When the first greasy or dry dandruff appears, our first instinct is often to go to the local supermarket or pharmacy to purchase an anti-dandruff shampoo. However, although rich in zinc pyrithione, tar, salicylic acid or ketonazole, they do not always succeed in overcoming severe dandruff conditions and associated itching. Unsightly scales therefore remain present in the hair and on clothing despite careful washing. In this case, it can be very effective to resort to natural anti-dandruff remedies, and more particularly essential oils known to be merciless with dandruff. Here is a selection of the most effective.
1) Tea tree essential oil
Tea tree essential oil is known for its antibacterial, antifungal, anti-inflammatory and cleansing properties. It also helps eliminate excess sebum which can encourage the appearance of unsightly scales. In this way, it constitutes a complete treatment to overcome dandruff and regain a healthy scalp.
2) Frankincense essential oil
Frankincense (or frankincense) essential oil is particularly useful in the case of a dry scalp accompanied by dry dandruff. It will indeed help to regulate hydration in the skull. Apply this oil diluted in vegetable oil after washing. Then leave it on for 15 minutes under a shower cap and shampoo again.
3) Geranium essential oil
Bourbon geranium essential oil is soothing and antiseptictwo very valuable qualities for keeping a dandruff problem under control, especially in cases of dry scalp. Geranium will in fact work to maintain a good balance within your hair and protect it, strengthen it and care for it from roots to ends. It is a good ally for fragile hair follicles.
4) Peppermint essential oil
Present in a number of famous hair care products dedicated to the care of the scalp, peppermint essential oil allows it to be deeply cleansed andspace out shampoos a little. Anti-inflammatory and antisepticit will also help calm the itching. Although it does not act directly on dandruff, it helps keep hair fresh, light and pleasant while acting on excess sebum which can encourage the appearance of scales.
5) Rosemary essential oil
In addition to regulating the secretion of sebum in the scalp to rebalance it sustainably, rosemary essential oil tones it and soothes itching. It is also a conditioning oil known to stimulate hair growth (but also reduce hair loss). It also allows you to target dandruff thanks to its purifying, antifungal, astringent and antibacterial properties. In short, it is an excellent treatment for a healthy scalp and eliminated dandruff.
6) Cedar essential oil
Atlas cedar essential oil is very popular for the treatment of psoriasis or eczema. However, we can also take advantage of its anti-inflammatory properties in cases of dandruff. In case of severe dandruff and irritation (redness, itching, etc.), this oil is a real safe bet.
Essential oils against dandruff, some honorable mentions!
Very powerful, aromatherapy offers many options that are generally not limited to a single use. Also, it is difficult to draw up an exhaustive list of anti-dandruff essential oils as there are so many. However, we have mentioned the most effective and known ones. To these can however be added thecade essential oil which purifies and energizes the scalp, and can fight against dandruff orpalmarosa essential oil (anti-dandruff, purifying and astringent). Bergamot, lemongrass, garlic and thyme oil are other effective options.
How to use these essential oils to fight dandruff?
If they are not already present in the list of ingredients of your shampoo, you can add one to two drops to your usual dose washing care. It may also be possible to apply it as a mask diluted in a vegetable oil (coconut oil, jojoba oil, olive oil, avocado oil, etc.). In this case, heat the oil slightly to facilitate its application (optional). Then dilute 2-3 drops of essential oil inside. Apply this mixture to your scalp, massaging gently. Finally add a shower cap and leave on for 30 minutes. Finally, shampoo.
In any case, carefully check the contraindications and test each oil carefully before using it to avoid any allergic risk. If necessary, ask a doctor or pharmacist for their advice before starting to use them.
In addition to essential oils, what advice should you follow when you suffer from dandruff to limit its occurrence?
Certainly, having a good natural remedy is always useful. However, for rapid results that are also long-lasting and without recurrence, combine your treatments with good habits and a healthy lifestyle. Adopting good reflexes can indeed help limit the appearance of dandruff and improve the general health of your scalp.
To limit the occurrence of dandruff, don’t wash your hair too frequently. Excessive washing risks drying out the scalp by eliminating the sebum that protects it. This can then stimulate dandruff production. Once or twice a week is usually enough. Also keep your scalp hydrated by using natural oils like coconut oil or argan oil. This can help prevent dryness and irritation. In parallel, wash your brushes, combs, towels and pillowcases regularly to prevent the accumulation of bacteria and dead cells.
But above all, it is essential to avoid harsh hair products. Products containing sulfates, parabens or certain types of alcohol, for example, can irritate the scalp and worsen dandruff. Therefore, choose gentle products without harsh chemical ingredients. Additionally use lukewarm water rather than hot for washing hair so as not to dry out the scalp and cause irritation. Additionally, scratching can irritate the scalp and worsen dandruff. If your scalp is itchy, try massage gently with your fingers rather than scratching. Finally, hairstyles that are too tight can cause excessive traction on the scalp and irritation. Therefore prefer looser hairstyles.
Other Tips for Scalp Health
A diet rich in vitamins and mineralsparticularly zinc, vitamin B6 and omega-3, can contribute to scalp health. Also avoid excess fatty and sugary foods which can aggravate dandruff. The stress being an aggravating factor For dandruff, practice stress management techniques like meditation, yoga, or breathing exercises. Finally, moderate exposure to the sun can help reduce dandruff. However, protect your scalp from burns by using a hat and/or appropriate sun protection.