36 Best Home Remedies For Dandruff In Kids, Adults, & Pregnant Women

Overview

Dandruff is a chronic, harmless condition, which generally affects the scalp. It affects all people on the global, regardless of their gender or age. However, it’s more common in teens, children, and young adults. Following a proper hair care routine will help control the problem of dandruff. Besides, you can also use the natural home remedies for treating the trouble. In this article, we, Beauty Talk, bring to all the readers a full list of the best natural home remedies for dandruff in adults, kids, and women during pregnancy. But, before knowing these home remedies, let us look at the causes and symptoms of dandruff.

• Easy tips & tricks to remove dandruff naturally & permanently
• The best ways to use baking soda for dandruff treatment

36 Home Remedies For Dandruff In Kids, Adults, & Women During Pregnancy

I. Causes Of Dandruff

Dandruff happens when the skin on the scalp becomes excessively greasy or dry. The common causes of dandruff include dry skin, seborrheic dermatitis, skin disorders like psoriasis and eczema, inadequate hygiene, yeast infections, and contact dermatitis. Besides, dandruff could sometimes happen because of factors including excessive stress, hormonal imbalances, low immunity, lack of proper nutrition, and neurological disorders.

II. Symptoms Of Dandruff

Below are the common symptoms of dandruff:

• Flaky skin that ranges from white and small to large, yellow and greasy.
• Itchy flaking that appears on the eyebrows or scalp, in the center of the back or chest, or around the hairline, nose or ears.

III. Best Home Remedies For Dandruff In Adults, Kids, And Pregnant Women

A. Home Remedies For Dandruff In Adults

1. Honey & Coconut Oil Scalp Scrub

Coconut oil is rich in fatty acids and vitamins which nourish the scalp and eliminate the build-up. It additionally contains antimicrobial properties and penetrative and nourishing nature, which help to eliminate dandruff and preserve the natural proteins of the hair. Honey in this remedy exhibits antimicrobial properties, which are helpful for treating the problem of dandruff. A study shows that topically applying raw honey is useful in managing seborrheic dermatitis and dandruff ^[1].

You need to prepare:

• Coconut oil – two teaspoons
• Olive oil – two teaspoons
• Honey – two teaspoons
• Yogurt – three tablespoons

Directions:

Mix all the above components in a bowl to attain a paste. Begin applying this paste to the scalp and lightly massage it. Continue massaging for around ten minutes and after that, rinse the applied areas after 30-45 minutes using shampoo. Pat your hair by using a soft towel. Finally, apply several drops of coconut oil to the scalp and hair. Follow this remedy in the morning before taking a bath.

2. Home Remedies For Dandruff – Olive Oil

Olive oil is loaded with antifungal and antibacterial activities, which work wonders in fighting and removing dandruff completely. This oil not only moisturizes a dry scalp but also soothes flaking. Besides, it also nourishes the hair and leaves it feeling soft and silky due to its mono-unsaturated fats. Regular use of olive oil helps to enhance hair and scalp health.

Method 1:

You need to prepare:

• Olive oil – two tablespoons
• One clean towel

Directions:

Take the olive oil and heat to make it warm. Use your fingertips to massage this warm olive oil to your scalp. Immerse the towel in warm water afterward and squeeze it out to eliminate the excess water. Wrap this towel around the head for around thirty minutes. Finally, wash your hair by using your regular shampoo. Try following this remedy thrice per week.

Method 2:

You need to prepare:

• Lemon juice – one teaspoon
• Olive oil – two tablespoons

Directions:

Combine the lemon juice and olive oil in one bowl and massage it into the scalp. Once the scalp and hair are covered, continue to massage for around fifteen minutes. Keep your application on for an additional 25 minutes. Afterward, use a mild shampoo to wash your hair and finish with conditioner. Repeat this remedy twice per week.

3. Home Remedies For Dandruff – Use Baking Soda

Baking soda works as a fungicide, which protects the scalp from dandruff attack. Baking soda can rid the scalp of the dirt, dead skin cells and other impurities owing to its gritty nature and natural cleansing.  It is also beneficial for clearing the excessive oil or sebum from the scalp because of its absorbing property. Furthermore, baking soda helps to control the symptoms such as irritation and flaking because it holds pH balancing and natural cleansing properties.

