The dandruff , seborrhea or seborrheic dermatitis is a very common skin condition in our country, which affects the local rich in sebaceous glands. People with this problem develop an inflammation of the skin that can be identified by the presence of yellowish-white peeling and excessive oiliness. It is frequent, especially on the scalp, but it can appear behind the ears, eyebrows, around the nose and in the chest area.
Women who have long, dark hair observe the appearance of numerous white dots adhered to the strands, but the problem is more frequent in men. Other symptoms are isolated itching and red, scaly plaques. Visit this link to gain more ideas: best natural dandruff shampoo
Dandruff treatment is done with shampoos and local lotions, but it may be necessary to use oral medication in cases where the lesions become infected, for example. Some doctors use supplements that have functions such as balancing the flora of the scalp, among others. However, numerous posts and videos on the internet teach about the use of a range of substances with promises of dandruff control.
1 - Honey
Honey has moisturizing and antibacterial properties. When used on the scalp, before shampooing, it can help to restore the skin barrier, which is affected by dandruff, and facilitates the removal of scales and plaques, without damaging the region. The recommendation is that the honey should not be allowed to dry on the scalp: contact with the product should be made for a maximum of 30 minutes before cleaning.
2 - Vinegar (white and apple)
Vinegar is acetic acid, a mild acid, which has the property of acidifying the local pH. This helps to contain the proliferation of fungi and can improve the local oiliness. It has an astringent effect and aids in the removal of chemical substances that may be attached to the strands, in addition to closing cuticles. It is recommended to use it diluted in water, in the proportion of 1 part of vinegar to 3 parts of water.
3 - Coconut oil
It is rich in medium chain saturated fatty acids, such as lauric, capric, caprylic, myristic and palmitic. The lauric represents 40% of the fats in coconut oil and has antimicrobial properties. In addition to them, we have unsaturated fatty acids such as linoleic and oleic acids and polyphenols, which impart the characteristic aroma to coconut, vitamins E, K and iron. From the point of view of topical use, on the scalp, it is a good humectant and, like honey, it can help a lot to remove crusts, improve inflammation and the skin barrier, in addition to having an antimicrobial effect.
4 - Baking soda
Sodium bicarbonate has exfoliating functions, that is, it can reduce the adhesion of scales to hair and scalp and can be used for this purpose. However, the very basic nature of the product (high pH, alkaline) could damage the strands, so it is something I do not recommend for women with long hair or who have undergone chemical treatments, as this can lead to excessive hair dryness. The product should be dissolved in a 100 ml glass and used on the scalp for 5-10 minutes before shampoo.
5 - Lemon juice
Lemon juice is rich in ascorbic acid, vitamin C, and also has properties similar to vinegar. It must be used in the same way, diluted in water and before washing.
Here I make a known warning, but fundamental: Whenever you mix with lemon, remember to wash your hands and skin VERY well and avoid sun exposure afterwards. Lemon juice in contact with the skin, when exposed to the sun, can lead to severe burns and blemishes!
6 - Aspirin
Aspirin is made from acetyl salicylic acid (AAS). Not by chance, several of the dandruff products are formulated with salicylic acid, a substance very similar chemically. The fundamental difference between the two is that AAS is an acid ester and was designed to protect our stomach from the harms of acid, but it also makes it less efficient. Among the properties of salicylic acid are its anti-inflammatory, antifungal, antibacterial and exfoliating properties.