How to Get Rid of Dandruff

Dandruff and dry scalp have the same symptoms—flaking and an itchy scalp—but they are different conditions. Dry scalp can be triggered by a reaction to hair products or cold, dry air. Dandruff happens when there is too much oil on the scalp, causing skin cells to build up and shed. Knowing which condition you have can help you get the right treatment.

Step 1

Exfoliate Your scalp is skin, too. Nearly everyone can benefit from an occasional scrub, but they’re especially helpful for people who experience dandruff, dryness or excess oil. Like the rest of your skin, it can get irritated, dry and flaky, especially in the winter. There are many scrubs and exfoliators specially designed to soothe the scalp and maintain a healthy balance so that the hair can flourish—because a healthy scalp equals healthier hair.

Step 2

Cleanse & treat To get rid of dandruff ASAP, dandruff-fighting treatments are the way to go. These come in all sorts of formulas that contain medicine that kills the fungus on your scalp or removes flaky skin, including shampoos, conditioners, masks and tonics. If you suffer from dry scalp rather than dandruff, try a cleansing conditioner or co-wash because they offer a gentler cleanse.

Natural alternatives Tackle your dry scalp and dandruff with home remedies that have stood the test of time. Wash hair thoroughly 15–60 minutes after applying treatment. 1. Coconut oil. Mix it with honey and yogurt and apply to damp or dry hair for a fatty-acid boost. 2. Castor oil. Mix enough to lightly coat hair with a few drops of an essential oil like lavender, jojoba or tea tree. 3. Tea tree oil. Mix a few drops of pure tea tree oil, an antifungal that helps soothe inflammation, into your shampoo or in a spray bottle with other essential oils. 4. Baking soda & apple cider vinegar. This anti-dandruff power couple teams up to remove dandruff and excess oil while soothing the scalp.