A Guide to Treating Dandruff

Dandruff is a condition of the scalp that affects millions of people. Although it is neither contagious, nor a threat to health in any way, it is a serious cosmetic problem which is unsightly and embarrassing in social situations. Through the years, several medications have been developed to combat symptoms of dandruff, however, for many, there are home remedies and alternate methods that work just as well.

Dandruff is a condition of the scalp marked by chronic itching and dead skin peeling from the scalp. This dead skin can be light and minimal in the form of a fine powder or can be composed of larger and more obvious flakes that collect in the hair or fall from the head to rest on your shoulders and clothing. According to the Mayo Clinic at the symptoms of dandruff can be caused by several different factors, including more serious skin conditions such as dry skin, seborrheic dermatosis, psoriasis, cradle cap, and contact dermatitis. Dandruff has recently been attributed to the build up of a yeast-like fungus that lives on the heads of almost all adult people called malassezia that feeds on the oils of the hair causing skin to dry excessively and flake off. What causes the growth of malassezia itself is largely unknown but thought to be a combination of stress, hormones, immune system abnormalities and infrequent washing.

Although a doctor can prescribe medicines and medicated shampoos, which can often be bought over the counter as well, such as zinc pyrthione shampoos like Head & Shoulders, Tar-based shampoo like Neutrogena T/Gel, and selenium sulfide shampoos like Selsun Blue, there are a number of other remedies that are more natural and have been used successfully in many of those who suffer from dandruff.

The first line of defense and treatment for dandruff is in good hygiene. This includes frequent washing with your regular shampoo or one of the medicated shampoos mentioned above. Hair should be brushed several times daily to improve circulation to the follicles and remove any excess flakes. A fingertip massage of the scalp is recommended at least once per day and exposure for limited times to the sun can help treat dandruff also.

One natural remedy for dandruff comes from India and has been used regularly to great effect. It requires a mixture of curded milk, honey, and lemon. Two tablespoons of curd mixed with three drops of honey and the juice of one lemon can be applied to the scalp and massaged in. Let it sit for at least 15 minutes and then shampoo away.

Coconut oil has been used in the U.S. by some who say show immediate results that last up to six months. Coconut oil can be purchased pure from health stores and vitamin shops such as GNC. The oil should be applied to the scalp in saturation and massaged in with the fingertips. For thick hair it can be brushed in as needed. Let sit for 15 minutes and then run under hot water for another 15 minutes.

Another home-based remedy that can be found on Susan Gaer's website uses a mixture of olive oil and lime juice. One tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil can be mixed with one teaspoon of fresh lime juice and applied to the scalp. Massage in well and cover with a scarf to prevent getting the oil on other materials in the home and help keep it on your head. Leave it in the hair overnight and shampoo clean in the morning.

Listerine, while not really a natural remedy has been used to treat dandruff as well. After a regular shampoo, saturate the hair with Listerine and leave in for 10 minutes or if it begin to sting, sooner. Wash out again with shampoo.

Regular aspirin is also said to be an effective means of combating dandruff. Crush 10 aspirin very fine on a plate with a spoon or by any other means you see fit. Combine with a quarter-cup of shampoo and massage into the scalp. Let it sit for 10 minutes and then rinse.

Tea tree oil has been used in Australia and around the world for years as a remedy to scalp and skin problems. Essential oil of tea tree can be bought at health stores and many stores that sell a wide variety of vitamins. It can be bought already mixed into a shampoo, the best of which is Paul Mitchell. The essential oil can also be mixed in to your regular shampoo. Use one teaspoon per application. Let it sit for 15 minutes on the scalp before rinsing.

Dandruff is a very personal condition and what works for one person may not work for another. Use trial and error in finding what helps you and then stick with what works best.