Tea tree oil, a primary ingredient in tea tree shampoo, is extracted from the leaves of shrubs indigenous to Australia and New Zealand. The extraction contains powerful anti-bacterial, anti-fungal and anti-viral properties ideal for soothing head dandruff. Consult with your healthcare provider prior to relying on tea tree shampoo for dandruff control.
Dandruff in Adults
Scalp inflammation may result in seborrheic dermatits, a mild form of dandruff. MedlinePlus explains that the sebaceous glands, responsible for skin lubrication and located adjacent to the hair follicle, may secrete excess oil. The accumulation of oil results in a type of fungal yeast infection known as malessizia, which is characterized by a flaky or scaly appearance of the scalp. Tea tree shampoo not only regulates the sebaceous glands, it also contains anti-fungal properties that terminate the fungal yeast infection. A study published in the December 2002 edition of the "Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology" concluded that a shampoo with a 5 percent concentration of tea tree oil is effective in the treatment of dandruff.
Dandruff in Infants
Cradle cap is a temporary skin condition in infants that is characterized by itchiness, inflammation and skin breakage. Scales, or dandruff, may form on the scalp, eyelids, ear, nose and groin. Cynthia Olsen of the International Aromatherapy and Herb Association recommends soothing the symptoms associated with cradle cap by gently massaging a solution of 1 part tea tree oil and 10 parts almond oil onto the infant's scalp prior to washing the solution off with tea tree shampoo.
Scalp Health
Itchiness is a common symptom of dandruff. Regular application of tea tree shampoo will remove impurities and soothe skin irritation by eliminating the accumulation of oil in the scalp and hair. Olsen reports that by massaging tea tree oil into the scalp, the oil will not only remedy an itchy scalp and cleanse it of dead skin cells, but the production of healthy hair is enhanced.
Preparation
Although tea tree oil is available in a shampoo, tea tree oil may also be combined with carrier oils to create a homemade solution for dandruff. According to Surviving-hairloss.com, carrier oils, such as jojoba, olive and sesame oil, are necessary to dilute the essential oils. To treat dandruff, mix 20 drops of tea tree oil with 1/4 cup of a carrier oil and massage 1 tsp. of the solution into your scalp for two to three minutes. Allow the solution to rest for approximately one hour before washing your hair.
References
- Surviving Hairloss: Essential Oils
- International Aromatherapy and Herbs Association; The Benefits of Tea Tree; Cynthia Olsen
- MedlinePlus: Sebhorrheic Dermatitis
- MedlinePlus: Sebaceous Gland
- "Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology"; Treatment of Dandruff With 5% Tea Tree Oil Shampoo; Satchell A.C., et al; December 2002