Method 1:

You need to prepare:

• Baking soda – one tablespoon
• Water – one cup

Directions:

Take the baking soda in one bowl and add the lukewarm water to it. Then, stir well to create a uniform solution and after that, apply it on your scalp with the support of a hairbrush. Rinse your hair after 15-20 minutes by using a mild shampoo. For quick results, use this cure once a week.

Method 2:

You need to prepare:

• Baking soda
• Fresh lemon juice

Directions:

Combine the fresh lemon juice and baking soda in enough amounts. Then, apply the combination to your scalp thoroughly. Massage for two minutes in circular motions and let the application remain on for five more minutes. Lastly, use cool water to rinse the hair and towel dry. Reapply twice in a week for quick relief.

4. Home Remedies For Dandruff – Ginger

Due to its natural antiseptic, ginger can kill the fungi causing dandruff.  It further nourishes the scalp and prevents thinning and dryness of the hair, as it is rich in potassium, amino acids, magnesium, fatty acids, and calcium ^[2]. Other than that, ginger can prevent the growth of yeast, which helps stop itchiness, flakes, and dandruff before they occur.

Method 1:

You need to prepare:

• Ginger oil – one part
• Olive oil – two parts

Directions:

Mix the ginger oil and olive oil. Massage this combination into your overall scalp with fingertips. Leave on overnight and in the morning, rinse with water. You should repeat this method frequently to eliminate dandruff.

Method 2:

You need to prepare:

• Ginger juice – one tablespoon
• Warm coconut oil – one teaspoon
• Olive oil – one teaspoon

Directions:

Mix all the elements well and massage it gently into the hair along with scalp. Wash after 40 minutes with a mild shampoo. Try this treatment twice every week.

5. Home Remedies For Dandruff – Vinegar

The vinegar is high in the acid content that reduces the itchiness of your scalp and reduces the flaking gradually. It further flushes out the dead skin cells of the scalp which leads to dandruff. The acetic acid present in the vinegar is effective in killing the fungus and bacteria on the scalp ^[3]. Apart from that, it is full of enzymes and potassium, all of which are perfect for curing dandruff and itchy scalp successfully.

Method 1:

You need to prepare:

• Vinegar – one cup

Directions:

Take the vinegar and use a cotton ball to apply it onto the scalp. You massage your scalp for several minutes and wrap one warm towel over the hair. Let your application for around 60 minutes and finally, wash off using warm water. After applying vinegar, don’t use shampoo. Follow the process two times per week for a minimum of one month.

Method 2:

You need to prepare:

• A whole banana
• Vinegar – two cups

Directions:

Firstly, peel the banana and later add it to the vinegar. Stir well and make a fine paste. Start applying this paste to the hair. Massage lightly for 5 to 10 minutes. Allow it to stay for around 20 – 60 minutes and rinse your hair entirely. Follow this process daily for around one week.

6. Home Remedies For Dandruff – Apple Cider Vinegar

Apple cider vinegar is ideal for destroying the fungus responsible for dandruff along with other scalp infections. Plus, it possesses anti-inflammatory properties that calm the irritation and swelling caused due to dandruff. It also helps to decrease flaking and itchiness of the scalp since it functions as a mild conditioner.  Moreover, it helps to add volume and shine to the hair.

Method 1:

Get these:

• A little amount of apple cider vinegar

Directions:

Apply the ACV onto the scalp. Gently massage it for three minutes in circular motions and wrap the head with a warm towel to allow the ACV to penetrate into the scalp. After around 60 minutes, rinse it off using water. Follow the process twice every week for one month.

Method 2:

Get these:

• Apple cider vinegar – one cup
• Peppermint leaves – 5
• Hot water – one cup

Directions:

Add the peppermint leaves and ACV into the hot water. Leave it to steep for around two hours. Then, strain and pour this solution into one spray bottle. Start spritzing on the scalp thoroughly. It is advisable to repeat the application every day.

7. Home Remedies For Dandruff – Aloe Vera

Aloe vera composes a natural antifungal agent that removes yeast and fungus on the scalp causing dandruff. Besides, it also possesses an anti-inflammatory compound named glycoproteins, which can lower the inflammation and relieve itching sensation ^[4]. Last but not least, it contains cleansing enzymes, which battles dandruff and dead skin cell flakes.

