10 Home Remedies to Get Rid of Dandruff
Do you have a dandruff problem? We have a solution! Ten of them, actually. Use one of these home remedies a few times each week to get rid of dandruff for good.
Lemon Juice for Dandruff
Did you know that dandruff is caused by bacteria clogging up your hair follicles? You can fight this bacteria with a little lemon juice. Squeeze the juice from one lemon and add ½ cup warm water, then pour over your scalp and let sit for five minutes before shampooing as usual. Or, if you like the smell of lemons, mix 1 tablespoon of lemon juice with 1 cup of warm water and use after you’ve conditioned. Pour over your head after you rinse out your conditioner. Let it dry in your hair and it will not only keep dandruff away, it will make you smell wonderful.
Get Rid of Dandruff with Thyme
If your scalp is getting flaky, try treating it with a mixture of 2 tablespoons dried thyme and 1 cup water. Let the water boil, then add the thyme and wait five minutes. Remove from the heat and let cool, then strain out the thyme and pour the water on your hair and scalp after you’ve washed and rinsed it. To let it work, don’t rinse it out for 12 hours—but don’t worry, your hair will dry fine (and smell delicious)!
Make Dandruff Disappear with Mouthwash
You don’t have to buy expensive shampoos to get rid of dandruff. Instead, use something that’s already in your medicine cabinet—mouthwash. After shampooing your hair, pour a solution of half mouthwash, half water over it. Work into your scalp and let sit for five minutes, then rinse out and condition as usual. The mouthwash will cause the bacteria that causes the dandruff.
Apple-Mint Scalp Treatment
Apple cider vinegar can be used to regulate the acid level on your scalp and clear out dry skin flakes. Maximize the benefits by adding fresh mint in this luxurious scalp treatment! Heat ¼ cup of apple cider vinegar with ½ cup of water and a few leaves of fresh mint in the microwave or over low heat on the stove. Let cool, then chill in the fridge overnight. Then use it to cover your scalp—massaging the mixture into your hair—and wait a half hour before you shampoo it out.
The Quickest, Easiest Dandruff Fix
This tried-and-true dandruff remedy may also be the quickest and easiest. Wet your hair, then rub about 2 tablespoons of kosher (or coarse) salt into your scalp before shampooing. The salt works as a mild exfoliant to get rid of dead skin, scales, and flakes.
Aspirin for Dandruff
Aspirin can help reduce dandruff if you crush a couple of tablets and add them to your normal shampoo (shake thoroughly to mix well). Just make sure to let the shampoo sit on your hair for 1–2 minutes before washing it out.
Help a Dandruff Problem with Your Diet
The best way to reduce flakes in your hair may be by changing your diet. Increase your intake of raw foods that are high in enzymes (fruit, vegetables, and nuts). If your dandruff still doesn’t improve, try swallowing two spoonfuls of flax seed oil a day.
Oil and Vinegar Dandruff Treatment
OK, we admit it: This rinse sounds like salad dressing, but it works well on dandruff! Whisk together equal amounts of oil and vinegar, and massage into the scalp for a few minutes. The olive oil helps loosen the dandruff (and moisturize the scalp) and the vinegar removes the flakes. Apple cider vinegar works best.
Tea Tree Oil for Dandruff
Tea tree essential oil is a great all-natural dandruff treatment. Look at a natural foods store for shampoos containing it, or check out this post from xoJane about how to treat your dandruff with tea tree oil directly.
Yogurt for Dandruff
Yogurt is well-known for its digestive-boosting powers, and believe it or not, it can help battle dandruff too. Spread plain yogurt directly on your scalp, leave for 15 minutes, then rinse. The good bacteria that helps your stomach will also send the dandruff packing, and will moisturize your scalp while it’s at it.
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The suggestions offered here are for informational purposes only. The authors and publisher do not accept liability for damages arising from the use, attempted use, misuse or application of any of the suggestions included on this website.
Image by Shutterstock.
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About the Author
Bruce Lubin and Jeanne Bossolina-Lubin are the proud parents of three boys and more than a dozen books. After saving thousands per year using everyday tips and simple lifehacks, they started their own business in the hopes of sharing their knowledge with others. They have been known to go into their friends’ refrigerators to turn their eggs upside down so that they last longer.
