5 Remedies for Dandruff and Flakes
Dandruff is a skin condition that causes itchy, flaky skin, mainly on the scalp. It can be caused due to a number of factors. However, if it is not a result of an underlying health issue, you can get relief from its symptoms by following a few simple remedies. Listed below are a few natural remedies for dandruff that you can try.
1. Massage your scalp with coconut oil
One of the well-known natural remedies for dandruff is to massage the scalp with coconut oil. This oil has been shown to boost skin hydration and prevent dandruff. In various research studies, coconut oil has been shown to reduce the occurrence of dandruff caused due to various health conditions such as eczema. Massage your scalp with coconut oil 15 minutes before you wash your hair.
2. Increase your intake of omega-3 fatty acids
This nutrient found in fatty fish such as salmon, mackerel, and trout is essential for good skin health. It helps to manage the secretion of natural skin oils and hydrates the skin to prevent premature aging. Hence, as one of the natural remedies for dandruff, including foods that are rich in omega-3 fatty acids in your diet could help to prevent dry skin and hair. In addition to fish, other sources of this nutrient are chia seeds, walnuts, and flaxseed. You can also take fish oil supplements that are easily available.
3. Use essential oils
Using certain essential oils such as tea tree oil can also be beneficial for reducing the occurrence of dandruff. This oil has anti-microbial and anti-inflammatory properties that can prevent the itchy scaly flakes of dandruff from occurring. It has been known to be very effective in fighting the fungus that causes dandruff. You can add a few drops of this oil to your shampoo as one of the natural remedies for dandruff.
4. Manage your stress levels
Stress is a cause of many health conditions, and it can also have an effect on skin and hair, resulting in itching and dryness. Stress can also affect the immune system’s ability to effectively fight fungal infections that lead to dandruff. Hence, managing stress levels is also listed among the natural remedies for dandruff. You can practice exercise forms such as yoga or tai chi, to help you relax. Meditation is also useful in helping to manage stress. Taking up a hobby can help to divert the mind and reduce stress levels.
5. Consume more probiotics
A type of bacteria, probiotics are good for the health of your gut. It can also boost the functioning of the immune system to fight off and prevent fungal infections such as those that result in dandruff. This beneficial bacteria is found in yogurt, fermented foods such as kimchi, sauerkraut, and kombucha or in the form of supplements.
You can follow these hassle-free natural remedies for dandruff to get rid of those pesky, itchy flakes and to boost the health of your skin and hair.