Natural Cures for Dandruff

Although dandruff is usually not a serious problem, its emotional effects can be severe. Dandruff sufferers may find themselves feeling self-conscious and embarrassed. Particularly upsetting is when dandruff becomes severe enough to cause visible flakes on dark clothing--this can destroy a person's confidence during a meeting or a date. Dandruff is caused by the overgrowth of the yeast-like fungus malassezia. Although it is found on healthy scalps in moderate amounts, its overgrowth has been linked to vitamin deficiencies, dry skin, oily skin, stress, and allergic reactions. There are many natural treatment options available for dandruff and its underlying causes, and these treatments can be used individually or together.

Tea Tree Oil

Because it has been used for centuries as an anti-fungal agent, tea tree oil has often been implicated in the treatment of dandruff. Tea tree oil can effectively kill the fungus that often causes dandruff, without any known side effects or contraindications. Shampoos containing tea tree oil are available at most health care stores, but applying it directly to the scalp is a slightly less expensive alternative. Do not take tea tree oil internally.

Vitamin E

A powerful antioxidant used to treat many common skin ailments, vitamin E is an effective treatment for dandruff, especially when it is caused by eczema and related skin disorders. Dandruff caused by dry skin can be treated using vitamin E, because it can help to restore the moisture in the epidermis, the top layer of the skin. This banishes the dandruff-causing fungus, which often thrives in unhealthy skin. Vitamin E can be applied topically, either directly or in a vitamin-enhanced shampoo. It is also effective when taken internally.

Biotin

Biotin, a B-vitamin, is linked to hair and scalp health. Nutritionists believe that poor hair-and-scalp health may be linked to biotin deficiency, which ultimately leads to the overgrowth of malassezia. This is especially common when biotin deficiency results from the overuse of antibiotics. Biotin must be taken internally to be effective. It can be found as a supplement, but it is also available in many foods, including eggs, soy, and barley.

Yogurt

Live yogurt contains acidophilus, an active form of friendly bacteria. Acidophilus is often used to treat fungal infections, including yeast, thrush, and athlete's foot. Because of its tendency to destroy unfriendly fungi by colonizing our bodies with healthy bacteria, it is an ideal treatment for dandruff. Simply massage a liberal amount of unsweetened, whole-milk yogurt into your scalp and hair, and rinse it out after a few minutes. This can be repeated as often as necessary. Yogurt can also simply be eaten, which may help to restore your body's balance of acidophilus and prevent future dandruff outbreaks.

Fish Oil

Loaded with healthy omega-3 fats, fish oil has long been suspected to help with skin problems, including eczema and psoriasis. I have used it for several years to treat my eczema and have had great success. Since dandruff often thrives on scalps that are also afflicted with eczema and related conditions, fish oil may be a successful treatment option. Do not apply fish oil directly to your scalp, or your hair will become very greasy (and smelly). Instead, take it internally as a supplement until your condition improves.

Apple Cider Vinegar

The acidity of apple cider vinegar can help to kill malassezia, which is why it has become a very common folk remedy for dandruff. To treat dandruff using this method, simply mix a one-to-one ratio of water and vinegar, and use a spray bottle to cover your hair and scalp with the mixture. Allow it to set in place for about half an hour, and then rinse it out. This treatment can be used one to three times per week until the condition improves.

Colloidal Oatmeal

Colloidal oatmeal is often used to treat skin irritations caused by dry skin and skin allergies. Dandruff outbreaks that have been triggered by allergies to shampoos or styling products may be treated using colloidal oatmeal. Widely available at many pharmacies and health food stores, oatmeal provides a protective layer on the skin, which soothes itching and enables healing. Simply mix colloidal oatmeal with warm or tepid water, and gentle massage it into the scalp.