What is dandruff?
Dandruff can be an embarrassing a scalp condition where the scalp produces flakes of skin which can be seen as tiny white flakes entangled with hair, especially on the top of the head. This condition is also accompanied with mild itching which sometimes may aggravate the condition.
What causes dandruff?
There are a number of reasons that attribute to dandruff. These are:
- Sensitive scalp
- Not washing hair often
- Bacteria & fungus
- Weather
- Diet & stress
- Hormonal changes
While some reasons can be preventable, such as washing your hair regularly to prevent dandruff, there are also some causes that needs intervention to prevent dandruff.
Best Essential Oils for Preventing Dandruff
To tackle dandruff, here are 3 essential oils you can use in your hair care routine and how it can help with your scalp condition.
1. Rosemary
Rosemary is well known for its regenerative abilities and also recommended for treating itchy scalp and dandruff. It stimulates the follicles, and promises hair development and growth. As an excellent anti-inflammatory agent, Rosemary is also ideal for getting rid of bacteria and fungus which are common causes of dandruff.
2. Tea Tree
An effective antibacterial and antifungal oil, Tea Tree is no stranger to the essential oils market. What's useful is that Tea Tree can be applied directly onto the scalp, although that is not recommended if you have sensitive scalp.
3. Lavender
If you have an itchy scalp, Lavender helps in soothing the itchiness and redness on the scalp. It is also safe to use on sensitive scalps as well as on younger children. Lavender is also a popular choice for a healthy, germ-free scalp and hair.
DIY Dandruff Remedy
What you'll need:
- 20 drops of your choice of essential oil(s)
- 1 teaspoon honey
- 4 ounces olive oil, almond or coconut oil
Directions:
- Blend ingredients well in container.
- Massage into the scalp.
- Leave on for at least 20 minutes.
- For severe conditions, try leaving it on overnight.
- Shampoo well.