Dandruff can affect anyone. It can occur in certain parts of the head or the entire scalp. Dandruff is itchy, irritating, and can impact an individual’s confidence level. The good news is that dandruff can be managed at home with simple ingredients. Home remedies for dandruff can be so effective that you don’t need to splurge on costly shampoos and other hair care products. Below, we’ve listed some effective home remedies to cure dandruff quickly.

1. Apple cider vinegar
Known for various health benefits, apple cider vinegar can also help you get rid of dandruff. Its high acidity balances the pH of the skin, reducing the growth of fungus responsible for dandruff. It’s also believed that apple cider vinegar encourages the shedding of dead skin cells on the scalp. To use this ingredient, dilute it with equal parts of water and apply it to the scalp. Let the mixture sit for 5-10 minutes before rinsing it out with regular water.

2. Tea tree oil
Tea tree oil is one of the best home remedies for dandruff, as its powerful anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties can destroy and prevent microorganism growth that triggers dandruff. Studies have also found that compounds in tea tree oil specifically target strain of fungus linked to both seborrheic dermatitis and dandruff. Applying the oil directly to the scalp can cause irritation, so dilute it with a carrier oil like coconut. You can even add a few drops of tea tree oil to your regular shampoo.

3. Baking soda
Baking soda acts as an exfoliator on the scalp and helps remove excess dead skin cells and oil from the scalp. Plus, its mild anti-fungal properties prevent the growth of fungus that causes dandruff. It’s best to apply baking soda directly to wet hair and massage it into the scalp. Let the mixture rest for a few minutes before rinsing with water. Avoid using this remedy too often, as baking soda’s high pH level can damage the scalp.

4. Aloe vera
The gel from the leaves of the aloe vera plant is not only skin-healthy but also can help treat dandruff. It has both anti-fungal and anti-bacterial properties that reduce fungus on the scalp and keep dandruff at bay. It also has anti-inflammatory properties that can soothe an itchy scalp caused by dandruff. For best results, use fresh aloe vera gel straight from the leaves. Apply it all over your scalp or leave it on for about 30 minutes before rinsing.

5. Coconut oil
Coconut oil has long been used to treat a variety of skin problems, including dandruff. It keeps dandruff from worsening by improving the hydration levels of the scalp. Skin conditions like atopic dermatitis (eczema) can contribute to dandruff, and coconut oil has proven to fight off this condition. The oil is also anti-inflammatory, so it’s soothing for the scalp. Take two tablespoons of oil and gently massage it directly into your scalp. Leave it on for a couple of hours before washing it off with shampoo.