6 Home Remedies to Get Rid of Dandruff Permanently
Discover Natural Remedies for Dandruff-Free, Healthy Scalp: Tea Tree Oil to Yogurt and Lemon Mask
Tea Tree Oil — Nature’s Anti-Fungal Powerhouse
Apple Cider Vinegar — Restores Scalp pH Balance
Coconut Oil — Deep Moisture and Protection
Aloe Vera — Soothes Itching and Redness
Baking Soda — The Quick Exfoliator
Yogurt and Lemon Mask — Natural Antifungal Combo
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Few things are more frustrating than seeing those tiny white flakes on your shoulders — especially after wearing black.
Dandruff, medically known as seborrheic dermatitis or dry scalp flaking, affects nearly half of the world’s population at some point.
While most people reach for expensive shampoos, many overlook simple, natural home remedies that can clear dandruff effectively and keep your scalp healthy for good.
If you’re tired of the constant itch, flakes, and scalp irritation, these six home remedies can help you get rid of dandruff — naturally and permanently.
1. Tea Tree Oil — Nature’s Anti-Fungal Powerhouse
Tea tree oil is one of the most effective natural remedies for dandruff.
Why it works:
It has antifungal and antibacterial properties that help control Malassezia, the yeast-like fungus that contributes to dandruff. It also soothes irritation and reduces scalp inflammation.
Science says:
A study in the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology found that using a 5% tea tree oil shampoo reduced dandruff severity by 41% after just four weeks.
How to use it:
Add 5 drops of tea tree oil to 2 tablespoons of coconut or olive oil.
Massage into your scalp for 5–10 minutes.
Leave it on for at least 30 minutes (or overnight), then rinse and shampoo as usual.
Pro tip:
If you have sensitive skin, dilute tea tree oil further or do a patch test before use.
2. Apple Cider Vinegar — Restores Scalp pH Balance
Apple cider vinegar (ACV) is another powerful dandruff fighter — and you probably already have it in your kitchen.
Why it works:
ACV helps balance scalp pH, reduce fungal growth, and remove product buildup that clogs hair follicles.
Science says:
Its acetic acid content has mild antimicrobial effects that create an environment unfriendly to dandruff-causing fungi.
How to use it:
Mix equal parts apple cider vinegar and water.
Apply to your scalp after shampooing.
Leave for 10–15 minutes, then rinse thoroughly.
Pro tip:
Use ACV only 2–3 times a week — overuse can dry out your scalp.
3. Coconut Oil — Deep Moisture and Protection
Coconut oil is one of the best natural moisturizers for both skin and scalp.
Why it works:
It contains lauric acid, which has antimicrobial properties that prevent fungal overgrowth while nourishing the scalp to prevent dryness and flaking.
Science says:
A Biomolecules study confirmed that coconut oil reduces inflammation and promotes scalp barrier repair, helping maintain long-term scalp health.
How to use it:
Warm 2 tablespoons of coconut oil until it becomes liquid.
Massage gently into the scalp.
Leave for at least 30 minutes or overnight before shampooing.
Pro tip:
Use organic, cold-pressed coconut oil for the best results.
4. Aloe Vera — Soothes Itching and Redness
Aloe vera is known for its cooling and healing properties — and it’s perfect for calming an irritated scalp.
Why it works:
It contains enzymes and amino acids that moisturize the scalp, reduce itching, and fight inflammation.
Science says:
According to research published in Phytotherapy Research, aloe vera exhibits antibacterial and antifungal activity that reduces dandruff-related scalp issues.
How to use it:
Extract fresh aloe vera gel from a leaf.
Apply directly to the scalp and massage.
Leave for 20–30 minutes, then rinse with mild shampoo.
Pro tip:
Store leftover aloe gel in the fridge for up to a week for repeat use.
5. Baking Soda — The Quick Exfoliator
Baking soda is a simple but effective way to remove flakes and balance scalp oil.
Why it works:
It exfoliates dead skin cells and absorbs excess oil — both of which contribute to dandruff buildup.
Science says:
Though it lacks extensive clinical trials, anecdotal evidence shows that regular use helps control oily scalp conditions, a common cause of dandruff.
How to use it:
Mix 1 tablespoon of baking soda with water to make a paste.
Gently rub onto your scalp for 1–2 minutes.
Rinse thoroughly and skip shampoo afterward.
Pro tip:
Use it once a week — overuse can strip natural oils and cause dryness.
6. Yogurt and Lemon Mask — Natural Antifungal Combo
This classic home remedy combines probiotics and vitamin C for scalp health.
Why it works:
Yogurt’s healthy bacteria restore the scalp’s microbiome, while lemon juice reduces oil and fights fungal growth.
Science says:
The combination of lactic acid (from yogurt) and citric acid (from lemon) helps maintain an acidic environment, which deters dandruff-causing microorganisms.
How to use it:
Mix ½ cup of plain yogurt with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice.
Apply the mask evenly to your scalp.
Leave for 20 minutes, then rinse with lukewarm water.
Pro tip:
Use this treatment once a week for lasting results.