Method 1:

Get these:

• An aloe vera leaf

Directions:

Firstly, extract the aloe vera gel by squeezing its leaf. Apply the gel on the hair and scalp and gently massage it. Afterward, wrap one warm, damp towel on the head and after a couple of minutes, wash with water and mild shampoo. For best results, repeat it thrice a week.

Method 2:

Get these:

• Aloe vera gel – two teaspoons
• Neem oil – ten drops

Directions:

Mix well the neem oil and aloe vera gel. Then, apply this mixture all over the scalp and massage gently. Keep your application on overnight and the next morning, rinse using mild shampoo and water. Follow it twice a week.

8. Home Remedies For Dandruff – Tea Tree Oil

Tea tree oil contains terpinen-4-ol that contains powerful antifungal and antibacterial effects that can help destroy the fungus responsible for dandruff and scalp infection. According to a 2002 study, 5% tea tree oil is effective in treating dandruff ^[5]. Along with that, the oil also owns the cleansing agents that are ideal for removing sebum, dirt, product deposits and dead skin cells from the scalp that can result in dandruff and scalp irritation. Moreover, due to its natural anti-inflammatory and antiseptic abilities, this oil boosts the healing process and controls dandruff from developing.

Method 1:

Get these:

• Tea tree oil – ten drops
• Water – one cup

Directions:

Add the tea tree oil to the water. Thoroughly shampoo the hair and dry with the aid of a towel. Pour the solution all over the damp scalp afterward and massage by using your fingers. Rinse your hair after thirty minutes with water. Repeat this procedure every other day for several weeks.

Method 2:

Get these:

• Lavender essential oil – few drops
• Tea tree oil – several drops
• Carrier oil

Directions:

Add the tea tree oil and lavender oil to any carrier oil of your choice. Mix these oils thoroughly and apply this oil mixture over your hair and scalp. Massage gently for 5-6 minutes and wait for another thirty minutes. Lastly, rinse your hair carefully with water and a mild shampoo. To obtain the desired results, follow the process two to three times in a week.

9. Home Remedies For Dandruff – Lemon

Lemon works well in combating dandruff causing fungus owing to its antifungal properties. It additionally battles dandruff since it is abundant in citric acid and vitamin C. Besides, it exhibits the healing property that can soothe irritation and decrease itching. Not only that, it can promote healthy hair and scalp because of its essential antioxidants and vitamins.

Method 1:

Get these:

• Lemon juice – one teaspoon
• Warm coconut oil – two tablespoons

Directions:

Mix the coconut oil and lemon juice well. Start massaging onto the scalp and leave it on for an hour. Later wrap the hair in one warm towel and wash off after twenty minutes with a mild shampoo.

Method 2:

Get these:

• Fresh lemon juice – one tablespoon
• Witch hazel oil – one tablespoon

Directions:

Just combine the two ingredients and warm the mixture slightly on indirect heat. Begin applying on the scalp and massage gently in circular motion. Rinse it after thirty minutes with water along with a mild shampoo. Try this home cure frequently to eliminate dandruff completely.

10. Home Remedies For Dandruff – Onion

Onion juice is a perfect solution to fight against dandruff because it comes with antibacterial properties. It gets rid of the problem of dandruff by restricting the growth of bacteria causing dandruff. It also removes the white flakes on your scalp. Apart from that, it is also excellent for nourishing and strengthening the hair roots. Other than that, it promotes the blood circulation in the scalp.

Method 1:

Get these:

• One onion
• A blender

Directions:

Firstly, take the onion and cut it into pieces. Then, blend them and massage the onion juice into the scalp. Finally, rinse it off after 30 minutes by using a mild shampoo.

Method 2:

Get these:

• Fenugreek seeds – two tablespoons
• Onion juice – two tablespoons

Directions:

Get the fenugreek seeds and soak them in water overnight. Grind these seeds into a fine paste and in the morning, mix with onion juice. Start applying this paste on your scalp and after thirty minutes, remove the paste. Follow this treatment once or twice in a week.

11. Home Remedies For Dandruff – Basil Leaves

You should not ignore basil leaves if you are seeking for the best home remedies for dandruff in adults. They comprise a myriad number of anti-fungal and antibacterial agents which are helpful for stopping the growth of dandruff.

Get these:

• Basil leaves – 5 twigs
• Amla powder – one tablespoon

Directions:

Mix the amla powder and basil leaves well to attain a nice fine paste. Start applying this nutritive mixture onto the scalp. Wait for 30 minutes before rinsing your hair with fresh water.

