Home Remedies for Flaky Scalp

Home remedies for a flaky scalp are extremely effective, inexpensive and environmentally friendly. The options below cover a wide range of products, so there is a good chance you already have some of the ingredients in your kitchen or bathroom.

Apple Cider Vinegar

Apple cider vinegar is derived from fermented apples and is the only vinegar that is not distilled. As a result, it contains important nutrients and alpha hydroxy acids. Apple cider vinegar clarifies the scalp and removes dead skin cells that clog hair follicles and cause flakes. Dilute 1 c. of apple cider vinegar in 1 c. of pure water and pour it over your head to saturate the scalp. Use this rinse once a week for a flake-free scalp.

Witch Hazel

Witch hazel is a natural astringent used to heal damaged skin and soothe irritation. An irritated scalp causes inflamed skin that sheds in the form of flakes. Witch hazel is also a natural cleanser and can clear away the bacteria of dead skin cells. Apply witch hazel with a cotton ball to remove flakes and refine hair follicles to prevent future flakes.

Baking Soda

Baking soda is a cleaning detergent and odor remover. It is used for everything from cleaning laundry to relieving heartburn. Baking soda also can clean your hair and scalp and remove scalp flakes. Apply moistened baking soda to your scalp and hair to remove dead skin cells and built-up hair products. Shampoo your hair after rinsing out the baking soda with warm water.

Olive Oil

Ancient Greeks used olive oil to cleanse and moisturize the skin. Olive oil is a common natural remedy for dandruff. It clarifies the skin because it contains oleic acid. It also moisturizes skin and increases permeability. Apply olive oil to your scalp before you go to bed and cover your head with a shower cap. Wash your hair in the morning and your scalp will feel smooth and flake-free.

Tea Tree Oil

Tea tree oil is a natural antiseptic that originated in Australia. The unique feature of tea tree oil is that it becomes more potent at the site of infection. Dead skin cells that cause flakes are full of bacteria and infectious agents. Tea tree oil helps clear the bacteria that leaves unsightly flakes on your scalp. Add 1 tsp. of tea tree oil to your normal shampoo to prevent and treat scalp flakes.

Aloe Vera

Aloe vera gel helps heal the scalp and prevent scalp flakes. Aloe is a common remedy for healing and moisturizing damaged skin. Apply aloe vera gel to your scalp before you go to bed and cover your head with a shower cap. Wash your hair as usual in the morning.

References

• Apple Cider Vinegar to Claify the Scalp
• Janice Cox, " Natural Beauty at Home," 1994
• Reader's Digest, "Great Health Hints & Handy Tips," 1994

Resources

• Healthy Hair