Overview
Dandruff is a common enough condition, but it can sometimes be stubborn to resolve. That dry, itchy scalp that leaves flakes on your shoulders can be treated in a number of ways. If you want to try a more natural method than medicated shampoos, or if you are just in need of a new way to deal with dandruff, you may want to try one of these oil treatments.
Olive Oil
Olive oil has many benefits, not only for your general health, but for your scalp and hair as well. This monounsaturated oil has ancient beginnings and has long been used to treat dandruff successfully.
Dr. R. Jeffrey Herten in “Prevention Magazine” recommends taking a few ounces of olive oil, warming it, and massage it into your scalp using a cotton ball or your fingers. You may need to wet and part your hair to make the application easier. Leave in for 30 to 60 minutes before you shampoo.
Almond Oil
Almond oil is a light nut oil and is another favorite used for flaky dandruff problems. According to “Old Home Remedies,” it is most often mixed with olive oil in equal parts and applied to the scalp, using your fingertips to massage it in.
An oil rich in vitamins E, P and B, almond oil contains both monounsaturated and linoleic fatty acids. Leave it on for approximately 30 minutes, and then shampoo.
Tea Tree Oil
Tea tree oil is an essential oil from the leaves of the melaleuca tree, which has antibacterial, antifungal, and antiseptic properties. Because it is an essential oil, it should be mixed with a carrier oil such as olive oil or jojoba oil.
According to “Surviving Hair Loss”, using it full strength can cause irritation and is not recommended. Mix 20 drops of tea tree oil with 60 ml of the carrier oil (that’s about 1/4 cup) , shake and then pour 1 tsp. on a saucer. Using your fingertips, massage the oil into your scalp for 2 to 3 minutes. Wait one hour to wash your hair.
Rosemary Oil
Rosemary oil is another essential oil that has properties to combat dandruff and improve your scalp. “Natural Home Remedies” recommends that you mix the essential oil in the ratio of 1 ml of essential oil to 10 ml of carrier oil.
It also recommends that you wash your hair first, let it dry, then use your fingers to massage this mixture into your scalp. Wrap your hair up in a hot, wet towel, let it sit until cool, and repeat if desired. Shampoo afterward.
Other Oils to Try
Essential oils include chamomile, myrrh, basil, cedarwood, neem, lemon and peppermint. You may substitute any of these for the rosemary oil or the tea tree oil, and follow the same directions, always using a carrier oil.
Carrier oils include hazelnut, sesame and hemp seed.
Warning
Essential oils are full strength and must be mixed with a carrier oil.
Olive oil treatments can be used alone.
Remember you are treating your scalp, not your hair.
Don’t use anything to which you are allergic.
Treatments can be repeated as needed, but discontinue if irritation results.