12. Home Remedies For Dandruff – Fuller’s Earth

The main causes of the dandruff problem are the accumulation of oil, grease, and dirt on the scalp. Using fuller’s earth can keep your scalp clean and cure scalp issues such as dry and itchy scalp. It helps eliminate the excess oil from your scalp and promote the blood circulation. Besides, it offers a soothing effect and decreases the irritation of your scalp.

Get these:

• Fuller’s earth – ½ cup
• Lemon juice – one tablespoon
• Water – ¼ cup
• A hairbrush

Directions:

Take the fuller’s earth in one bowl and add the lemon juice together with water to it. Mix well to create a paste and apply it on the scalp with a hairbrush. Wash your hair with after 20-25 minutes with shampoo along with warm water. Use this remedy once weekly to eliminate dandruff.

13. Home Remedies For Dandruff – Castor Oil

Castor oil is high in ricinoleic acid that acts as an excellent fungicidal and antimicrobial agent. Therefore, it battles fungal infections of Malassezia & scalp infections such as seborrheic dermatitis to ease dandruff. Furthermore, the omega-9 fatty acids of castor oil work as a humectant, which moisturizes the hair and scalp and battle dryness and dandruff. Apart from that, the vitamin E, omega-6 fatty acids, and minerals present in castor oil are excellent for reducing itchiness that is caused due to dandruff.

Method 1:

Get these:

• Castor oil – 1 ½ tablespoon
• Aloe vera gel – three tablespoons
• Tea tree oil – 2 to 3 drops

Directions:

In a bowl, mix the aloe vera gel, tea tree oil, and castor oil. Start to apply this solution all over the scalp and wash off after 45 minutes with a herbal shampoo. Use this routine thrice in a week. Method 2:

Get these:

• Castor oil – one tablespoon
• Almond oil – one tablespoon
• Rosemary oil – two to three drops

Directions:

In a glass bowl, mix the two oils and later heat the mixture in a microwave for several seconds. To it, add the rosemary oil and apply b the mixture all over the scalp and hair. Leave it on overnight and in the morning, rinse it off. Follow this treatment three times a week.

B. Home Remedies For Dandruff In Kids

Natural remedies are perfect for resolving dandruff in kids and protecting the scalp from itching. Below are some of the best home remedies for dandruff in kids:

14. Home Remedies For Dandruff – Aloe Vera Juice

You can use aloe vera extract to soothe the scalp and treat dandruff in kids. Your kid sometimes may scratch his or her head that could damage the scalp. Therefore, aloe vera can help heal wounds and decrease inflammation. For this treatment, extract the gel from an aloe vera leaf and juice the extract afterward. Apply the juice to the scalp and after ten minutes, wash off the hair of your kid with lukewarm water.

15. Home Remedies For Dandruff – Butter Or Mayonnaise

Butter is an ideal remedy for dandruff treatment in kids. It can moisturize the hair and give a lustrous look. For this purpose, take a proper amount of butter and rub it on the scalp of your kid. Cover the head by using one shower cap and after an hour rinse it off by using plain water.

16. Home Remedies For Dandruff – Eggs

Eggs are considered as one of the excellent home remedies for dandruff in kids. They make the hair & scalp healthier. For dandruff removal, beat an egg and mix well. Then, apply the mixture to your kid’s wet hair and allow it to stay for some time. Finally, wash it off with cold water and hot water respectively.

17. Home Remedies For Dandruff – Bergamot Essential Oil

This oil contains an excellent aroma and gives a brilliant fragrance to the hair of your kid. It works wonders in reducing dandruff in kids. Just add several drops of bergamot essential oil to shampoo and wash your hair’s kid with this solution.

18. Home Remedies For Dandruff – Apple

Apples own an enzyme, phenolase, which reduces the cell turnover rate. Thus, the dandruff accumulation is reduced. Take an apple and mash it. Add 2 tbsp of warm water to the paste. Start applying it to the scalp and gently massage for some time. Rinse off the hair after 15 minutes.

19. Home Remedies For Dandruff – Tea Tree Oil

Tea tree oil is another way to get rid of dandruff in kids. Take some drops of tea tree oil and mix it in the anti-dandruff shampoo of your kids. While rinsing the hair, be careful because it may harm the eyes.

