Dandruff (also called Pityriasis Capitis) affects millions of people globally and can be defined as a flaking scalp caused by abnormally dry or oily conditions on the scalp. Coconut oil has proven effective at managing symptoms associated with Dandruff. One effective home remedy to address this condition is applying coconut oil regularly on one’s hair before shampooing.
Coconut Oil comes up with essential fats, vitamins, and minerals that nourish your scalp while helping remove excess sebum production. Coconut Oil has long been recognized as an antibacterial product with penetrating and moisturizing abilities; we will continue reading about how coconut oil can combat Dandruff.
Reason Behind Causes Dandruff?
Before delving into how to use coconut oil for Dandruff, let’s examine its source. Many things can cause Dandruff; poor hygiene should not be included as one.
Malassezia may be one of the causes. While this fungus is harmless and beneficial to skin health, too much Malassezia on your scalp could result in Dandruff and an itchy, dry scalp, leading to itchy, flaky dandruff patches. Seborrheic Dermatitis (SD) is another cause of Dandruff. You can quickly identify it by oilier-looking Dandruff with a yellow hue, which may worsen if not often washed enough or overusing oil products on your hair. SD can worsen with infrequent washings or excessive oil products.
See also: Health Benefits of Unrefined Coconut Oil
Is it effective what studies say?
Coconut oil has been mainly known for its antimicrobial properties for a long time. Studies have demonstrated its efficacy against Malassezia scalp fungus and seborrheic skin dermatitis simultaneously, helping treat both. Furthermore, coconut oil may help soothe itchy scalp issues while treating Dandruff.
Recent reports revealed that coconut oil helps maintain healthy bacteria and fungal levels on your scalp, making it an effective natural remedy against Dandruff or itchy scalp conditions – and conveniently available.
Know How To Use Coconut Oil For Dandruff?
Coconut oil is an effective natural remedy for Dandruff due to its antifungal and moisturizing properties. Here’s how you can use coconut oil to help manage Dandruff:
- Choose high-quality coconut oil: Look for organic, cold-pressed, and unrefined varieties to ensure it retains its beneficial properties.
- Heat Coconut Oil: Gently warm a few tablespoons of coconut oil by placing its jar in hot water or heating it in the microwave, taking care not to overheat the oil.
- Part Your Hair: Using either a comb or your fingers, part your hair carefully along the scalp where there may be Dandruff. This will reveal areas for treatment.
- Apply Coconut Oil: Take a small amount of warm coconut oil and begin massaging it onto your scalp with your fingertips, paying particular attention to any areas with Dandruff but covering all parts.
- Massage the Scalp: When massaging coconut oil onto your scalp, gently circular motions stimulate blood circulation and promote its absorption into your system. This will also increase its effectiveness for stimulating overall hair health and growth.
- Leave it On. If you want the maximum benefits, leave coconut oil on for at least 30 minutes or overnight – covering your head with a shower cap or towel to prevent oil from getting onto your pillow is recommended to prevent spillage.
- Rinse and Shampoo: After waiting for the appropriate timeframe, use a mild, sulfate-free shampoo to thoroughly rinse and cleanse your locks of all oil from them. Shampoo twice to eliminate it.
- Repeat regularly: For optimal results, repeat this process two to three times every week. Consistency is critical when managing Dandruff effectively.
See also: Oil Pulling with Coconut Oil
Additional tips:
- Before applying coconut oil to your scalp, it’s wise to perform a patch test if you have sensitive skin or allergies.
- Some individuals find that mixing tea tree oil with coconut oil enhances its antifungal properties. However, tea tree oil can sometimes cause skin irritation, so use it with caution if you have sensitive skin.
- Maintaining good overall scalp hygiene, eating a well-balanced diet, and managing stress levels are also effective means of decreasing dandruff levels.
Conclusion
Everybody’s skin and hair are different, so what works for one may not work for another. Before trying anything new on your Dandruff, always check the patch test to ensure no allergic reactions from any oils in the product. If Dandruff persists or worsens further, consult a healthcare professional or dermatologist.