Overview
Dry, white flakes which fall from your scalp, better known as dandruff, develop when your scalp sheds dead skin cells faster than they can be removed. This occurs when a yeast-like fungus, malassezia, grows out of control or when a skin irritation triggers scalp inflammation. As your scalp dries out, the excess dead skin cells produce the appearance of dandruff. Fortunately, you can follow some at-home activities to reduce the likelihood of developing dandruff and to remedy any cases of dandruff you may currently be experiencing.
Step 1
Purchase, or create, a sulfur-based shampoo for your hair. The University of Maryland Medical Center (UMM) suggests that sulfur will reduce the intensity of burning and itching. If you have experience with sulfur, then you can create your own shampoo product. Otherwise, you may need to buy one of the many pre-made options available at the store. Read the ingredient label to be sure your shampoo contains sulfur.
Step 2
Shampoo often and thoroughly. Dandruff sometimes results from built-up oils on the scalp. Shampooing helps to remove these oils. Apply the product, rub it carefully into your scalp, leave it for up to five minutes (depending on the severity of your dandruff), and then rinse it out.
Step 3
Engage in relaxation techniques. Some forms of dandruff are brought about as a result of stress and anxiety. UMM recommends deep breathing exercises, meditation and yoga as ways to reduce any stress that may be lowering your immune response, causing your scalp to inflame. Take time out of your day to relax and reflect on a solitary sound or idea, for example, or do some deep breathing–inhale deeply through your nose, hold your breath and release it slowly from your mouth. As your stress levels decline, your scalp will shed dead skin cells at a more normal, healthy rate.
Step 4
Increase your scalp’s exposure to the sun. Dr. Patricia Farris, a dermatologist at Tulane University School of Medicine, told MotherNature.com that ultraviolet radiation improves dandruff symptoms by reducing scalp inflammation. Even 30 minutes a day of sun exposure may be enough to lower your rate of dandruff.
Step 5
Consume more fish oil. Research reported on the website, IcelandHealth.com, suggests that 1.8 grams of fish oil a day may alleviate the symptoms associated with eczema, an itchy rash skin disorder that may contribute to the presence of dandruff. Including more oily fish–mackerel, salmon, herring and tuna–in your diet will add more fish oil and thus help relieve dandruff.
