Dandruff is often caused by normal shedding of dry skin, according to Dr. Robert Molino at San Francisco State University. Other causes for dandruff include excessively oily skin, psoriasis, eczema, dermatitis caused by sensitivity to hair products, a lack of regular shampooing or a yeast-like fungus that lives on the scalp of most adults, says Molino. Homemade preparations can sometimes be effective in controlling dandruff. See your physician or dermatologist if your dandruff is severe or if your scalp is irritated to determine the underlying cause and to see whether prescription shampoos or topical medications are needed.
Herbal Dandruff Shampoo
Step 1
Place 1 cup liquid Castile soap in a small mixing bowl. Stir in 6 drops tea tree essential oil, 4 drops eucalyptus or rosemary essential oil and 1 tsp. olive oil.
Step 2
Stir the mixture slowly until all of the oils are incorporated into the Castile soap. Use a funnel to pour the shampoo into a clean plastic bottle.
Step 3
Wash your hair, and then rinse. Finish with a splash of cold water to seal treatment.
After Shampoo Conditioner
Step 1
Place 2 cups distilled water in a glass or enamel saucepan. Bring the water to a boil.
Step 2
Add 2 tbsp. dried peppermint leaves and 3 tbsp. dried rosemary leaves. Remove the saucepan from the heat and allow the mixture to cool for an hour.
Step 3
Line a strainer with cheesecloth, and then pour the mixture through the strainer into a bowl or pitcher. Stir in 3 tbsp. apple cider vinegar, then pour the mixture into a plastic bottle.
Step 4
Pour the mixture over your hair immediately after rinsing the shampoo. Avoid getting the mixture in your eyes, as the vinegar will sting. Massage the rinse gently through your hair, then rinse with warm water.
Things You'll Need
- 1 cup liquid Castile soap
- Small mixing bowl
- 6 drops tea tree essential oil
- 4 drops eucalyptus or rosemary essential oil
- 1 tsp. olive oil
- Funnel
- Clear plastic bottle
- 2 cups distilled water
- Glass or enamel saucepan
- 2 tbsp. dried peppermint leaves
- 3 tbsp. dried rosemary leaves
- Strainer
- Cheesecloth
- Bowl or pitcher
- 3 tbsp. apple cider vinegar
- Plastic bottle
