You Will Need
Coconut oil 1 teaspoon of lime juice 6 teaspoons of water Cotton ball
Directions Note: Lime juice can cause irritation if not diluted. If it itches even after diluting, wash it off immediately and apply another coat of coconut oil.
2. Aloe Vera And Neem
Aloe vera decreases itching, scaling, and the areas affected by dandruff, while neem has antibacterial and antifungal properties (2), (3). When used in combination, they make for an excellent DIY mask to get rid of dandruff in winter. You Will Need
2 tablespoons of aloe vera gel 10-15 fresh neem leaves
Directions
3. Apple Cider And Fenugreek
Apple cider vinegar has a low pH (acidic pH), which prevents growth of the fungus. It also helps cleanse the scalp. The high protein content and nicotinic acid in fenugreek seeds help strengthen the hair roots and prevent dandruff (4). You Will Need
2 tablespoons of fenugreek seeds ½ teaspoon of apple cider vinegar
Directions
4. Tea Tree Oil And Almond Oil
The antifungal properties of tea tree oil and nourishing properties of almond oil makes this concoction perfect for removing dandruff and treating dry and itchy scalp (5), (6). You Will Need
2 drops of tea tree oil 50 ml of almond oil
Directions Note: Tea tree oil must be diluted before using, as it can irritate the skin. If you have a sensitive scalp, avoid using tea tree oil.
5. Green Tea And Orange Juice
Green tea treats dandruff by reducing excess sebum production in the scalp (7). The acidic pH and vitamin C content of orange juice makes it a good combination to get rid of winter dandruff. You Will Need
4 tablespoons of green tea 2 tablespoons of orange juice
Directions These are the home remedies to get rid of dandruff in winter. There are other tricks that can help eliminate winter dandruff quickly. Here’s what you can do.
Other Effective Ways To Get Rid Of Winter Dandruff
Use An Anti-Dandruff Shampoo
Anti-dandruff shampoos contain selenium sulfide, coal tar, zinc pyrithione, or ketoconazole (8). These ingredients help remove dandruff and prevent fungal growth on the scalp. Use an anti-dandruff shampoo twice a week for at least four weeks for visible results. However, do not overuse these shampoos as this can prompt dandruff regrowth.
Avoid Scratching
Dry scalp with dandruff is really itchy, and scratching your scalp will only make it worse. The flakes fall on your shoulders and make your hair dirty. Press your index finger on the scalp to control the urge to itch.
Avoid Using Hot Water
Winters can prompt you to use hot water to wash your hair. But using hot/warm water will make your hair frizzy and dry out the scalp. This becomes an ideal environment for dandruff growth. Hence, use lukewarm water for your shower.
Massage Oil Before Shampooing
Massage coconut or almond oils every time you shampoo your hair. This helps hydrate the strands and nourish the hair roots. It improves blood circulation to the scalp and fights dandruff.
Avoid Styling Products With Alcohol
Any hairstyling product, such as hairspray, dry shampoo, or mousse, may contain alcohol, which dries out the scalp and makes dandruff worse. Thus, avoid hairstyling products with alcohol.
Clean Your Hair Brush
Clean your hair brush twice a week. You do not want to transfer dandruff from the hair brush to your clean scalp. That’s why it is essential to clean your hair brush every time you shampoo.
Do Not Tie Wet Hair
Tying wet hair creates a humid environment for dandruff growth. Use a blow dryer on the warm setting to dry your hair during winters. You can also wear a scarf, muffler, or hoodie to keep your hair protected from the cold.
De-stress Your Mind
Stress increases the cortisol level of your body, which affects scalp health. Set aside time to de-stress yourself. You may workout, take a walk, run, read, write, listen to music, or meditate.
Maintain A Healthy Diet
You must also boost your scalp health from the inside. Consume foods that help reduce inflammation, such as omega-3-rich fish (mackerel, salmon, tuna, etc.), nuts, and seeds. Include protein-rich foods like legumes, eggs, mushrooms, and soy in your diet. Consume green leafy veggies and fruits for vitamins, minerals, and fiber. Incorporate these habits to keep dandruff at bay during winters and improve the health of your hair, skin, and nails. How do you prevent dry scalp in the winter? Massage your scalp with coconut or almond oils twice a week to prevent dryness. You can get a hair spa treatment once a month. Also, drink 2-3 liters of water daily. Why does my dandruff get worse in winter? The cold and dry weather during the winter season triggers dandruff. The best way to control it is to massage oil onto your scalp, use DIY hair masks, eat healthy, and stay stress-free.
