What causes dandruff to appear? How can you deal with this unpleasant phenomenon? The good news is that there are some natural and extremely simple ways that anyone can do at home. Here is the full list
Dandruff is actually dead skin cells on the scalp. In a more severe condition, greasy patches can appear on the scalp and lead to itching as well. Why is this happening? Among the causes of the appearance of dandruff – a tendency to dry skin, seborrheic dermatitis, sensitivity to hair care products, and sometimes even a skin fungus called malaise that settles around the sebaceous glands in the scalp and causes skin inflammation and multiple dandruff. However, the good news is that treating dandruff is relatively easy.
Here are some natural and easy ways to get rid of dandruff:
Add three drops of tea tree oil to the shampoo
It is an essential oil with powerful anti-fungal, anti-viral and anti-inflammatory properties. In various studies it was found that tea tree oil was effective in the treatment of the Malassezia fungus, and in one of the studies it was even found that the treatment of dandruff with the help of tea tree oil was more effective compared to antifungal treatment given by a doctor’s prescription.
Massage the scalp with coconut oil
Coconut oil is known for its health properties for the skin. It is anti-bacterial, anti-fungal, and is used quite a bit in cosmetic products designed to improve the appearance of the skin and nourish dry skin with moisture.
how to make? Massage the scalp with an amount of 3 tablespoons of coconut oil, wait about two hours and rinse with lukewarm water. The oil does not remove the scales, but it adds moisture and eases the dryness, and many times this is what you will need, depending on the severity of the situation. With regular use, it may also prevent the appearance of dandruff. It is advisable to repeat the treatment twice a week.
Apply olive oil to the hair
Olive oil is rich in antioxidants, it is anti-inflammatory and improves moisture, so it may ease the appearance of dandruff. All you have to do is apply 2-3 tablespoons of olive oil on the scalp, massage well and wrap in a plastic shower cap. Leave it on your head overnight and in the morning wash your hair as usual. It is advisable to repeat the operation twice a month.
Neutralize with baking soda
Baking soda is a quick, cheap and readily available “cure” for treating dandruff. Baking soda has anti-fungal properties and acts as a gentle exfoliant to remove dead cells, reduces itching and is effective in the treatment of dandruff.
how to make? Moisten the hair, mix a teaspoon of baking soda with a little shampoo, apply to the wet hair and massage the scalp well. Wait about 2 minutes and then wash your hair as usual.
Avoid consuming processed foods
Try to reduce consumption of white bread, pasta, cakes, sweets, processed foods, fried foods and sugary drinks. These foods are known to aggravate inflammation and encourage the growth of fungi.
Increase the daily menu with Omega 3
This fatty acid is known for its contribution to the health of the heart, brain, immune system and also to the health of the skin. A lack of omega 3 can lead to dry skin and hair, and hence – to the appearance of dandruff. Try to eat salmon, trout and mackerel, flax seeds, chia seeds and walnuts at least once a week. You can also increase your intake by taking an omega-3 supplement.
Probiotic foods
The good bacteria found in our digestive system play a vital role in immune system activity, and they also help the body fight fungal infections that cause dandruff. For example, in one of the studies it was found that taking probiotics for 56 days significantly reduced the severity of dandruff in the participants.
how? Supplement your menu with good sources of probiotics – fermented foods, such as yogurt, sauerkraut, kimchi, or take probiotic capsules.
Stick to a balanced and healthy menu
In addition to treating dandruff, you should incorporate the following foods into your daily menu for skin and hair health:
Eggs: are an excellent source of protein and biotin which are essential for skin and hair health.
Berries: contain strong antioxidants and are rich in vitamin C, which help in collagen production and iron absorption, which are important for skin and hair health.
Spinach: contains folic acid, iron and vitamins A, C. Vitamin A helps the skin glands produce milk (an oily substance) that keeps the scalp moist.
Sweet potatoes: a great source of beta carotene that the body converts to vitamin A. One medium sweet potato contains beta carotene equal to the recommended daily allowance of vitamin A.
Avocado and nuts: they are an excellent source of vitamin E, an antioxidant that neutralizes free radicals and protects the scalp.
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