How to Reduce Dandruff At Home?
Discover more about dandruff, including its causes and myths, effective home remedies and practical solutions to reduce it naturally. Explore various home treatments and lifestyle changes to prevent recurrence.
Written by Dr. Sonia Bhatt
Last updated on 5th Jun, 2025
Introduction
Dandruff is a common scalp condition that can cause itchy scalp and flaky skin. It can affect not just the hair but also the eyebrows, beard, moustache, and shoulders. The condition can affect people of all ages. While it is not contagious or harmful, persistent dandruff can be frustrating and impact self-confidence. Managing dandruff at home is possible with natural remedies and lifestyle changes. The blog explores the best ways to reduce dandruff effectively at home with home treatments and preventive measures.
Understanding Dandruff
Dandruff and itchy scalp can occur when the scalp sheds excess skin or becomes irritated. This can lead to flakes and sometimes redness. However, the good news is that there are simple home remedies that can help reduce dandruff and calm an itchy scalp. Natural solutions for treating dandruff at home can help relieve the discomfort and restore scalp health. A study reported that nearly 50% of the global population will experience dandruff at least once.
Common Causes of Dandruff
To effectively treat dandruff, it is essential to first understand the common causes of the condition.
Dry Scalp
One of the most common causes of itching and dandruff can be a dry scalp. When the scalp doesn’t produce enough natural oils to stay hydrated, it becomes flaky, irritated, and dry. The skin may peel, creating small white flakes that resemble dandruff. This issue can worsen, especially during winters, when dry air and indoor heating strip moisture from the scalp.
Skin Conditions
Certain skin conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, and seborrhoeic dermatitis are common causes of dandruff and an itchy scalp. Eczema and psoriasis can result in dry and scaly patches, whereas seborrhoeic dermatitis produces greasy, yellowish scales. These conditions can cause significant discomfort and may require specialised treatments for management.
Product Buildup
If not thoroughly washed out, hair products like shampoos, conditioners, and hairstyling agents can contribute to dandruff and scalp irritation. Product residue can clog hair follicles and cause discomfort. Overuse of hair products can lead to chemical buildup, further annoying the scalp.
Fungal Infections
Fungal infections, particularly those caused by the Malassezia Fungus, can contribute to itchy scalp and dandruff. Though this fungus naturally exists on the scalp, overgrowth can cause flaking, irritation, and inflammation. The imbalance can disrupt the scalp’s oil production, leading to excess shedding of skin cells.
Diet and Lifestyle
Lifestyle factors and diet can also influence scalp health. Deficiencies in essential nutrients like B vitamins, zinc, and omega-3 fatty acids can contribute to dandruff. Poor sleep habits, stress, and dehydration can aggravate scalp issues. Managing stress, staying hydrated, and maintaining a balanced diet are key to supporting overall scalp health.
Symptoms of Dandruff
Dandruff signs and symptoms may include:
Itchy scalp
Skin flakes on the scalp, hair, eyebrows, moustache, beard, and shoulders
Scaly, crusty scalp in infants with cradle cap
White or grey flakes of skin on the scalp and in the hair
Flakes falling from the scalp onto the shoulders
Other symptoms may include redness and inflammation on the scalp.
Consult Top Dermatologist
Misconceptions About Dandruff
Several myths and misconceptions surround dandruff, which can lead to ineffective treatments and confusion. However, understanding the truth can help in managing the condition better.
Myth 1: Dandruff only occurs on dry scalp
Dandruff and dry scalp affect numerous people, but these two are not the same thing. When the scalp loses too much natural moisture, it can get tight and dry. The tiny, white flakes that fall off it are the most distinguishable symptom of dry scalp, also called dandruff. However, it is only a possible cause, not the only culprit for dandruff. The key suspect of the dandruff problem is Malassezia, a pesky yeast-like fungus that can grow on oily areas of the scalp. It produces irritants that thrive on the scalp’s excess oil, making skin cells shed excessively and quickly.
Myth 2: Dandruff is caused by poor hygiene
While maintaining good hygiene is essential for scalp health, dandruff can occur even with regular hair washing. It is often caused by factors like an overgrowth of yeast on the scalp or hormonal changes, not just a lack of cleanliness.
