Seborrheic dermatitis is the medical name for the embarrassing but common condition known as dandruff. Many treatment options are available, ranging from specially formulated shampoos to prescription lotions. Although manageable, dandruff is likely something you'll deal with throughout your life. For this reason, people often consider a more natural approach to combating the condition. Tea tree oil is one option that shows promise. However, talk with your doctor before using it or any other natural remedy.
Dandruff
Dandruff development is associated with both yeast and excessive oil production on the skin. The combination causes yellow or white scales to form on the skin. Areas where the dandruff forms may be red and itchy, although these symptoms do not always occur. In some cases, excessive itching and hair loss can develop. Seborrheic dermatitis can form on various body parts, including skin folds, the ears and the face, but it is typically associated with the scalp. Poor hygiene increases dandruff risk, but obesity, stress and environmental conditions are also contributing factors.
Tea Tree Oil Benefits
Tea tree oil -- unrelated to the plants used to make tea -- is used as a topical treatment for many conditions, including acne, skin abrasions and many infections. The oil is thought to have anti-fungal and antibacterial qualities. The National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine reports that preliminary laboratory research supports this, although more extensive study is needed. Some findings, however, suggest that tea tree oil is beneficial for treating dandruff. A study, published in the April 2003 issue of "The Journal of Family Practice" found that using a tea tree oil shampoo reduced itching, scaliness and greasiness in participants with dandruff.
Using Tea Tree Oil
Many shampoos that contain tea tree oil are available over the counter. A 1998 article from the Internal Aromatherapy and Herb Association advises that you can also make your own anti-fungal scalp treatment by mixing 10 drops of tea tree oil with an 8-oz. bottle of shampoo. This will create a 2 percent solution. However, the 2003 research study used a stronger 5 percent shampoo for treating dandruff. Participants saw results in about a month.
Precautions
Tea tree oil is relatively safe, but as with most treatments, there are potential risks. An allergic reaction at the application site is possible, particularly if you use excessive amounts of the oil. Fresh oil, compared to oxidized oil, may be less likely to cause this reaction, according to the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine. Avoid mixing lavender and tea tree oils for use on prepubescent boys because it may cause abnormal hormonal changes. Never use this product orally, because it could have toxic effects.
References
- PubMed Health: Seborrheic Dermatitis
- Medline Plus: Tea Tree Oil
- National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine; Tea Tree Oil; January 2011
- "The Journal of Family Practice"; Does 5 Percent Tea Tree Oil Shampoo Reduce Dandruff?; A.C. Satchell, et al.; April 2003
- International Aromatherapy and Herb Association; The Benefits of Tea Tree; Cynthia Olsen; 1998
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