Dandruff is a scalp disorder, not just a cosmetic problem. It’s the result of abnormal shedding of scalp skin caused by an imbalance in oil, microbes, and immune response. If you only wash flakes away, they’ll come back. To stop dandruff permanently, you must understand and fix the real reasons behind it.

The scalp naturally produces sebum (oil).

Malassezia is a yeast that feeds on this oil and breaks it into fatty acids.

For some people, this causes inflammation, itching, and flaking.

Fix: Restore scalp pH, reduce oil imbalance, use antifungal treatments.

A chronic inflammatory skin condition

Causes greasy, yellow flakes and redness

Mostly affects oily skin types

Fix: Scalp exfoliation, anti-inflammatory herbs, stress control

Hair styling gels, dry shampoo, hard water minerals — all can clog pores

Leads to dead skin accumulation and itching

Fix: Weekly scalp detox and gentle cleansing

Cold air + hot showers strip natural oils

Skin dries out, tightens, and flakes

Fix: Humidifier use, deep moisturizing, natural oils

Some oils (like mustard or mineral oil) trap heat or feed fungus

Leaving oil for 2+ days attracts dirt & yeast growth

Fix: Use light, antifungal oils and wash within 8–12 hours

Infrequent washing = sebum + dirt = fungal growth

Over-washing = dry scalp + irritation

Fix: Wash hair 2–3 times a week based on oil leve

Especially Zinc, Vitamin B6, Biotin, and Omega-3

These nutrients regulate oil and skin cell turnover

Fix: Nutrient-rich foods + optional supplement

Cortisol (stress hormone) weakens skin barrier

Triggers flare-ups of dandruff and inflammation

Fix: Meditation, yoga, 7–8 hrs of sleep

Can alter oil gland activity

Especially seen in teenagers or postpartum women

Fix: Medical diagnosis + internal balancing

Poor digestion or bad gut bacteria affect skin

Can lead to scalp inflammation and flakiness

Fix: Probiotic foods, fiber, digestion suppor

Why: Reduces inflammation & fungal activity at the root
How: Boil 1 tsp licorice in ½ cup coconut milk. Cool and apply.
⏱️ Leave for 30 min → rinse with sulfate-free shampoo
📅 Use: 2x/week

Why: Anti-itch, antibacterial, and calming for sensitive scalp
How: Crush fresh tulsi + mint, mix with aloe gel
⏱️ Apply 20–30 mins before washing
📅 Use: Alternate days during dandruff flare-up

Why: Rosemary improves circulation and reduces oil clogging
How: Boil fresh rosemary, cool, rinse scalp post-shampoo
📅 Use: 2x/week

Why: Antimicrobial + balances scalp oil secretion
How: Mix 1 tsp onion juice + 1 tsp kalonji oil
⏱️ Apply 15 mins, then rinse
📅 Use: 1x/week

Why: Soothes itching, absorbs oil, anti-inflammatory
How: Blend oats in water, strain, apply liquid to scalp
⏱️ Leave for 20 mins
📅 Use: When scalp is irritated or dry

Why: Ancient Ayurvedic blend (Amla, Haritaki, Bibhitaki) detoxes scalp
How: Mix powder with rose water or curd
⏱️ Apply as a mask, leave for 40 mins
📅 Use: Weekly

Why: Detoxes, absorbs dirt/oil, restores pH
How: Mix 2 tbsp clay + 1 tsp ACV + water
⏱️ Apply, wait till dry, rinse
📅 Use: Weekly

Why: Rich in probiotics and antifungal phytonutrients
How: Mix ½ cup yogurt + 10 crushed curry leaves
⏱️ Apply for 30 mins
📅 Use: Weekly

Why: Ginger improves circulation, reduces microbial buildup
How: Mix and spray on scalp before wash
📅 Use: 2–3x/week

Ingredients: Cucumber + mint + ginger + amla + lemon
Why: Cleanses liver, supports skin repair from within
📅 Use: Empty stomach daily for 2–3 weeks

🥗 Dandruff-Fighting Diet: What to Eat & Avoid

✅ Shampoo 2–3x/week
✅ Use lukewarm, not hot water
✅ Never leave oil more than 12 hours
✅ Use a wooden comb (plastic causes friction)
✅ Change pillowcases often
✅ Avoid product layering (gel + spray + serum)

FAQs

❓ Can dandruff be cured permanently?

Yes, if you eliminate causes like fungal imbalance, poor hygiene, and nutrient deficiencies.

❓ Which oil is best?

Cold-pressed coconut, kalonji, and rosemary oil are best for dandruff.

❓ Should I oil my hair?

Yes, but only for 1–2 hours before washing. Never leave oil for days.