There’s nothing quite as horrifying as leaning over to whisper something to a friend, only to see tiny flecks of dandruff raining down on the table. Yes, you can always head to the supermarket and pick up a bottle of Head & Shoulders. Or, you could take a different route and deal with dandruff, the natural way.
If you want to let Mother Nature speak for herself, here’s six fabulous ways to treat a dry scalp, without resorting to chemicals.
Tea tree oil
As well as having anti-inflammatory, antibacterial and antifungal properties, tea tree oil is a surprisingly good moisturiser. It’s definitely not meant to be slathered all over your face, but adding one drop of tea tree oil to every 30ml of shampoo can significantly improve your dandruff situation.
Loved by housewives (and hubbies) for decades, baking soda is known for getting things squeaky clean. And it turns out, this includes your scalp. Try skipping shampoo, and rubbing a handful of baking soda into your roots. This kills off the overactive fungi that can cause dandruff, and leaves your hair looking silky, soft and flake free.
Apple cider vinegar (with the mother)
Naturopaths swear by apple cider vinegar as a miracle cure for a host of ailments. Thanks to its high acidity, ACV helps your scalp maintain a healthy alkaline pH level. This makes it harder for yeast to grow, and keeps dandruff at bay. Simply mix one part ACV with one part water, and spritz onto your scalp before having a shower. Leave for 15 minutes, then rinse out. Apparently, lemon juice can be just as effective, and you may prefer the scent.
Coveted by beach babes and health nuts alike, coconut oil works miracles on dry skin. Plus, it smells divine. Before showering massage three tablespoons of coconut oil into your scalp, and leave for around 30 minutes. Shampoo as normal, and rub a little into your ends for a luscious leave in treatment.
Fenugreek seeds
More than just an Indian spice staple, fenugreek is known for its antifungal and soothing properties. Treat your locks to a DIY hair mask by soaking two to three tablespoons of fenugreek seeds in water overnight. In the morning grind into a paste, and add a few teaspoons of natural yogurt. Slather over your scalp and leave for an hour. It’s the perfect excuse to catch up on Netflix! Rinse out, lightly shampoo and enjoy a nourished, dandruff free scalp.
Olive oil
Velvety and viscous, olive oil is for so much more than just drizzling over salads. If you really want to pamper your locks and banish dandruff, try massaging around 10 drops of olive oil into your scalp and leave overnight. If you’re worried about your pillows, sleep in a shower cap. Shampoo out in the morning and lap up the compliments on your shiny tresses.
Got a foolproof way to beat dandruff? We’d love you to share!