Dry scalp vs dandruff: Understand the difference for better haircare, 5 home remedies that can help

KEY STORY

• Hair adds to the aesthetics of a person’s appearance and the want for beautiful, shiny hair is universal. But with want comes the responsibility of caring for the hair which is often a difficult process because just like skin, the composition of hair is complex and requires a consistent and carefully structured haircare approach.

• There are various problems associated with hair problems. Some common problems include lice, hair fall, greying of hair, dandruff, and dry scalp. Several factors contribute to the issues, while some can be treated at home with care, some may require dermatological attention.

  Dry scalp: What is it? – Symptoms, causes

  The lack of moisture or lubrication in the skin can lead to a dry scalp. This moisture deficiency causes the skin to get flakey and irritated. Common symptoms of a dry scalp include small, dry flakes, itchiness in the scalp, and dry skin on other body parts. The causes and risk factors of the dry scalp may include ageing, exposure to cool and dry air, and contact dermatitis.

  Dry scalp – Home remedies

  Follow these home remedies to get rid of a dry scalp:

  1. Applying aloe vera in form of getting or raw can help get rid of dry scalp. Do not forget to wash the aloe vera if you are applying it raw.

  2. Application of olive oil and baking soda mixture can help eliminate dry scalp. You can apply this paste by mixing equal parts of the above-mentioned ingredients and leaving it on for five minutes before washing the hair thoroughly with shampoo.

  3. Apply jojoba oil, an effective conditioner, by mixing a few drops of it in your shampoo for a healthy scalp.

  4. Utilize the conditioning and moisturizing properties of banana to get rid of a dry scalp by mashing a banana and applying it on your scalp after adding few drops of olive or coconut oil.

  5. Apple cider vinegar is a miraculous ingredient and has several health benefits. Applying a mixture of apple cider vinegar and water (mixed in 1:2 ratio) on the scalp and leaving it on for five minutes before

  Dandruff: What is it? – Symptoms, causes

  The shedding of dead, flakey skin cells by the scalp leads to dandruff. The frequency of this shed determines the intensity and severity of dandruff. Common symptoms of dandruff include large flakes, oily scalp, greasy hair, and itchiness of the scalp. The risk factors and causes that contribute to the development of dandruff may include oil secretion by the scalp, skin reactions, and fungal infection.

  Dandruff – Home remedies

  Follow these home remedies to get rid of dandruff:

  1. Apply tea tree oil mixed with carrier oil on the scalp. This can help get rid of dandruff and it also has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.

  2. It’s easy to find coconut oil or nariyal ka tel in almost every Indian household. You can massage your head with pure coconut oil for anti-dandruff effects.

  3. Stress can contribute to the development of stress by aggravating itching and dryness of the scalp. Try stress minimising methods for healthier hair.

  4. The deficiency of Omega 3 fatty acids can contribute to dandruff, therefore, include foods such as seafood, nuts, and chia seeds in your diet to fulfil your body’s omega-3 requirements.

  5. Consuming foods Irish in probiotics such as yoghurt, tempeh, buttermilk, and kimchi can help reduce the severity of dandruff.

Disclaimer: Tips and suggestions mentioned in the article are for general information purpose only and should not be construed as professional medical advice. Always consult your doctor or a dietician before starting any fitness programme or making any changes to your diet.