How To Get Rid Of Dandruff

The most embarrassing that could happen when you are dressed up for interview or a formal dinner, is an all consuming need to scratch an itchy scalp and also know that a cascade of white flakes would follow, onto a jet black blazer-laid bare for all to see. Dandruff is a medical problem that has managed to unite over half the adult population across the world-beyond gender, age and race.

What causes dandruff?

This scalp condition is caused by a fungus, Malassezia, which feeds on sebum ( The oily matter that is secreted by sebaceous glands on our scalp) and the dead skin cells which occur naturally due to formation of new skin. Although this microbe is normal part of scalp, this is when it turn problematic-the fungus feed on sebum, breaking it down into fatty acids that may irritate the sensitive scalp of many. This is also reason for dryness and itchiness on the scalp, leading to dead skin cells accumulating into visible flakes. The level of sensitivity of people to these fatty acids determine whether they develop acute or mild dandruff. Malassezia thrive in moist environments and thus, became a nuisance during summers and monsoon due to excessive sweating and humidity. However, the cold wind during winters robs the scalp of moisture and leads to dryness that causes itching an flakes. 

Following are some effective ways to get rid of dandruff within few days. 

• Garlic

Garlic's antimicrobial properties are perfect for eliminating dandruff-causing bacteria. Crush garlic and rub it into your scalp. To avoid that potent smell, use crushed garlic with honey and massaging into the scalp before washing as usual.

• Olive oil

An overnight olive oil soak is a folk remedy for dandruff. Massage about 10 drops into your scalp and cover with a shower cap overnight. Follow your regular shampoo routine in the morning. For a quicker cure, look for a shampoo that contains olive oil.

• Salt

The abrasiveness of ordinary table salt works great for scrubbing dandruff flakes before you shampoo. Grab a saltshaker and shake some salt onto your dry scalp. Than work it through your hair, giving your scalp a massage. You'll find you've worked out the dry, flaky skin and are ready for a shampoo. 

• Lemon

Dandruff relief may be no further away than your refrigerator. Just massage 2 tablespoons lemon juice into your scalp and rinse with water. Than stir 1 teaspoon lemon juice into 1 cup water and rinse your hair with it. Repeat this daily until your dandruff disappears. Lemon's acidity helps balance pH of your scalp, which helps keep dandruff at bay.

• Egg

Egg packs aid hair growth and and dandruff removal and are a great hair conditioner. Beat two eggs into a bowl and gently apply it on your scalp. Leave this on for an hour, and wash it off. You'll be surprised to see a remarkable reduction in the flakes on your head in just 3-4 applications. The egg pack also nourishes dry hair and makes it shiny and strong. 

• Hot Oil Massage

There is not a soul on this earth who would refuse a hot oil massage. A hot oil massage has a profound benefits and also very rejuvenation. Now if you have dandruff and are on the look out for a quick way to get rid of it, you should try the hot oil treatment. Take either mustard or almond oil, you may choose castor oil if you can bear the odour it emits.