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Dandruff is an embarrassing and unpleasant condition that most people will experience at least once. While the shedding of skin cells from the scalp is normal and usually not noticeable, excessive shedding causes itching and unsightly white flakes that can be seen on dark-colored clothing, according to Duke University. Try natural treatments, but be patient since many remedies require several applications before an improvement is seen.
Baking Soda
Wet your hair, or shampoo as usual. Pour a generous amount of baking soda into the palm of your hand, then work the soda into your wet hair. Rinse with warm water. Baking soda will relieve itchy scalp associated with dandruff.
Tea Tree Oil
Add several drops of tea tree essential oil to your regular shampoo. Tea tree oil can also be added to conditioner. Tea tree oil provides a natural alternative to antibacterial and antifungal shampoos, according to the International Aromatherapy and Herb Association. Use caution when using tea tree oil in this manner.
Apple Cider Vinegar
Rinse your hair with a mixture of 3 cups warm water and 1 cup apple cider vinegar, recommends the Campus Barber at Duke University. Vinegar will restore the proper pH balance to your scalp. Alternatively, Pioneer Thinking advises a scalp massage using a mixture of 6 tsp. warm water and 2 tsp. vinegar. Allow the mixture to remain for 30 minutes, then shampoo as usual.
Aspirin
Crush two regular aspirin tablets. Squeeze your regular shampoo into the palm of your hand, then add the aspirin powder and mix it into the shampoo with your finger. Wash your hair, then allow the mixture to remain in your hair for two minutes. Rinse thoroughly to remove the aspirin powder.
Fenugreek Seeds
Soak a small handful of fenugreek seeds in a bowl of warm water overnight. Massage the fenugreek paste into your hair and scalp, then allow the mixture to remain for 15 to 20 minutes. Rinse the paste from your hair, then shampoo and condition as usual. Use caution when applying this alternative treatment.
Aloe Vera Gel
Work pure aloe vera gel into your scalp and hair 15 to 20 minutes before you shampoo your hair, then wash your hair with your regular shampoo. Regular use of aloe vera gel can help keep dandruff in check.
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