Myth 3: Dandruff is caused by washing hair frequently
Washing hair frequently does not necessarily cause dandruff. However, over-washing hair can sometimes strip natural oils from the scalp, which can sometimes irritate and worsen dandruff.
Remedies to Reduce Dandruff At Home
Several natural ingredients can help control dandruff. These home remedies can help soothe and nourish the scalp.
Aloe Vera
Aloe vera is known for its soothing and moisturising properties. It helps calm irritation, reduce inflammation, and fight dandruff caused by bacterial or fungal infections.
Lemon Juice
Lemon juice is considered a natural exfoliant and antiseptic that removes dead skin cells and fights dandruff-causing bacteria. The acidic nature of lemon balances the scalp’s pH, helping to reduce flakiness and itchiness. Consistent use can help maintain scalp cleanliness and reduce dandruff.
Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar is known for its ability to balance the pH level of the scalp. It helps reduce fungal growth and alleviate flaking and itching. Its natural properties make it a simple yet effective solution for combating dandruff caused by fungal overgrowth.
Tea Tree Oil
This has strong antifungal and antibacterial properties that help address dandruff and soothe an irritated scalp. It works by targeting the root cause of flaking and itching, especially in cases of fungal infections.
Neem Leaves
Neem leaves have antifungal and antibacterial properties that help in reducing dandruff and scalp irritation effectively.
Baking Soda
It helps remove product buildup and dead skin cells from the scalp. It also helps restore the scalp’s pH balance, making it less hospitable to fungal growth.
Olive Oil
Olive oil provides hydration and nourishment to an itchy and dry scalp. It has antioxidants that can help in promoting healthier skin, helping to minimise flakes and discomfort caused by dandruff.
Yoghurt and Honey
Honey helps soothe and hydrate the scalp, whereas yoghurt contains probiotics that support a healthy scalp environment. This combination as a hair mask may help address scalp dryness and reduce dandruff.
Fenugreek Seeds
Fenugreek seeds have moisturising and antifungal properties that can help in controlling dryness and dandruff.
Diet and Lifestyle Changes
Diet and lifestyle habits play a crucial role in managing dandruff.
A Balanced Diet
A nutrient-rich diet can support scalp health and prevent excessive flaking. To reduce dandruff, individuals can include leafy greens, nuts, seeds, fish, and eggs. Zinc, vitamin B, and omega-3 fatty acids can also help promote scalp health.
Stress Management
Apart from maintaining a balanced diet, it is also essential to manage stress. High stress levels can trigger or worsen dandruff by affecting hormone balance. Meditation, sufficient sleep, and exercise can contribute to healthier skin and scalp.
Conclusion
Reducing dandruff involves a combination of home remedies, proper scalp care, a balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle. However, persistent or severe dandruff may require medical treatments, making professional consultation necessary. Management of dandruff requires consistency in treatments and patience for long-term results.
Consult Top Dermatologist
Consult Top Dermatologist
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Dr. Shilpa Nikam
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Dr. Imran Ali
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Consult Top Dermatologist
Dr. K Chetana
Dermatologist
10 Years • MBBS, MD ( Dermatology)
Hyderabad
Apollo 24|7 Virtual Clinic - Telangana, Hyderabad
Dr Ridhima Lakhani
Dermatologist
10 Years • MBBS, MD, DNB
New Delhi
Apollo 24|7 Virtual Clinic - Delhi, New Delhi
Dr. Hemalatha Naidu M
Dermatologist
5 Years • MBBS, MD (Dermatology)
Bangalore
Apollo 24|7 Virtual Clinic - Karnataka, Bangalore
(225+ Patients)
Dr. Shilpa Nikam
Dermatologist
8 Years • MBBS, DDVL, PGDMC
Bengaluru
A1 AESTHETIC Skin and Hair Clinic, Bengaluru
(25+ Patients)
Dr. Imran Ali
Dermatologist
12 Years • MBBS ,MD
Hyderabad
Dermax Skin & Hair Transplant Clinic, Hyderabad