20. Home Remedies For Dandruff – Lemon Juice

Because it is a great exfoliant, lemon juice not only prevents dandruff but also rids the scalp of the dead skin cells. For this remedy, extract the juice of several lemons and later mix with water. Then, massage the diluted juice on your kid’s scalp. Wash off the scalp after ten minutes and comb the hair.

21. Home Remedies For Dandruff – Baking Soda

Baking soda is a powerful antifungal property, which assists in battling dandruff. Mix the baking soda and water in enough amounts to create a paste. After that, apply the resultant paste to the scalp and after wash off your little one’s hair properly after some time.

22. Home Remedies For Dandruff – Yogurt

Mix one tablespoon of plain Greek yogurt, four tablespoons of carrier oil and half a mashed banana to make a hair mask. Massage this hair mask into your little one’s scalp for 5 minutes and wait for an additional fifteen minutes before shampooing.

C. Home Remedies For Dandruff During Pregnancy

Below are some of the most effective home remedies for dandruff during pregnancy:

23. Home Remedies For Dandruff – Apple Cider Vinegar

ACV is an ideal cure for treating dandruff during pregnancy. It holds antibacterial and anti-inflammatory compounds, which can fade away the fungus related to dandruff. You mix two parts of warm water with one part of ACV. Then, shampoo your hair and apply the mixture to it. Massage gently and rinse with warm water after 45 minutes.

24. Home Remedies For Dandruff – Aloe Vera

Aloe vera will help to eliminate dandruff from the hair because it consists of natural anti-fungal abilities.  It additionally moisturizes and soothes the hair. Directly apply aloe vera to your scalp and let it remain for a few minutes. Finally, shampoo out by using an oil infused shampoo.

25. Home Remedies For Dandruff – Use Lemon

For this treatment, use raw lemon and later rub it in the scalp. Keep the application on for ten minutes and wash it thoroughly. Follow this remedy daily or twice weekly to combat dandruff completely.

26. Home Remedies For Dandruff –Argan Oil And Garlic

Garlic aids in increasing blood flow to your scalp and removing impurities and toxins that clog the scalp. Make an argan oil and garlic serum to apply to your hair after shampooing. You take some finely chopped garlic and add it to a little argan oil in one container. Apply to your hair and scalp on a nightly basis. You can also leave the serum to stay for about 45 minutes and shampoo your hair.

IV. Diet Tips For Dandruff

Some people suffer from the problem of dandruff due to nutritional deficiencies in their diets. Below is some dietary advice to help fight dandruff:

• Ensure that your diet consists of high amount of foods high in zinc, vitamin B, and omega-3 fatty acids.
• Choose fresh sources of vegetables and fruits, instead of the canned or frozen varieties.
• Add fresh herbs to your food to enhance its flavor instead of using pungent and strong spices.
• Increase your consumption of raw food, such as nuts, fresh fruits, vegetables, and cereals because these foods can accelerate the resistance to problems such as dandruff.
• Avoid using alcohol and eating candies, baked items, refined flour, condiments pickles, and salty snacks.
• Reduce your intake of oil, red meat, sweets, strong tea, coffee, junk and processed foods.

V. Tips To Prevent Dandruff

• Before a hair wash, brushing out a dandruff-affected scalp can help reduce dandruff.
• Have adequate rest because stress and lack of proper sleep can increase the risk of dandruff.
• Don’t expose the hair to the sun because the harmful UV rays can dry your hair out.
• Use herbal products to get rid of dandruff since most of the hair products in the market may have harmful parabens, silicones, and sulfates.
• Never share your hair brushes and combs. Clean them frequently and keep in a tidy and neat place.

VI. When To See A Doctor?

Generally speaking, most cases of dandruff do not need a doctor’s care. But if OTC dandruff shampoos don’t work or if your scalp becomes swollen or red, see your doctor or dermatologist right away. You can have seborrheic dermatitis or other conditions that resemble dandruff.

These home remedies for dandruff are likely safe if followed correctly. Follow them regularly to achieve the desired results. Also, share with other readers and us if you know other home remedies for dandruff in adults, kids and during pregnancy. All of the contents provided in this article are for informational & educational purposes. We recommend you consult a healthcare professional to determine which method is appropriate for you.

• DIY hair care
• Scalp issues