Dandruff is a very common condition that affects thousands of people across the globe. It is characterized by flaking and itching of the skin on the scalp. Fortunately, it is neither serious nor contagious, but it can be quite an embarrassment. Knowing about the causes of dandruff can help people prevent and control the problem. Some of the most common causes of dandruff include:
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- Lack of adequate hygienic measures: The buildup of dandruff is usually the result of not washing the hair often enough.
- Allergic reactions: Several commercial hair care products contain harsh chemicals, which could have an adverse effect on the scalp. The irritation caused by the use of these products would be one of the major causes of dandruff.
- Oily skin: Seborrhea dermatitis is a common skin condition, which leads to greasy red skin, covered with yellow or flaky white scales.
- Dry skin: One of the main causes of dandruff is dry skin that occurs during extreme climates, especially in the cold weather. Small flakes that can be seen on the hair are usually the result of dry skin on the scalp.
- Skin problems: Disorders related to the skin like psoriasis and eczema could also affect the skin on the scalp, leading to irritation, itchiness and flakiness.
- Fungus: The Malassezia fungus lives off the scalps of most people, without any problems, unless it grows out of control. This skin fungus can cause extra cells to grow on the scalp skin. The dead skin cells then fall out, giving the hair an appearance of dandruff.
- Unhealthy diet: Lack of proper nutrition and an excess of oil foods could also lead to unhealthy skin on the scalp, causing dandruff.
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Natural Remedies For Dandruff
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There are several soaps, shampoos and other commercial products that could help control this problem. However, most people prefer opting for natural remedies for dandruff or even herbal remedies for dandruff, as they are just as effective, are easier on the skin and have fewer side effects. Some of the most commonly used natural remedies for dandruff include:
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- Essential oils: Dandruff herbal remedies mainly include the use of several varieties of essential oils, like Lavender, Eucalyptus, Rosemary, Cypress, Clary Sage, Tea Tree, Thyme, Basil and Birch, to name a few. However, essential oils need to be diluted before being applied on the scalp or else they could worsen skin problems.
- Yogurt: Apply some fermented curd on the hair and allow it to stay, for an hour, before rinsing it off.
- Vinegar: 2 tablespoons of cosmetic vinegar should be added to 6 tablespoons of hot water and then applied on the scalp. This solution then needs to be left on overnight, while the head is covered with a cloth. The next morning, the scalp can be washed off with warm water.
- Mix some ginger root in olive oil and apply it on the head. This removes the dandruff and nourishes the hair.
- Aloe Vera gel should be applied on the head and left on, preferably overnight. The next morning, it can be washed off with a mild shampoo.
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