Overview
Dandruff can cause your scalp to itch or prove embarrassing because of the unsightly flakes, but it need not be permanent. The average dandruff shampoo contains an array of ingredients, any of which can irritate some skin sensitivities. By comparison, vinegar from fermented food is safe enough to be taken internally, albeit in extremely small quantities. When diluted and applied cautiously, vinegar can provide relief for individuals with dandruff.
The Cause of Dandruff
According to the National Institutes of Health, dandruff stems from an abundance of two naturally occurring substances on the skin: oil and yeast (malassezia, which in effect eats the oil). In excess, the oil clogs the pores and the excess yeast raids the oil, creating irritated skin that increases its regeneration to compensate for the damage. The overly abundant skin cells then flake off, ranging in color from white to yellow, depending on the amount of excess oil.
Dandruff and pH
Ph levels refer to the chemical balance of a substance, from 0 (most acidic) to 14 (most alkaline). According to the National Skin Care Institute, the pH of normal skin ranges from 4 to 6.5. By maintaining this acidic environment, the skin is flexible (not overly dry) and able to prevent the growth of fungus (yeast). However, many cosmetic products are excessively alkaline, which can encourage the yeast to proliferate and also irritate and dry out the skin, leading to flaking.
Vinegar and pH
Although ingredients and processing techniques create varieties in pH levels, all vinegars are acidic. Vinegar helps maintain an acidic environment on the scalp, discouraging the growth of yeast and preventing the clogging of pores. Vinegar can also reduce hair product buildup, which can also impair the skin’s pH balance. Apple cider vinegar is typically recommended for topical applications because it is less acidic than white vinegar, which is used in household cleaning products.
Vinegar Applications
Individuals can rinse with vinegar after shampooing, then rinse the vinegar out or leave it in for a stronger treatment. Apple-cide-benefits.com recommends a mixture of 1 tbl. apple cider vinegar to 1 cup (250ml) of water. Alternatively, pour 1 to 2 tbl. of apple cider vinegar in a cup, then apply to the scalp for 15 minutes to three hours before shampooing, according to health911.com. Avoid hair dryers and let the hair dry naturally if possible to prevent further drying of the scalp. Although the hair will initially smell “pickled,” the fumes will subside once the hair is dry.
Dandruff Red Flags
Sudden dandruff, dandruff with scaly patches or dandruff with changes in motor coordination might be the signs of a larger medical condition and should be referred to a health care provider. According to the Mayo Clinic, dandruff can also occur in response to hot climates, as part of other skin conditions (such as eczema and psoriasis), and as an allergic response to anti-dandruff products.
