Although everyone's scalp sheds dry skin cells, some people's scalps tend to do so with much more zeal and frequency. This chronic shedding of dead skin cells on the scalp is referred to as dandruff. This highly embarrassing condition leaves the sufferer with tiny flakes that become mixed up in strands of hair and find their way onto clothing making it unnecessarily difficult to wear black without incident. If dandruff has been calling the shots lately dictating what you can wear and when, it's time to take control back.
Step 1
Wash your hair with a dandruff-fighting shampoo daily such as Selsun Blue or Head and Shoulders. Treat your shampoo like a conditioner and leave it on your head after you have lathered it into every piece of hair for at least five minutes before rinsing it out.
Step 2
Pour olive oil into a microwave safe container and heat it for 10 seconds or until it is warm but not hot. Massage the warm oil into your scalp and leave it there for at least 20 minutes before washing it out with a dandruff-fighting shampoo. Do this twice a week to help curb dandruff.
Step 3
Mix one part white vinegar to four parts warm water and massage it into your scalp with your hands. Allow the moisture on your head to air dry; the vinegar smell will dissipate on its own as it dries up. Do this at least three times a week to help eliminate dandruff.
Step 4
Eat more foods that contain vitamin B, zinc and flaxseed oil to help to curb and prevent dandruff. In addition to eating healthy, be sure to drink plenty of water to prevent dehydration which can make dry skin and dandruff worse.
Step 5
Avoid using styling products such as hairspray, gel and mousse. These tend to make the scalp oilier and may worsen dandruff.
Tips and Warnings
- Spending some time in the sunshine can help to dry out oiliness in the scalp and alleviate dandruff. Be careful not to spend too much time in the sun so as not to get sunburned.
Things You'll Need
- Dandruff shampoo
- Microwave safe cup
- Olive oil
- White vinegar
- Bowl
