8 Solutions to Fight Dandruff

8 Solutions to Fight Dandruff

About 20% of the entire US population suffers from dandruff. Although it’s completely harmless since it’s basically dead skin flaking off our scalps, it can be embarrassing and something most will want to fight dandruff. The good news is that you don’t really need any expensive drugs or complicated treatments. Most times you’ll be able to get rid of it by using stuff you have around the house.

Vinegar

While it may sound like a bad idea, rinsing your hair with vinegar is an effective way to fight dandruff. It will exfoliate the excess skin on your scalp, preventing dandruff from forming, and clearing out the pores. Pour 1/2 parts water and ½ parts vinegar in a cup and gently massage your head with the mixture. Wash with water (just water!) after a few minutes and take a shower only after 10 – 12 hours.

Baking Soda

Same as vinegar, baking soda acts exfoliates the dead skin on your scalp and clears out the pores, with the added benefit of getting rid of dandruff stuck between your hairs because of its small particles. Mix one tablespoon of baking soda for each cup of warm water used (mix it inside an empty, clean bottle) and apply generously. Rinse after a few minutes.

Listerine

You may not know this, but Listerine was advertised as a solution for getting rid of dandruff in the 30’s and 40’s in the US. That was due to its fungus-fighting properties, fungus being one of the causes of dandruff. Mix 2 parts water with 1 part Listerine (preferably not the blue or green variants, as they may color your hair) and spray or pour the mixture after you shampoo. Rinse after about 30 minutes.

Aspirin

Here’s another one you may not have known about, but the Salicylic Acid in Aspirin is one of the active ingredients in anti-dandruff shampoos. It has anti-fungal and anti-microbial properties, which makes it very effective as a home remedy, and the rest of the ingredients in Aspirin will help calm an inflamed scalp, usually a bi-product of dandruff. Crush up 2 tablets of Aspirin and mix it with your regular shampoo, making sure you leave the shampoo on your head for at least 2 minutes before you rinse.

RELATED ARTICLE: Wonderful Things That Aspirin Can Do For Your Hair

Lemon

The acid in freshly-squeezed lemons is something else you can use to fight dandruff. It helps break down the fungus that causes the problem and is also free from any chemicals that may damage your hair and scalp. Squeeze 3 tablespoons of lemon, mix one with a cup of water and massage your hair with the rest. Let it sit for a minute or so and rinse your hair with the water-lemon juice mixture. Repeat daily until the dandruff is gone.

Aloe

Although mostly used to treat minor burns, Aloe Vera gel works well if you have problems with dandruff as well. It works differently, its constituents inhibiting the abnormally fast growth of skin cells on your scalp, in turn reducing the number of dead cells, the effect of dandruff. Apply Aloe Vera gel on your head 15 minutes before washing. Then shampoo and wash normally.

Salt

One of the natural ways to get rid of puffy eyes, it can also help to fight dandruff. The abrasive nature of its crystals work as an exfoliator for the dead skin on your scalp, clearing it out so the shampoo can do its job. Massage 3 tablespoons of salt onto your dry or damp scalp (it will feel great, especially if your head itches) and leave it for a couple of minutes. Rinse and wash regularly afterwards.

The Sun

Although not scientifically proven in any way, a lot of people believe that lack of exposure to the sun can cause dandruff. Maybe the sun helps dry up some of the excess oil on your head, or dries up the skin flakes and makes them easier to remove when washing, or just makes you healthier overall. Regardless, 10 – 15 minutes of sunlight daily are recommended, and not just for dandruff.

Hopefully, these tips will help you get rid of dandruff and have a clean and healthy scalp once again.

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