Vinegar
Step 1
Mix ½ cup of water with ½ cup of white distilled vinegar. The vinegar clarifies your hair by removing product buildup and white flakes.
Step 2
Apply the mixture to your dry hair before shampooing twice a week.
Step 3
Rinse the vinegar and water and follow with your regular shampoo and conditioner.
Olive Oil
Step 1
Pour 1 cup of olive oil into a bowl and heat it in the microwave for 15 seconds.
Step 2
Rub the olive oil into your damp hair and scalp.
Step 3
Use a hairbrush to scrub your scalp and loosen the flakes.
Step 4
Rinse out the olive oil with shampoo after 20 minutes, and condition your hair as normal. Repeat this process twice a week.
Thyme
Step 1
Boil 4 tbsp. of thyme in 2 cups of water for 10 minutes. Mother Nature suggests using thyme to removing dandruff.
Step 2
Strain the mixture and allow it to cool.
Step 3
Pour the thyme onto your hair after shampooing while your hair is still damp.
Step 4
Massage the mixture into your hair and leave it in without rinsing.
Tips and Warnings
- You can also use less styling products on your hair to reduce dandruff. The buildup of products causes dryness and flaking.
Things You'll Need
- 3 tbsp. tea tree oil
- Shampoo
- Conditioner
- Towel
- ½ cup water
- ½ cup white distilled vinegar
- 1 cup olive oil
- Bowl
- Microwave
- Hairbrush
- 4 tbsp. thyme
- 2 cups water
- Strainer
