How to get rid of dandruff fast according to hair experts
If you've ever wondered how to get rid of dandruff you're in good company.
Many of us know the all-too-real fear that comes with wearing black tops or starting to scratch your scalp and wondering if you'll ever be able to stop again.
It's a skin condition that affects more people than you'd think, and even though we see countless anti-dandruff ads on television, there are other ways to treat it too.
Dandruff is easily treatable according to hair experts (Pexels)
How to get rid of dandruff
If you've been experiencing an itchy scalp and flakiness, it's likely that you're suffering from dandruff.
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But don't fret, this is a very common condition. In fact, it's estimated that 50% of people will experience dandruff at some point in their lives.
Read ahead for some advice on how to get rid of dandruff – from home-remedies to helpful lifestyle changes.
1. Regular gym sessions can help
Getting sweaty and upping your heart rate will help increase blood circulation around the body, which is proven to reduce dandruff by helping to develop healthier skin and hair in general.
The condition can leave your scalp irritated and feeling itchy (Credit: Pexels)
2. Scratching only makes it worse
Even if your scalp feels unbearably itchy, scratching at your dandruff will only cause it to come loose and fall out more, and in even bigger chunks. Go for a sensitive skin shampoo instead, and resist the itch.
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3. Test out different types of shampoos
Not all products work the same for everyone, even if they all boast anti-dandruff benefits. You should see results in a week or two if it's working properly, but give it a whole skin-renewal cycle (28 days) to be sure.
Experts suggest using tea tree oil to get rid of dandruff (Credit: Pexels)
4. Tea tree oil can help get rid of dandruff
Tea tree oil is an easily accessible ingredient, which is proven to have anti-microbial and anti-inflammatory properties.
Indeed, one review cited that tea tree oil is effective at fighting the specific strain of fungus that is known to cause dandruff, as well as seborrheic dermatitis.
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However, you should note that tea tree oil can cause irritation in those with sensitive skin.
Dandruff can affect all hair types (Credit: Pexels)
5. Minimise your stress levels
As we're all aware, stress can exacerbate and even cause a slew of health conditions.
But while stress can't directly cause dandruff, it can aggravate its symptoms, and you may notice more scratching and itchiness.
Stress can aggravate the symptoms of dandruff (Credit: Pexels)
6. Apple cider vinegar can help ease the symptoms of dandruff
Apple cider vinegar has long been used as a natural remedy to combat dandruff, as it's believed to speed up the shedding of dead skin cells that can accumulate on the scalp.
To reap the potential benefits, simply add several tablespoons to your shampoo.
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7. Use coconut oil
Coconut oil is known for its moisturising properties, and can be helpful when dealing with a dry scalp.
A study of 34 people found that coconut oil was just as effective as mineral oil in improving the hydration of skin.
Coconut oil has also been found to have antimicrobial properties. However, its link with dandruff has not been fully explored by scientists.
Coconut is a great solution (Credit: Pixabay)
8. Baking soda is not just a kitchen staple
As well as being easily accessible, baking soda is a quick way to help ease the symptoms of dandruff.
Baking soda is often used as a gentle exfoliant to remove dead skin cells - and you guessed it - this also helps ease itchiness and scaling.
Itchiness can be treated with baking soda (Credit: Pexels)
9. Eat more Omega-3s
Omega-3 is a fatty acid, which is very important when it comes to skin's health.
Per PubMed Central, a deficiency in fatty acids can lead to dry hair, dry skin, and even dandruff on account of a dry scalp.
READ MORE: How to use dry shampoo – 7 dos and don'ts
If you want to up your intake of Omega-3, eat more fatty fish, such as mackerel, salmon and trout.
If you're not keen on fish, there are alternatives, such as fish oil supplements, and other omega-3 rich foods, including nuts, flaxseed, and chiaseeds.
Diet can have a big impact on hair (Credit: Pexels)
10. You should use anti-dandruff shampoo even when you don't have any flakes as a preventative measure
If you read a forecast for a major shift in the weather or you're going through a particularly stressful time, it's a good idea to pre-emptively switch your regular shampoo for the anti-dandruff stuff.
Speciality shampoos are great for treating dandruff (Credit: Pexels)
11. But remember, it can't be cured completely
Sorry, there isn't actually a way to get rid of it "for good". But chances are that once you treat your dandruff with speciality shampoos (think Head & Shoulders) it'll clear up for a while.
Just remember that it's seasonal and that your lifestyle can easily trigger it – keeping track of these things means it'll be easier fend off.
12. Consult a healthcare professional
But, if you've tried several natural remedies and anti-dandruff products, and are still not seeing results, you should consult your doctor for a professional diagnosis.